Gaming hardware giant ASUS has offered a tantalizing glimpse into what could be the much-talked-about Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) account on X/Twitter recently posted a teaser featuring a "little robot friend" seemingly crafting something special. The video briefly showcases both an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system, igniting excitement and speculation across the gaming community.
Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft's ambitious plans for its gaming hardware, including a next-generation Xbox expected in 2027 and a rumored Xbox-branded gaming handheld slated for a potential 2025 release. The teaser from ASUS seems to corroborate these reports, with the handheld's buttons clearly aligned with Xbox's iconic Y, B, A, and X layout, distinct from PlayStation and Nintendo's configurations. Additional features like a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and smaller buttons are hinted at, though details remain somewhat obscured.
Adding to the buzz, the official Xbox account playfully acknowledged ASUS's tweet with a wide-eyed gif, hinting at an upcoming reveal. While specifics on a launch date or window are still under wraps, the teaser's backdrop—a monitor displaying "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and "fresh look!"—offers a sneak peek into the handheld's potential unique selling points.
In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft's VP of 'Next Generation,' shared with The Verge that the company aims to merge Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds developed by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer. This move underscores Microsoft's strategy to expand its gaming ecosystem beyond traditional consoles.
While the Xbox-branded handheld isn't a Microsoft-made console, the company is reportedly gearing up to launch its own in 2027, coinciding with the next-gen Xbox. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming chief, has hinted that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away. Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production, set to launch in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's statement about Microsoft's aggressive push towards the next generation of hardware, promising the "biggest technological leap ever in a generation."
Amidst these developments, the future of gaming consoles remains a hot topic. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested a shift away from traditional consoles in future generations, despite ongoing efforts by major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo. Nintendo's eagerly awaited Switch 2 is set to be unveiled in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, with fans eagerly anticipating details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.
