ASUS Teases Xbox-Branded Handheld

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has given fans a tantalizing sneak peek at what could be the much-rumored Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account shared an intriguing teaser featuring their "little robot friend" busy at work, hinting at the development of both an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld gaming system.

This revelation follows last month's IGN report on Microsoft’s expansive plans for video game hardware, which include a next-generation Xbox slated for 2027 and a potential Xbox-branded handheld expected to hit the market later in 2025. The teaser from ASUS provides further evidence, showcasing a device with buttons clearly labeled in the Xbox style (Y, B, A, and X), as opposed to the configurations seen on PlayStation and Nintendo devices. The handheld also features a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and several smaller buttons, though these are somewhat obscured in the teaser.

Adding to the excitement, the official Xbox account responded to the teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting that a formal announcement might be on the horizon.

While specifics like a release date remain under wraps, the monitor in the teaser displayed phrases such as "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and "fresh look!" These hints suggest the handheld's unique selling points might include enhanced battery life, increased storage, and improved performance, all wrapped in a new design.

In January, Microsoft’s VP of 'Next Generation,' Jason Ronald, shared with The Verge that the company aims to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds developed by OEMs like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer. This move indicates a broader strategy to enhance gaming across different platforms.

Although this Xbox-branded handheld won't be a direct Microsoft console, the company is reportedly gearing up for its own first-party handheld in the coming years. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming boss, has hinted that a Microsoft-made handheld is still several years away. Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly "fully" in production and expected to launch in 2027, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's comments about accelerating the development of next-generation hardware to achieve the most significant technological leap in console history.

The future of gaming consoles remains a hot topic, with Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, predicting a future where consoles play a less central role. Despite this, major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to invest in new hardware. Nintendo, for instance, is set to unveil the highly anticipated Switch 2 during a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans are eager to learn about its new features, release date, and pre-order details.