ASUS, in collaboration with Microsoft, has unveiled two groundbreaking handheld gaming devices: the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. These devices aim to merge the expansive libraries of Xbox, Battle.net, and other PC gaming platforms into a compact, powerful form factor, offering gamers a versatile and immersive experience.
Both the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X operate on a customized version of Windows 11 Home, specifically tailored for portable gaming. Upon startup, users are greeted with a full-screen Xbox interface optimized for controller-based navigation, delivering a console-like experience. This interface integrates the Xbox Game Bar and Armoury Crate, providing quick access to game libraries, system settings, and performance controls. A unified game library allows players to view and launch titles from various platforms, including Xbox, Game Pass (with a subscription), Battle.net, Steam, and Epic Games. With Xbox Play Anywhere support, users can enjoy over a thousand titles across Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, and these handhelds, maintaining synchronized achievements and save progress across devices.
In summary, the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X represent a significant advancement in portable gaming, combining powerful hardware with seamless integration of multiple gaming platforms. Their ergonomic design, advanced features, and optimized performance make them compelling options for gamers seeking a versatile and immersive handheld experience.
Source: TechloMedia ASUS ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X Announced: Portable Gaming Powerhouses with Windows 11
Seamless Integration with Windows 11
Both the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X operate on a customized version of Windows 11 Home, specifically tailored for portable gaming. Upon startup, users are greeted with a full-screen Xbox interface optimized for controller-based navigation, delivering a console-like experience. This interface integrates the Xbox Game Bar and Armoury Crate, providing quick access to game libraries, system settings, and performance controls. A unified game library allows players to view and launch titles from various platforms, including Xbox, Game Pass (with a subscription), Battle.net, Steam, and Epic Games. With Xbox Play Anywhere support, users can enjoy over a thousand titles across Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, and these handhelds, maintaining synchronized achievements and save progress across devices.Advanced Streaming and Accessibility Features
The ROG Xbox Ally series supports Xbox Cloud Gaming and Remote Play, enabling games to be streamed from the cloud or a user’s home console. Roblox comes pre-optimized for handheld play and runs natively on both models. A notable addition is the built-in assistant, Gaming Copilot, accessible through the Game Bar. This feature assists users in launching games, learning in-game skills, and staying connected with friends. Enhanced accessibility features, adapted from Xbox and Windows, make the gaming experience more inclusive. ASUS plans to introduce a developer program allowing game studios to mark their titles as optimized for the Xbox Ally series, similar to the compatibility tags used for Valve’s Steam Deck.Hardware Specifications
The ROG Xbox Ally is equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of LPDDR5X memory clocked at 6400MHz, and 512GB of storage. The more powerful ROG Xbox Ally X features an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of LPDDR5X memory running at 8000MHz, and 1TB of storage. Both devices boast a 7-inch Full HD (1080p) IPS display with 500 nits brightness and a 120Hz refresh rate. The screens support FreeSync Premium for tear-free gaming and are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus with DXC anti-reflective coating, enhancing visibility in bright environments.Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery capacity differs between the two models: the standard Ally has a 60Wh battery, while the Ally X packs a larger 80Wh unit, promising longer gaming sessions between charges. In terms of ports, the Xbox Ally offers two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports with DisplayPort 2.1 and Power Delivery 3.0, a UHS-II microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm combo audio jack. The Xbox Ally X includes one USB4 Type-C port and one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, along with the same microSD card slot but with added DDR200 support, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Both devices support Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4 for fast wireless connectivity.Ergonomics and Control
Comfort and control are key focuses for both models. The grip design draws inspiration from Xbox Wireless Controllers, providing a secure and comfortable hold during extended play sessions. The control layout includes ABXY buttons, a D-pad, full-size analog sticks, menu and view buttons, a Command Center button, assignable back buttons, and a dedicated Xbox button. The Xbox Ally features Hall Effect analog triggers, while the Xbox Ally X uses impulse triggers for enhanced tactile feedback. Both come with HD haptics and a 6-axis motion sensor for more immersive gameplay.Optimized Performance
ASUS has optimized the operating system and interface to reduce background activity, improving performance during gameplay. These devices are not just gaming consoles but full-fledged portable PCs, offering a balance between power and portability.Availability
The ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are set to launch during the upcoming holiday season. They will be available initially in key markets, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, India, and several others. ASUS also plans to expand availability to more regions where the original ROG Ally is already sold.In summary, the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X represent a significant advancement in portable gaming, combining powerful hardware with seamless integration of multiple gaming platforms. Their ergonomic design, advanced features, and optimized performance make them compelling options for gamers seeking a versatile and immersive handheld experience.
Source: TechloMedia ASUS ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X Announced: Portable Gaming Powerhouses with Windows 11
