ASUS Teases Xbox-Branded Handheld

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could be a new 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, offering a sneak peek at both an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld gaming system.

This follows a report from IGN last month, which mentioned Microsoft's plans for future gaming hardware, including a full next-generation Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld potentially launching later in 2025.

The handheld device in ASUS's teaser clearly displays Xbox-specific buttons (Y, B, A, and X), a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional buttons, although these are somewhat obscured. The official Xbox account added to the excitement by responding to ASUS's tweet with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an upcoming official reveal.

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Unfortunately, specific details such as a reveal date or launch window are still under wraps. However, the monitor in the teaser suggests the handheld's key features: "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds," and a "fresh look!" These hints give us an idea of what to expect from this new device.

In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of ‘Next Generation,’ spoke to The Verge about Microsoft's intention to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds manufactured by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.

While this Xbox-branded handheld isn't a Microsoft-made console, the company is reportedly preparing to launch its own console in 2027, alongside the next-gen Xbox. Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer has hinted that a first-party Xbox handheld is still several years away.

The successor to the Xbox Series X is now in full production and expected to be released in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's recent statement about Microsoft being "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," with a focus on achieving the biggest technological leap ever in a console generation.

Amidst speculation about the future of gaming consoles, Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, suggested a future where gaming might rely less on dedicated consoles. However, major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to push forward with new hardware. Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 device will be showcased in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans eagerly await details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.