Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently offered a tantalizing glimpse into what could be an upcoming Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account teased its "little robot friend cooking something up," revealing a brief look at both an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.
This development follows last month's IGN report on Microsoft's ambitious hardware plans, which include a full next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and a potential Xbox-branded handheld that might launch as early as later this year. The handheld teased by ASUS distinctly features buttons aligned with Xbox's layout (Y, B, A, and X), a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four smaller additional buttons, though these are somewhat obscured in the teaser.
Adding to the excitement, the official Xbox account responded to ASUS's teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an impending reveal.
pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka
— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025
While specifics remain under wraps, the monitor in the ASUS teaser hints at the handheld's key features: "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds," and a "fresh look!" These details suggest what ASUS and Microsoft might prioritize in their new device.
In January, Microsoft's VP of 'Next Generation,' Jason Ronald, shared with The Verge that the company aims to merge Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds crafted by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.
### Xbox Games Series Tier ListXbox Games Series Tier List
Although this Xbox-branded handheld won't be a Microsoft-made console, the tech giant is reportedly gearing up to launch its own first-party handheld in the coming years. Microsoft gaming chief Phil Spencer has hinted that a proprietary Xbox handheld is still a few years off.
Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X is said to be "fully" in production with a target release in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's assertion that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming for a significant technological advancement.
Amidst these developments, there's ongoing speculation about the future of gaming consoles. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, predicts a shift away from traditional consoles, despite continued efforts from major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo. Nintendo's eagerly awaited Switch 2 is set to be revealed in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, with fans eager to learn about its features, release date, and pre-order details.
