ASUS Teases Xbox-Branded Handheld

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could be the much-talked-about Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account posted a tantalizing teaser featuring their "little robot friend" hard at work, giving fans a brief look at both an ROG Xbox controller and a new handheld system.

Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft's ambitious plans in the gaming hardware sector, revealing intentions to launch a full next-generation Xbox in 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld possibly in late 2025. The ASUS teaser corroborates these reports, as it distinctly showcases buttons labeled with Xbox's iconic Y, B, A, and X, rather than the configurations used by PlayStation or Nintendo. The handheld also features a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional smaller buttons, though these are less clear in the teaser.

Adding to the excitement, the official Xbox account playfully acknowledged ASUS's post with a wide-eyed gif, hinting that a significant reveal might be on the horizon.

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Unfortunately, specifics like a release date or launch window remain undisclosed. However, the monitor in the teaser boasts "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and a "fresh look," suggesting what the handheld's key features might be.

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 developed 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 gearing up to launch its own in 2027, alongside the next-gen Xbox. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming chief, has hinted that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away. Additionally, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and expected to hit the market in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's remarks about pushing forward with a monumental technological leap in the next generation of hardware.

The future of gaming consoles has been a hot topic, especially with Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, predicting a shift away from traditional consoles. Despite this, industry leaders like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo are forging ahead with new hardware. Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 is set to be unveiled in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans eagerly await details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.