ASUS Hints at New Xbox Handheld

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could be the much-rumored Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account dropped a tantalizing teaser featuring its "little robot friend" concocting something special, briefly showcasing an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.

Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft’s ambitious plans for video game hardware, which reportedly include a next-gen Xbox set for 2027 and an Xbox-branded handheld slated for a potential launch later in 2025.

The ASUS teaser provides more than just a glimpse; it clearly displays buttons arranged in the Xbox layout (Y, B, A, and X) as opposed to PlayStation's triangle, circle, cross, and square, or Nintendo's X, A, B, and Y. The handheld also features a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four smaller buttons, though these are less discernible.

Adding to the intrigue, the official Xbox account playfully acknowledged the teaser with a wide-eyed gif, hinting at an upcoming reveal.

pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka

— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025

While details are scarce, the monitor in the teaser hints at the handheld's key features: "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and "fresh look!" These points suggest what the device's unique selling propositions might be.

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

Although this Xbox-branded handheld isn't a Microsoft-made console, the company is reportedly planning its own first-party handheld for a later date. Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer 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 launch in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's statement that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming for a significant technological leap.

Amidst the buzz around future consoles, Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, predicted a future where gaming might rely less on dedicated consoles, despite major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continuing to advance their hardware. Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 is set to be revealed in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans eagerly await details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.