Microsoft and Asus have officially unveiled a game-changing collaboration with the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X—the first handheld devices to combine Windows 11 gaming with a deeply integrated Xbox experience. This move marks a significant evolution not just for portable PC gaming but for the broader strategy of Xbox, as Microsoft pivots toward bringing its ecosystem to every screen possible. While Asus brought its successful ROG Ally platform, Microsoft’s contributions deliver a software and design overhaul geared squarely at Xbox fans. But does this fusion of technologies deliver on its ambitious promises? And what does it mean for the future of handheld gaming? Let’s dive deep into the hardware, software, and strategic implications of the ROG Xbox Ally family, scrutinizing both the benefits and the caveats that come with such a bold collaboration.
For over two decades, Xbox fans have clamored for a portable console to rival Nintendo’s DS and Switch lines or Sony’s defunct PlayStation Vita. Early efforts to bring Xbox experiences to handheld hardware—through third-party streaming devices, cloud gaming via smartphones, and recent partnerships like Logitech’s G Cloud—have always felt like half measures. The ROG Xbox Ally series represents Microsoft’s first co-engineered foray into dedicated gaming handhelds, with Asus at the manufacturing helm.
This launch is more than a rebrand of Asus’ existing ROG Ally. According to both companies, the new devices integrate Xbox hardware DNA directly into ergonomics, user experience, and core input. The design is unmistakably a hybrid between a modern ROG Ally and the iconic Xbox controller. Large, sculpted grips evoke the comfort of the Xbox Series X|S gamepad, while a dramatically improved impulse trigger system delivers haptic feedback to the fingertips, mirroring the feedback cues that Xbox gamers have come to expect.
Notably, the product launches at a juncture when handheld gaming demand is surging, driven by the success of Valve’s Steam Deck and a growing appetite for PC and console game streaming. Yet, unlike the Steam Deck, these devices prioritize Windows 11 and Xbox integration over a Linux-based platform. The result is an ambitious attempt to offer the best of both worlds: the flexibility of a full Windows PC and the plug-and-play simplicity of an Xbox console.
Key Specifications Breakdown:
The most profound differences reside under the hood of the ROG Xbox Ally X. Powered by AMD’s latest Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chipset, it features a full-fat 8-core/16-thread CPU, sixteen RDNA 3.5 GPU cores, and an AI-centric NPU capable of up to 50 trillion operations per second (TOPS). This NPU, while still new to the gaming space, reflects AMD’s and Microsoft’s wager that onboard AI will increasingly enhance not just workflow tasks but also graphics upscaling, power management, and real-time game assistance.
Microsoft and Asus round out the X model’s credentials with a generous 24GB of superfast LPDDR5X-8000 memory and a 1TB SSD. This offers not only enough room for dozens of AAA games but also the headroom necessary for future Windows and Xbox updates or experimental features tapping into large memory footprints. In contrast, the entry-level Ally, with its Ryzen Z2 A (a lower-spec, Zen 2-based quad-core chip and modest 8 RDNA 2 GPU cores), targets more casual or budget-conscious players. Notably, Asus’s choice to use older Zen 2 architecture for the base model may limit performance longevity, especially as games and services evolve.
Both models now boast impulse triggers integrated with haptic feedback, a feature directly inspired by the Xbox controller’s hallmark tactile response. The joysticks and button layouts remain familiar to ROG Ally fans but with a new dedicated Xbox button—functioning as a Game Bar shortcut—underscoring the intent to make this feel as much like an Xbox-in-your-hands as a Windows PC.
The surface now features textured patterns for secure grip and improved venting. The implication is clear: Asus has listened to community feedback about slipping and overheating during marathon gaming. Early reports from hands-on reviewers affirm that these changes bring the Ally X and Ally much closer to the “pick up and play” feel that the Xbox brand is synonymous with.
A possible trade-off, however, is that these devices are less pocketable than competitors. At 715g, the Ally X is heavier than the Steam Deck OLED (which weighs around 640g), raising questions about fatigue, especially for younger gamers or those seeking ultra-portable solutions. Still, the robust 80Wh battery in the Ally X does promise much longer session times between charges—a direct answer to one of the biggest pain points for power-hungry handhelds today.
