Microsoft has announced plans to extend the "Xbox full screen experience," currently exclusive to the ROG Xbox Ally series, to other Windows handheld devices starting in 2026. This initiative aims to unify the gaming experience across various platforms by integrating Xbox's user interface and features into Windows-based handhelds.
The "Xbox full screen experience" is designed to provide a console-like interface on handheld devices, enhancing usability and performance. Initially, this experience will debut on the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. Roanne Sones, Xbox's corporate VP of gaming devices and ecosystem, stated that the next focus will be updating existing devices like the original ROG Ally series. She further mentioned that similar full-screen Xbox experiences will be rolled out to other Windows handhelds starting next year.
This development is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to integrate the best aspects of Xbox and Windows for gaming handhelds. Jason Ronald, Microsoft's VP of Next Generation, highlighted the company's efforts to simplify the gaming experience on Windows handhelds, making it more akin to a console experience. The goal is to place the player and their game library at the center of the experience, reducing the complexities associated with the current Windows interface on handheld devices.
The move comes in response to the growing popularity of handheld gaming devices and the competition from platforms like Valve's SteamOS. Valve has been working on supporting SteamOS on rival handhelds, including the ASUS ROG Ally, signaling a shift towards more Linux-based gaming handhelds. This development poses a challenge to Microsoft's dominance in the PC gaming market, prompting the company to enhance its offerings for handheld devices.
In addition to software enhancements, Microsoft is reportedly collaborating with ASUS to develop an Xbox-branded handheld device. Codenamed "Project Kennan," this device aims to combine Windows and Xbox experiences, featuring a modified Windows interface resembling that of Xbox consoles. This partnership reflects Microsoft's commitment to expanding its presence in the handheld gaming market.
The integration of the Xbox full screen experience into Windows handhelds is expected to address several challenges associated with gaming on Windows-based devices. Users have often criticized Windows 11 for its suboptimal performance on handhelds, citing issues like poor controller support and an interface not tailored for smaller screens. By introducing a more cohesive and user-friendly interface, Microsoft aims to enhance the gaming experience and retain its user base amidst increasing competition.
As the handheld gaming market continues to evolve, Microsoft's efforts to integrate Xbox features into Windows handhelds signify a strategic move to maintain its relevance and competitiveness. By offering a unified and optimized gaming experience across devices, the company seeks to cater to the growing demand for portable gaming solutions.
Source: Notebookcheck Microsoft says the ROG Xbox Ally series' software will come to other Windows handhelds in 2026