ASUS Xbox handheld leaked in first images

Images reportedly showing ASUS' Xbox-branded handheld, codenamed Project Kennan, have surfaced online.

As initially reported by 91mobiles and picked up by Eurogamer, two product shots of what appears to be ASUS ROG Ally 2 - in white and black variants - emerged through Indonesian certification documents that referenced (now removed) FCC listings in the U.S.

Both models feature Xbox-style button layouts (Y, B, A, X rather than PlayStation or Nintendo configurations). Notably, the black version displays a distinct Xbox button beside the left thumbstick. Current technical specifications remain fragmented, leaving performance differences between color variants unclear.

Windows Central's Jez Corden suggests these devices are "currently undergoing open testing at Microsoft HQ" with a potential announcement coming around May 20.

Photos of Xbox's "Project Kennan" seem to have leaked. https://t.co/fQiMISNMJZ

— Jez (@JezCorden) May 7, 2025

This follows last month's teaser from ASUS ROG's social media account showing glimpses of both an ROG Xbox controller and handheld. Xbox's official account responded with an intrigued reaction GIF, hinting at an impending announcement.

The leak aligns with IGN's previous report on Microsoft's hardware roadmap, which allegedly includes a next-gen Xbox for 2027 and an Xbox-branded portable device potentially launching later this year.

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While this particular device isn't Microsoft's own creation, reports indicate the company plans to release its first-party handheld alongside next-gen Xbox hardware in 2027. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has stated the company's proprietary portable remains years from release.

The next Xbox console is reportedly already in full production, scheduled for a 2027 debut - consistent with Xbox President Sarah Bond's recent statement about "delivering the most significant technological leap in console history".