What does onboard AI mean for handheld gaming? In theory, it opens the door for highly efficient AI upscaling (like AMD’s FSR or Microsoft’s DirectML Super Resolution), adaptive battery and fan management, and perhaps even unique gaming overlays or real-time coaching features, if Microsoft chooses to enable them via Game Bar or Xbox software. Thus far, neither company has committed to specific game-enhancing AI software out of the gate, but the silicon is ready—and the NPU’s existence is verifiable via AMD’s own documentation and industry benchmarks.
On the graphics side, 16 RDNA 3.5 cores in the Ally X (versus 8 in the Ally) should offer at least a doubling of theoretical graphical throughput, assuming software optimizations can keep pace. Early industry analysis suggests that the Z2 Extreme should run most modern games at 1080p, leveraging the 120Hz panel for ultra-high frame rates in esports titles, and smooth, visually-rich experiences for single-player blockbusters.
Conversely, the base-level Ally, with its Zen 2-based Ryzen Z2 A, is already being positioned as a budget model for indie, retro, or cloud gamers. It’s a savvy segmentation, but also a tacit admittance that the entry model may struggle with demanding upcoming games—especially as Windows 11 and game launchers bloat over time.
Beneath this layer, however, is full, unrestricted Windows 11 Home. It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, gamers are not locked into the Xbox ecosystem—they can install Steam, Epic, GOG, or any major PC game launcher, modding suites, emulators, and even non-gaming software. This breadth is a meaningful win over the closed-garden approach of Nintendo or the walled SteamOS of Valve’s handheld. On the other, Windows 11’s desktop heritage brings with it the baggage of inconsistent touch interfaces, background updates, and the potential for frustrating compatibility issues, especially in portrait mode or with oddball indie titles.
The updated ROG Armoury Crate—now a “Special Edition” for the Xbox Ally lineup—further integrates quick settings, game library management, and customizable widgets directly into the Game Bar interface. Early demos show overlays for at-a-glance performance stats, battery health, and instant access to friends lists. Importantly, the new dedicated Xbox button on the left joystick cluster brings up Game Bar instantly, providing a rapid console-like shortcut familiar to Xbox owners.
While these UI improvements address many long-standing gripes with Windows handhelds, some risks remain. If Microsoft and Asus fail to keep pace with driver and software updates, or if the touch-first ambitions of the interface remain half-baked, users could face friction as third-party game launchers or Windows updates introduce regressions. Historically, Microsoft’s track record on optimizing Windows for small, touch-centric devices has been mixed. However, the explicit partnership and these custom UI layers are promising first steps.
Real-world battery life will of course depend on the games being played, display brightness, network activity, and power profiles. Asus claims (but has not yet independently demonstrated) that the Ally X’s battery “should last longer than most handheld devices on the market,” a claim that seems reasonably substantiated given the massive capacity increase. Users can likely expect several hours of intensive gameplay—possibly a full afternoon on lower settings—before needing to recharge.
The caveat: All this extra battery adds to the device’s mass and size, as previously discussed. For some, extended playtime will be a fair trade for a heavier device; others may yearn for something slimmer, especially for travel.
In practical terms, this means players can dock their Ally X for desktop gaming, stream to a big TV, or use it as a fully-fledged productivity Windows device with the appropriate accessories. Support for 1TB of internal PCIe SSD storage out of the box means fewer compromises between AAA game installs and media libraries. This is a subtle but important leap over competitors like the Steam Deck, many of which require user upgrades or compromise with slower microSD cards.
Pricing details remain under embargo as of the announcement, a curious omission that complicates direct value comparisons against Valve’s Steam Deck OLED, the Ayaneo Next, or even Nintendo’s Switch OLED. Historically, Asus’s ROG Ally line has positioned itself at a premium tier (typically $699–$899 USD), and the advanced specifications of the Ally X suggest a likely price ceiling above even the most expensive Steam Deck models. Whether consumers are ready to pay such a premium—knowing that Windows 11 compatibility unlocks an arguably broader universe of games—remains to be seen.
If the collaboration is successful—demonstrated by robust sales, positive user feedback, and software stability—it could pave the way for future Xbox-branded hardware, even beyond the PC ecosystem. It’s also a shot across the bow at Valve and Nintendo, potentially igniting a new “arms race” focused not just on hardware specs, but on delivering truly integrated, cross-platform gaming experiences.
