ASUS Teases Xbox-Handheld Device

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could be a groundbreaking Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account shared an intriguing teaser featuring its "little robot friend" working on a project, hinting at a Republic of Gamers (ROG) Xbox controller and a corresponding handheld system.

This development follows last month's IGN report on Microsoft's ambitious plans for new gaming hardware, which include a full next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld potentially launching later in 2025. The teaser from ASUS provided a glimpse of the device, showcasing buttons clearly labeled with Xbox standards (Y, B, A, and X), a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and several smaller additional buttons, though these were less distinguishable.

Adding to the buzz, the official Xbox account responded to the ASUS teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting that an official reveal might be on the horizon. While specifics like a reveal date or a launch window remain under wraps, the monitor in the teaser promises "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds," and a "fresh look!" These features suggest the unique selling points of the anticipated handheld.

In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of ‘Next Generation,’ shared with The Verge that the company aims to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds produced by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), such as ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.

While the ASUS device is not a Microsoft-manufactured console, Microsoft is reportedly gearing up to launch its own in 2027, coinciding with the release of its next-gen Xbox. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming boss, has indicated that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away. The successor to the Xbox Series X is already in full production and expected to hit the market in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's comments about Microsoft moving full speed ahead on next-generation hardware to deliver the most significant technological leap in gaming history.

Amidst the excitement around new hardware, Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, has voiced expectations of a future generation that relies less on gaming consoles. However, major industry players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to invest heavily in new hardware. Nintendo's much-anticipated Switch 2 is set to be unveiled in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans eagerly await details on what features the Switch 2 brings to the table, its release date, and how pre-orders will be managed.