ASUS Teases Xbox-Branded Handheld

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could be a game-changer in the world of portable gaming: an Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account posted a tantalizing teaser featuring its "little robot friend" busy at work, hinting at a collaboration between ROG and Xbox. The glimpse provided in the teaser showcases a Republic of Gamers Xbox controller alongside what appears to be a handheld gaming system, sparking excitement and speculation among gaming enthusiasts.

Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft’s expansive plans for the future of gaming hardware. These plans reportedly include a next-generation Xbox console slated for a 2027 release and an Xbox-branded handheld potentially hitting the market later in 2025. The teaser from ASUS seems to align with these rumors, as the handheld device features buttons labeled with Xbox's familiar Y, B, A, and X, contrasting with PlayStation's and Nintendo's distinct layouts. Additionally, the device sports a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and several smaller buttons, although details on these are somewhat obscured.

Adding to the intrigue, the official Xbox account responded to ASUS's teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an imminent official reveal. While no specific launch date or window has been disclosed, the monitor in the teaser boasts about the handheld's "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and promises a "fresh look," giving us a glimpse into what ASUS and Xbox might be aiming to achieve with this new device.

In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of ‘Next Generation,’ shared with The Verge that Microsoft intends to blend Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds developed by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer. This strategy suggests a broader ecosystem approach to gaming, integrating Microsoft's services across various platforms.

While this Xbox-branded handheld isn't a direct Microsoft console, the company is reportedly gearing up to launch its own first-party handheld in the coming years. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming chief, has hinted that a Microsoft-made handheld is still a few years away. Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X is said to be in full production, aiming for a 2027 release. This aligns with Xbox president Sarah Bond's statement about moving "full speed ahead" on next-generation hardware, promising significant technological advancements.

The future of gaming consoles remains a hot topic, with Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, predicting a future where gaming might rely less on traditional consoles. Despite this, major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to invest heavily in new hardware. Nintendo's much-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.