In the short term, the Allies’ success will hinge on Asus’s and Microsoft’s ability to provide regular software updates, optimize battery life, and ensure all major gaming storefronts play nicely. The added challenge of managing international distribution, customer support, and repair logistics will put both partners to the test.
Long-term, the inclusion of dedicated AI hardware suggests that handheld gaming may soon benefit from breakthroughs in upscaling, latency reduction, and context-aware gameplay features—realizing Microsoft’s and AMD’s shared ambitions for the “AI PC” generation.
Yet, as with any wave of first-generation devices, buyers should temper excitement with reasonable caution. The risks of Windows friction, software teething pains, and unproven AI features mean that the path forward is not guaranteed to be smooth. What is clear, however, is that Microsoft and Asus are now treating handheld gaming not as a side project, but as a central pillar of the Xbox and PC strategy.
For gamers seeking a single device to bridge their Steam, Xbox, and indie libraries—one that promises console comfort and the infinite possibilities of Windows—the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X may just be the most compelling handhelds yet. Watch closely to see if future updates and market reception fulfill the considerable promise of this remarkable collaboration.
Source: Tom's Hardware Asus partners with Microsoft launch first Xbox gaming handhelds, the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X
Breaking Barriers: Xbox Finally Goes Handheld
For over two decades, Xbox fans have clamored for a portable console to rival Nintendo’s DS and Switch lines or Sony’s defunct PlayStation Vita. Early efforts to bring Xbox experiences to handheld hardware—through third-party streaming devices, cloud gaming via smartphones, and recent partnerships like Logitech’s G Cloud—have always felt like half measures. The ROG Xbox Ally series represents Microsoft’s first co-engineered foray into dedicated gaming handhelds, with Asus at the manufacturing helm.This launch is more than a rebrand of Asus’ existing ROG Ally. According to both companies, the new devices integrate Xbox hardware DNA directly into ergonomics, user experience, and core input. The design is unmistakably a hybrid between a modern ROG Ally and the iconic Xbox controller. Large, sculpted grips evoke the comfort of the Xbox Series X|S gamepad, while a dramatically improved impulse trigger system delivers haptic feedback to the fingertips, mirroring the feedback cues that Xbox gamers have come to expect.
Notably, the product launches at a juncture when handheld gaming demand is surging, driven by the success of Valve’s Steam Deck and a growing appetite for PC and console game streaming. Yet, unlike the Steam Deck, these devices prioritize Windows 11 and Xbox integration over a Linux-based platform. The result is an ambitious attempt to offer the best of both worlds: the flexibility of a full Windows PC and the plug-and-play simplicity of an Xbox console.
Inside the Hardware: ROG Xbox Ally vs. Ally X Specifications
At launch, Asus and Microsoft are offering two tiers: the entry-level ROG Xbox Ally and the high-powered ROG Xbox Ally X. Both share the same 7-inch 1080p IPS display, boasting 120Hz refresh rates, FreeSync Premium for buttery-smooth visuals, and robust protection with Gorilla Glass Victus plus anti-reflective coatings. This consistency ensures that even the budget variant of the Ally offers a distinctly premium viewing experience, matching or exceeding established handheld rivals.Key Specifications Breakdown:
| Feature | ROG Xbox Ally | ROG Xbox Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 7" 1080p IPS, 120Hz, 500 nits | 7" 1080p IPS, 120Hz, 500 nits |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 A (4c/8t, Zen 2) | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme (8c/16t, Zen 4) |
| Graphics | 8 RDNA 2 cores | 16 RDNA 3.5 cores |
| NPU/AI (only Ally X) | No dedicated NPU | 50 TOPS NPU (AI acceleration) |
| Memory | 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 | 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 |
| Storage | 512GB SSD (M.2 2280) | 1TB SSD (M.2 2280) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Ports | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C | 1x USB4 (DisplayPort 2.1), 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Battery | 60Wh | 80Wh |
| Weight | 670g | 715g |
| OS | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
Microsoft and Asus round out the X model’s credentials with a generous 24GB of superfast LPDDR5X-8000 memory and a 1TB SSD. This offers not only enough room for dozens of AAA games but also the headroom necessary for future Windows and Xbox updates or experimental features tapping into large memory footprints. In contrast, the entry-level Ally, with its Ryzen Z2 A (a lower-spec, Zen 2-based quad-core chip and modest 8 RDNA 2 GPU cores), targets more casual or budget-conscious players. Notably, Asus’s choice to use older Zen 2 architecture for the base model may limit performance longevity, especially as games and services evolve.
