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 shared an intriguing teaser featuring a "little robot friend" working on a project, hinting at both an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.
This development follows last month's IGN report on Microsoft's gaming hardware plans, which included a next-generation Xbox expected in 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld potentially launching later in 2025. The teaser from ASUS provides a glimpse of the handheld's design, showcasing buttons labeled Y, B, A, and X, a layout typically associated with Xbox controllers, along with a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional buttons.
Adding fuel to the speculation, the official Xbox account responded to ASUS's teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an impending reveal. Although no specific dates have been announced, the monitor in the teaser mentions "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and a "fresh look," suggesting some of the handheld's key features.
In January, Microsoft's VP of 'Next Generation,' Jason Ronald, spoke to The Verge about integrating Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds developed by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer. While this Xbox-branded handheld is not a Microsoft-made console, Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer has hinted that a first-party Xbox handheld is still several years away.
Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X, reportedly in full production, is slated for release in 2027. This aligns with Xbox president Sarah Bond's statement about Microsoft's commitment to advancing next-generation hardware with significant technological leaps.
Amidst the buzz about new gaming hardware, Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested that future gaming might depend less on traditional consoles. This perspective comes as major companies like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to develop new hardware. Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 is set to be showcased in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, with fans eagerly awaiting details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.
