ASUS Teases Xbox-Branded Handheld

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could be an exciting new entry into the gaming handheld market—an Xbox-branded device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account shared a teaser featuring a "little robot friend" working on a project, which included glimpses of an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.

This teaser comes on the heels of a report from IGN last month, detailing Microsoft's ambitious plans for future gaming hardware. These plans include a next-generation Xbox expected in 2027 and a potential Xbox-branded gaming handheld slated for a 2025 release.

The ASUS teaser provided a clear look at the handheld's buttons, arranged in the familiar Xbox layout (Y, B, A, and X) rather than the configurations seen on PlayStation or Nintendo devices. The device also features a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional smaller buttons, though these were less discernible in the teaser.

Adding to the intrigue, the official Xbox account responded to the teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an upcoming reveal.

While exact details such as a launch date or a specific release window remain undisclosed, the teaser's monitor hinted at the device's key features: "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and a "fresh look!"

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

Although this Xbox-branded gaming handheld is not a Microsoft-made console, Microsoft is reportedly working on its own console, expected to launch in 2027 alongside the next-gen Xbox. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming chief, has indicated that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away.

The successor to the Xbox Series X is now reportedly in full production and is expected to be released in two years. This aligns with Xbox president Sarah Bond's statement about moving "full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming for a significant technological advancement.

Amidst these developments, there's ongoing debate about the future of gaming consoles. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested a shift away from traditional gaming consoles, despite continued investment in new hardware from major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo. Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 is set to be unveiled during a Nintendo Direct on April 2, with fans eagerly awaiting details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.