Microsoft and ASUS May Launch Xbox Handheld Console in October This Year

Gaming Communities have received yet another exciting piece of news, or rather, rumors suggest that Microsoft is stepping into handheld gaming for the first time ever. This is a collaborative plan with Asus, the company that is reportedly gearing up to reveal its first-ever Xbox-branded portable console at Gamescom 2025 on August 20.

This is a highly awaited device and is expected to be called the ROG Xbox Ally, with a more advanced and futuristic Ally X model also in talks. If the leaks are set to be true, then this move could open a new chapter in Xbox's history, making it easier than ever to enjoy Xbox games on the go.

What is the ROG Xbox Ally?

The ROG Xbox Ally is rumored to be based on Asus's successful ROG Ally handheld gaming PC but restructured for Xbox fans.

It is said to have an Xbox-style interface, with built-in access to Xbox Game Pass and a system that is a mixture of PC gaming power and Xbox's console experience.

Reveal and Launch Date

Reliable resources suggest that Microsoft plans to reveal the ROG Xbox Ally during its Gamescom showcase on August 20, 2025. Fans might not have to wait too long after the reveal for the launch.

The launch date is said to be October 16, 2025 which means pre-orders could open soon after Gamescom, giving gamers a chance to secure one before the holiday rush.

What might it cost and include?

According to the rumors spreading, there are 2 versions of the handheld:

1. Base Model (ROG Xbox Ally)

The base model is said to be developed with features like an AMD Ryzen Z2 A chip, 16 GB RAM, and 512 GB SSD for storage. This version of the console is expected to cost around $499.

2. Premium Model (ROG Xbox Ally X)

This is powered by an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip, with 24 GB RAM and a massive 1 TB SSD. This higher-end option could be priced around $799 to $899.

These individual specifications of the model make the ROG Xbox Ally powerful enough to handle both AAA titles and indie games with smooth performance while being compressed enough to carry around.

Games to Try First

At Gamescom, Microsoft is rumored to offer live demos of several popular and upcoming games that are running on handheld.

Games like Hollow Knight: Silksong, The Outer Worlds 2, and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater are expected to be playable, giving fans a taste of what this portable Xbox experience will feel like.

Conclusion

This rumored news about the ROG Xbox Ally could change the way we think about Xbox gaming.

By a mixture of portable power, Xbox Game Pass integration, and PC-like performance, Microsoft and Asus might deliver a device that lets gamers truly play anywhere.

If there is an October launch of this console as rumors suggest, then this handheld is a must-have for both casual players and dedicated Xbox fans.