Microsoft Unveils Xbox Handhelds With Full Game Pass Access
Microsoft has officially jumped into the handheld gaming race with the reveal of the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X, developed in collaboration with ASUS. Both versions run on Windows 11 and feature a new full-screen Xbox mode that boots directly into an optimized gaming interface, skipping the traditional Windows desktop. Players will have access to Xbox Game Pass, remote play, and cloud gaming — plus titles from Steam, EA Play, Battle.net, and more. "Whether you're at home or on the go, your favorite games should follow you," said Xbox's Roanne Sones.
The handhelds share a 7-inch, 1080p screen, but differ in power and storage. The base model includes 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, while the X version offers 24GB RAM and 1TB of storage, along with a stronger processor and battery. Though the devices are heavier than the Nintendo Switch 2 — which launched just days before the announcement — Microsoft claims the redesigned Windows OS uses a third of the idle power draw compared to traditional desktop mode. "This isn’t surface-level changes, we’ve made significant improvements," said Xbox engineer Brianna Potvin.
Gamers can expect 17 new titles to launch day-one on Game Pass, including Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4, Ninja Gaiden 4, Outer Worlds 2, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. There’s also buzz around the long-awaited Persona 4 Revival, though no release date has been confirmed. Microsoft is also rolling out a verified program to flag which titles run best on handhelds and offering a free Game Pass trial with the new devices. Pricing is still under wraps, but both models are expected to launch this holiday season across over 30 countries.
