ASUS Teases Xbox-Handheld Release

Gaming hardware company ASUS has recently offered a tantalizing glimpse into what might be the much-discussed Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account posted a teaser featuring their "little robot friend" hard at work, hinting at an upcoming collaboration with Xbox. The brief video showcased both an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system, sparking excitement among fans.

Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft’s ambitious plans for gaming hardware, which include a next-generation Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded handheld that could hit the market later in 2025. The teaser from ASUS provides further evidence, as the handheld device clearly features Xbox-specific buttons (Y, B, A, and X), a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and additional smaller buttons, though these are somewhat obscured in the footage.

Adding to the intrigue, the official Xbox account responded to ASUS's teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting that a big reveal might be on the horizon.

pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka

— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025

While no specific release date or launch window has been announced, the monitor in the teaser suggests the handheld will boast "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and a "fresh look!" These hints give us a glimpse into the potential unique selling points of the device.

In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of 'Next Generation,' shared with The Verge that the company aims to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds manufactured by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.

Although this Xbox-branded handheld is not a direct Microsoft console, the company is reportedly gearing up to release its own first-party handheld in the future. Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer has indicated that such a device is still years away. Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X, now in full production, is expected to launch in 2027, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's recent statement about Microsoft's aggressive push towards the next generation of hardware, promising the "biggest technological leap ever in a generation."

Amidst this flurry of hardware announcements, there's ongoing debate about the future of gaming consoles. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested that future gaming might rely less on traditional consoles, even as major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to innovate. Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 is set to be unveiled in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, with fans eagerly awaiting details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.