Both models now boast impulse triggers integrated with haptic feedback, a feature directly inspired by the Xbox controller’s hallmark tactile response. The joysticks and button layouts remain familiar to ROG Ally fans but with a new dedicated Xbox button—functioning as a Game Bar shortcut—underscoring the intent to make this feel as much like an Xbox-in-your-hands as a Windows PC.
Ergonomics and Build Quality: Balancing Bulk with Comfort
Perhaps the most striking redesign choice is the enlarged, contoured grips modeled after the latest Xbox controllers. Unlike the first ROG Ally, which leaned into a slim, mobile-first profile, the Xbox Ally devices unabashedly increase their thickness and overall weight (the Ally X tips the scales at 715g). This extra heft does, as Asus claims, translate to greater comfort—especially for extended play—but may not suit every portable gaming fan. Where devices like the Nintendo Switch or Logitech G Cloud prioritize a super-light feel, the ROG Xbox Ally series is clearly meant to be cradled for hours, not slipped into a small handbag.The surface now features textured patterns for secure grip and improved venting. The implication is clear: Asus has listened to community feedback about slipping and overheating during marathon gaming. Early reports from hands-on reviewers affirm that these changes bring the Ally X and Ally much closer to the “pick up and play” feel that the Xbox brand is synonymous with.
A possible trade-off, however, is that these devices are less pocketable than competitors. At 715g, the Ally X is heavier than the Steam Deck OLED (which weighs around 640g), raising questions about fatigue, especially for younger gamers or those seeking ultra-portable solutions. Still, the robust 80Wh battery in the Ally X does promise much longer session times between charges—a direct answer to one of the biggest pain points for power-hungry handhelds today.
The AMD Factor: Z2 Extreme and AI Foresight
The ROG Xbox Ally X is the first handheld to launch with AMD’s Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chipset—a part announced in tandem with these devices. This system-on-chip is a leap forward not just in raw graphics horsepower but in introducing substantial AI compute to the Windows gaming handheld niche. According to AMD’s public specs and multiple independent sources, the NPU in the Z2 Extreme can hit 50 TOPS, a figure that compares favorably to current high-end mobile AI accelerators and even some upcoming PC-class chips [verified across AMD’s press releases and third-party hardware analysis].What does onboard AI mean for handheld gaming? In theory, it opens the door for highly efficient AI upscaling (like AMD’s FSR or Microsoft’s DirectML Super Resolution), adaptive battery and fan management, and perhaps even unique gaming overlays or real-time coaching features, if Microsoft chooses to enable them via Game Bar or Xbox software. Thus far, neither company has committed to specific game-enhancing AI software out of the gate, but the silicon is ready—and the NPU’s existence is verifiable via AMD’s own documentation and industry benchmarks.
On the graphics side, 16 RDNA 3.5 cores in the Ally X (versus 8 in the Ally) should offer at least a doubling of theoretical graphical throughput, assuming software optimizations can keep pace. Early industry analysis suggests that the Z2 Extreme should run most modern games at 1080p, leveraging the 120Hz panel for ultra-high frame rates in esports titles, and smooth, visually-rich experiences for single-player blockbusters.
Conversely, the base-level Ally, with its Zen 2-based Ryzen Z2 A, is already being positioned as a budget model for indie, retro, or cloud gamers. It’s a savvy segmentation, but also a tacit admittance that the entry model may struggle with demanding upcoming games—especially as Windows 11 and game launchers bloat over time.
