ASUS Teases Xbox Handheld Device

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 shared a teaser featuring a "little robot friend cooking something up," offering a sneak peek at an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.

Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft's video game hardware plans, which reportedly include a full next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld that might hit the market later in 2025.

The handheld device shown in ASUS's teaser displays buttons typical of Xbox consoles (Y, B, A, and X), rather than the configurations seen on PlayStation or Nintendo devices. It also features a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional smaller buttons, though these are not clearly visible.

Adding to the excitement, the official Xbox account responded to the teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at a forthcoming reveal.

pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka

— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025

Although specifics on the reveal date and launch window remain undisclosed, the monitor in the teaser boasts "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and a "fresh look!" These phrases suggest potential unique selling points for the handheld.

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 produced by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), such as ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.

While this Xbox-branded gaming handheld isn't a direct Microsoft console, the company is reportedly gearing up to release its own console in 2027, coinciding with its next-gen Xbox. Microsoft gaming chief Phil Spencer has hinted that a first-party Xbox handheld is still several years away.

The successor to the Xbox Series X is now 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 the most significant technological leap in a generation.

Amidst these developments, speculation about the future of gaming consoles continues. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, predicts a shift away from traditional consoles, even as major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo forge ahead with new hardware. Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 is set to be unveiled in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, with fans eager to learn about its features, release date, and pre-order details.