Microsoft Reveals Xbox Ally and Ally X Handhelds With Xbox-Centric Windows UI, Gaming Copilot, and More

At the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, Microsoft made a notable hardware pivot - not by unveiling a new console, but by introducing two handheld gaming PCs in partnership with ASUS: the ROG Xbox Ally and the more powerful ROG Xbox Ally X.

These aren't just rebranded versions of ASUS's existing ROG Ally devices - they mark the first Xbox-branded handhelds, signaling Microsoft's growing interest in the portable PC gaming space.

A Fresh Form Factor for the Xbox Ecosystem

The Xbox Ally and Ally X are designed for gamers who want the flexibility of PC gaming on the go, without losing the polish and integration of the Xbox experience. Both devices run Windows 11 Home, but boot directly into a new Xbox full-screen mode that's designed to minimize distractions. Background tasks are suppressed, giving the game front and center access to system resources - a smart move for performance.

What makes these handhelds distinctly "Xbox" is more than branding. They include a dedicated Xbox home button, contoured grips inspired by the Xbox Wireless Controller, and a familiar ABXY layout. This design clearly prioritizes comfort and recognition for existing Xbox users.

Specs Designed Around Two Different Gamers

Though both devices feature the same 7-inch 1080p LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 500 nits peak brightness, the internal specs set them apart.

The standard ROG Xbox Ally is aimed at casual gamers. It's powered by AMD's Ryzen Z2 A processor, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of SSD storage. It's the more affordable, accessible version of the two - a way for newcomers to get into handheld gaming without compromising too much.

The ROG Xbox Ally X, on the other hand, is built for more demanding players. It comes with the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip, 24GB of faster LPDDR5X RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage. This version is clearly positioned as the higher-end option, capable of running more intensive titles and offering better multitasking headroom.

Hardware

Microsoft and ASUS haven't just stuffed powerful internals into a handheld shell. There's attention to usability too. Both devices support FreeSync Premium for smoother gameplay and include Corning Gorilla Glass Victus with an anti-reflection coating - essential for outdoor gaming.

Port selection is slightly different between the two models. The Ally includes two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports and a microSD card slot, while the Ally X ups the ante with one USB 4.0 port (Thunderbolt 4 compatible) and a more powerful USB-C configuration. Both have a 3.5mm headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.4.

Battery life also reflects the tiered approach: the Ally ships with a 60Wh battery, while the Ally X bumps that to 80Wh, which should translate to longer play sessions without hunting for a charger. Both models support 67W fast charging.

Software

Despite running full Windows, Microsoft has worked on making the handheld experience feel console-like. A new Game Bar overlay gives players quick access to chat, apps, performance settings, and even an AI-powered Gaming Copilot. This assistant can help users launch games faster, offer in-game tips, and connect with communities.

Integration with ASUS's Armoury Crate means players can tweak settings and input preferences without digging through Windows menus. Even better, Microsoft is introducing a cross-store gaming library, which pulls titles from Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Battle.net, and other platforms into a unified launcher.

Native Roblox Support and Developer Partnerships

One interesting detail is Microsoft's partnership with Roblox, which will be natively supported on both devices at launch. Additionally, Microsoft is collaborating with game developers to optimize titles for handheld play, suggesting that more PC games will soon adapt to smaller screen sizes and portable hardware.

Availability and Launch Plans

The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are scheduled to arrive this holiday season in major markets including the US, UK, France, Japan, Singapore, and Australia. Microsoft has confirmed that a wider rollout will follow, with India expected to be part of the second phase.

There's no official word yet on pricing or pre-orders. Microsoft says those details, along with a full list of compatible accessories, will be revealed closer to the launch date.

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