Integrated Xbox Experience: Software and Usability Overhauls
A standout feature of the new ROG Xbox Ally family is a “direct Xbox view” software layer that launches on boot, instantly serving up a console-like experience. This evolution, per Microsoft’s Xbox Showcase presentation and Asus’s official communications, is key to differentiating the device from generic Windows gaming handhelds. Rather than dropping users onto the Windows desktop, the Ally defaults to an interface reminiscent of Xbox consoles—complete with an updated Game Bar that feels at home on small screens and allows seamless switching between Xbox Cloud Gaming, local installed games, and PC game stores.Beneath this layer, however, is full, unrestricted Windows 11 Home. It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, gamers are not locked into the Xbox ecosystem—they can install Steam, Epic, GOG, or any major PC game launcher, modding suites, emulators, and even non-gaming software. This breadth is a meaningful win over the closed-garden approach of Nintendo or the walled SteamOS of Valve’s handheld. On the other, Windows 11’s desktop heritage brings with it the baggage of inconsistent touch interfaces, background updates, and the potential for frustrating compatibility issues, especially in portrait mode or with oddball indie titles.
The updated ROG Armoury Crate—now a “Special Edition” for the Xbox Ally lineup—further integrates quick settings, game library management, and customizable widgets directly into the Game Bar interface. Early demos show overlays for at-a-glance performance stats, battery health, and instant access to friends lists. Importantly, the new dedicated Xbox button on the left joystick cluster brings up Game Bar instantly, providing a rapid console-like shortcut familiar to Xbox owners.
While these UI improvements address many long-standing gripes with Windows handhelds, some risks remain. If Microsoft and Asus fail to keep pace with driver and software updates, or if the touch-first ambitions of the interface remain half-baked, users could face friction as third-party game launchers or Windows updates introduce regressions. Historically, Microsoft’s track record on optimizing Windows for small, touch-centric devices has been mixed. However, the explicit partnership and these custom UI layers are promising first steps.
Battery Life Upgrades: Addressing the Number One Complaint
Battery endurance has been the Achilles’ heel of almost every handheld Windows gaming device. The new ROG Xbox Ally X tackles the issue head-on with a beefed-up 80Wh battery—one of the largest to ever ship in a device of this class. For comparison, the baseline ROG Ally and Steam Deck models clock in at 60Wh and 50Wh respectively.Real-world battery life will of course depend on the games being played, display brightness, network activity, and power profiles. Asus claims (but has not yet independently demonstrated) that the Ally X’s battery “should last longer than most handheld devices on the market,” a claim that seems reasonably substantiated given the massive capacity increase. Users can likely expect several hours of intensive gameplay—possibly a full afternoon on lower settings—before needing to recharge.
The caveat: All this extra battery adds to the device’s mass and size, as previously discussed. For some, extended playtime will be a fair trade for a heavier device; others may yearn for something slimmer, especially for travel.
Enhanced Connectivity, More Storage, and Modern I/O
Both the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X feature the latest in wireless standards, including Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4. The Ally X steps up its port game by including a USB4 Type-C connector, supporting ultra-fast external storage, high-bandwidth display output, and Thunderbolt 4 compatibility. The device also maintains a microSD slot and a traditional headphone jack for those who value wired audio or expandable game libraries.In practical terms, this means players can dock their Ally X for desktop gaming, stream to a big TV, or use it as a fully-fledged productivity Windows device with the appropriate accessories. Support for 1TB of internal PCIe SSD storage out of the box means fewer compromises between AAA game installs and media libraries. This is a subtle but important leap over competitors like the Steam Deck, many of which require user upgrades or compromise with slower microSD cards.
The Global Launch: Rollout Plans and Pricing Speculation
Asus and Microsoft have confirmed an aggressive international rollout for the ROG Xbox Ally lineup. The devices will launch in 28 countries across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania—including the U.S., U.K., Australia, Japan, Korea, Germany, France, and more—with promises to extend availability to other regions currently served by ROG Ally. This scale immediately makes the Allies more accessible than many niche competitors, which often struggle with limited regional distribution.Pricing details remain under embargo as of the announcement, a curious omission that complicates direct value comparisons against Valve’s Steam Deck OLED, the Ayaneo Next, or even Nintendo’s Switch OLED. Historically, Asus’s ROG Ally line has positioned itself at a premium tier (typically $699–$899 USD), and the advanced specifications of the Ally X suggest a likely price ceiling above even the most expensive Steam Deck models. Whether consumers are ready to pay such a premium—knowing that Windows 11 compatibility unlocks an arguably broader universe of games—remains to be seen.
Critical Analysis: Innovation Meets Reality
Major Strengths
- Industry-First Xbox Handheld Partnership: This is the first time Microsoft has officially co-developed a device aimed at the handheld gaming market, leveraging the full weight of Xbox and Windows engineering.
