Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could potentially be an Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account posted a teaser featuring its "little robot friend" working on a new project, which briefly showcased both an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.
Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft's ambitious plans for future gaming hardware, hinting at a full next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded handheld that may hit the market later in 2025. The teaser from ASUS offers further clues, displaying a device with buttons arranged in the familiar Xbox layout (Y, B, A, and X), alongside a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional buttons, though these were not entirely clear in the glimpse provided.
Adding to the buzz, the official Xbox account responded to the teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting that an official reveal might be on the horizon.
pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka
— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025
Despite the excitement, specific details such as a reveal date or launch window remain under wraps. However, the monitor in the teaser mentioned "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and "fresh look!", suggesting some of the key features the handheld might offer.
In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of ‘Next Generation,’ spoke to The Verge about Microsoft's strategy to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds, developed in collaboration with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.
While this Xbox-branded handheld won't be a Microsoft-made console, the company is reportedly gearing up to launch its own first-party handheld in the future. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming boss, has indicated that this is still several years away. Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and expected to be released 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 these developments, there's ongoing speculation about the future of gaming consoles. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested a future generation might rely less on traditional consoles. However, major industry players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to innovate. Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 is set to be showcased in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans eagerly await details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.
