Microsoft has officially entered the handheld gaming PC market with the announcement of the ROG Xbox Ally, developed in collaboration with ASUS’ ROG division. The device, set to release this holiday season, aims to provide gamers with a portable gaming experience that bridges the gap between console and PC gaming.
The ROG Xbox Ally comes in two variants: the standard model and the more powerful Xbox Ally X. Both devices are powered by AMD Ryzen processors, boast impressive RAM and storage capacities, and feature a range of connectivity options, including USB-C ports with support for DisplayPort 2.1 and Power Delivery 3.0.
One of the standout features of the ROG Xbox Ally is its ability to access a wide range of games, not limited to Xbox titles. Players can enjoy games from various PC storefronts, including Battle.net, and leverage Game Pass integration for a seamless gaming experience. The device also supports Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing gamers to sync their progress across different devices.
In a statement to The Verge, Roanne Sones, corporate vice president of gaming Devices and ecosystem at Xbox, highlighted the collaborative effort that went into developing the ROG Xbox Ally. The device represents a significant step in Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to optimize Windows for handheld gaming, with substantial improvements made to enhance the overall gaming experience.
With the rise of handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck, Microsoft’s entry into this market segment signals a strategic move to cater to the evolving needs of gamers who seek portability without compromising on performance. The ROG Xbox Ally’s ergonomic design, robust hardware specifications, and versatile gaming capabilities position it as a formidable contender in the handheld gaming space.
As the holiday season approaches, gaming enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing the ROG Xbox Ally firsthand and exploring the possibilities it offers for gaming on the go.
References:
1. Ars Technica – https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/microsoft-dives-into-the-handheld-gaming-pc-wars-with-the-asus-rog-xbox-ally/
2. Engadget
3. The Verge
4. WIRED
5. Slashdot – https://games.slashdot.org/story/25/06/08/2247235/microsoft-announces-upcoming-windows-powered-handheld-xbox-device-the-rog-xbox-ally?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed
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