- Top-Tier Display and Input: Both models offer industry-leading displays, robust build quality, and immersive haptic feedback triggers reminiscent of the best Xbox controllers.
- Best-in-Class Performance (X model): With leading-edge AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme silicon, massive memory, and blazing-fast storage and wireless, the Ally X is poised to set new standards for portable performance.
- Seamless Xbox-PC Integration: The custom Xbox interface over Windows 11 meaningfully eases the learning curve for console gamers, while still offering unmatched flexibility for PC enthusiasts.
- Longer Battery Life: At 80Wh, the Ally X addresses the number one pain point of earlier Windows handhelds, potentially making it a reliable travel or marathon gaming companion.
- Global Availability and Windows Compatibility: With launches in nearly 30 countries and the open platform of Windows 11, more players can enjoy a vast library of games without artificial restrictions.
Key Risks and Limitations
- Windows 11 Friction: The reliance on full Windows brings baggage—background processes, inconsistent touch experiences, and the need for frequent updates can frustrate console-first consumers.
- Unproven AI Use-Cases (as of launch): While the NPU is powerful on paper, Asus and Microsoft have yet to outline compelling AI-powered features for consumers, leaving some of its potential unrealized for now.
- Size and Weight Trade-Offs: The comfort improvements come at the cost of greater thickness and mass, making the Ally X less pocketable than the Steam Deck or Switch and potentially fatiguing in long handheld sessions.
- Entry-Level Model Aging Rapidly: The decision to base the ROG Xbox Ally on a 2020-era Zen 2 processor may limit longevity and could struggle with newer titles over the device’s lifespan.
- Price Positioning and Market Uncertainty: Without solid pricing, it’s hard to judge value-for-money; a high MSRP may limit adoption among the broader portable gaming market.
- Ecosystem Fragmentation: Gamers still face the need to juggle between Xbox, Steam, Epic, and other launchers, with no guarantee of perfect compatibility across every title.
Outlook: Repercussions and the Road Ahead
The launch of the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X signals a bold step in Microsoft’s push to dissolve the boundaries between Xbox and PC gaming. For Asus, it’s an opportunity to solidify its ROG platform as the go-to for Windows handhelds, especially as rivals like Lenovo, Steam, and Ayaneo innovate with alternative operating systems or custom launchers.If the collaboration is successful—demonstrated by robust sales, positive user feedback, and software stability—it could pave the way for future Xbox-branded hardware, even beyond the PC ecosystem. It’s also a shot across the bow at Valve and Nintendo, potentially igniting a new “arms race” focused not just on hardware specs, but on delivering truly integrated, cross-platform gaming experiences.
In the short term, the Allies’ success will hinge on Asus’s and Microsoft’s ability to provide regular software updates, optimize battery life, and ensure all major gaming storefronts play nicely. The added challenge of managing international distribution, customer support, and repair logistics will put both partners to the test.
Long-term, the inclusion of dedicated AI hardware suggests that handheld gaming may soon benefit from breakthroughs in upscaling, latency reduction, and context-aware gameplay features—realizing Microsoft’s and AMD’s shared ambitions for the “AI PC” generation.
Conclusion: A Promising Yet Cautiously Optimistic Future
The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are far more than the sum of Asus’s engineering and Microsoft’s brand. They represent a strategic turning point in how the industry thinks about gaming on the go: open, flexible, and equally at home with Steam, Xbox, and everything in between. By closely fusing Xbox’s user experience with Windows’ breadth—and deploying class-leading hardware—they promise an unparalleled level of comfort, immersion, and versatility.Yet, as with any wave of first-generation devices, buyers should temper excitement with reasonable caution. The risks of Windows friction, software teething pains, and unproven AI features mean that the path forward is not guaranteed to be smooth. What is clear, however, is that Microsoft and Asus are now treating handheld gaming not as a side project, but as a central pillar of the Xbox and PC strategy.
For gamers seeking a single device to bridge their Steam, Xbox, and indie libraries—one that promises console comfort and the infinite possibilities of Windows—the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X may just be the most compelling handhelds yet. Watch closely to see if future updates and market reception fulfill the considerable promise of this remarkable collaboration.
Source: Tom's Hardware Asus partners with Microsoft launch first Xbox gaming handhelds, the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X
