ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X

The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X are Windows-based handheld gaming devices developed through a partnership between Microsoft and ASUS, announced at the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8, 2025, with a planned release for Holiday 2025. These devices aim to combine Xbox’s gaming ecosystem with the flexibility of Windows 11, optimized for handheld gaming. Here’s a detailed overview based on available information:

Key Features

Xbox Full-Screen Experience: Both devices boot directly into a console-like Xbox UI, streamlining the Windows 11 experience by minimizing desktop elements and focusing on gaming. The Xbox app and Game Bar provide quick access to games, settings, and performance metrics, addressing common complaints about Windows’ clunkiness on handhelds.

Game Compatibility: As Windows 11 devices, they support games from multiple PC storefronts, including Xbox, Steam, Epic Games Store, Battle.net, GOG, and more. Xbox Play Anywhere titles sync progress and achievements across Xbox consoles, PCs, and these handhelds. Cloud gaming via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and remote play from Xbox consoles are also supported.

Hardware Design: The handhelds feature contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers, with a familiar button layout (ABXY, D-pad, impulse triggers, and a dedicated Xbox button). The design prioritizes ergonomics, addressing the “flat finger problem” of earlier handhelds like the original ROG Ally.

Software Optimization: Microsoft has reworked Windows 11 to reduce background processes, saving around 2GB of memory in full-screen mode, improving power efficiency and performance. The integration of ASUS’s Armoury Crate SE allows unified game library management and customizable controls.

Specifications

ROG Xbox Ally:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 A
• Memory: 16GB LPDDR5X-6400
• Storage: 512GB SSD (upgradeable)
• Battery: 60Wh
• Display: 7-inch 1080p, 120Hz, FreeSync Premium, 500 nits
• Weight: 670g
• Gaming Performance: Targeted at 720p gaming

ROG Xbox Ally X:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme
• Memory: 24GB LPDDR5X-8000
• Storage: 1TB SSD (upgradeable, microSD slot available)
• Battery: 80Wh
• Display: Same as base model
• Weight: 715g
• Gaming Performance: Aimed at 900p-1080p gaming, with impulse triggers for enhanced haptics

Additional Details

Availability: Set to launch in select markets (e.g., US, UK, Canada, Japan, Australia) during Holiday 2025, with more markets to follow. Pricing and pre-order details are yet to be announced.