Tag: Asus ROG Ally

May 7, 2025
Asus ROG Ally 2 Leaked Specs: 50% Larger Battery for Gaming Handheld
Key Takeaways
1. Asus is introducing two new ROG Ally gaming handheld models, replacing the original ROG Ally but not the ROG Ally X.
2. The black model (RC73XA) will feature the Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset, while the white model (RC73YA) will likely have a quad-core AMD Aerith Plus APU.
3. The black model is expected to include 2 TB of storage and 64 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, while the white model will have 1 TB of storage and 16 GB of RAM.
4. The white version will have a 60 Wh battery, a 50% increase from the original, and both models will feature 7-inch displays, with the black model offering 1080p resolution and 120 Hz refresh rate.
5. The black model may be marketed as the ROG Ally 2 (Xbox Edition) and will be more powerful than the white variant, but release dates for both models are still unannounced.
Earlier today, images of two new Asus ROG Ally gaming handhelds were seen online. It appears that these new models will only take the place of the original ROG Ally, not the ROG Ally X as well. From what we’ve talked about earlier, only the black model (RC73XA) shown above is expected to feature AMD’s much-anticipated Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset.
Additional Specifications
Thanks to some digging by @94G8LA, we can now learn a bit more about both models. For instance, Asus seems to be pairing the Ryzen Z2 Extreme with 2 TB of M.2 2280 storage and a maximum of 64 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, which is clocked at an impressive 8,533 MT/s. On the other hand, the white model (RC73YA) is likely to come with 1 TB of storage and 16 GB of RAM.
Battery and Display Features
Moreover, the screenshot below indicates that the white version will have a 60 Wh battery, which is a 50% increase in capacity compared to the original ROG Ally (currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon). Both ROG Ally 2 models seem to be equipped with 7-inch displays made by BOE. However, we can only see that the black variant will have a 1080p resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
According to @94G8LA, the black model might actually be introduced as the ROG Ally 2 (Xbox Edition). While the precise function of its dedicated Xbox button is still unclear, the device is expected to be more powerful than the white version. Right now, it looks like the white variant will use a quad-core AMD Aerith Plus APU with a 20 W TDP, while the Ryzen Z2 Extreme in the black version has a 36 W TDP. No information regarding the release dates has been shared yet either.
Source:
Link

Tags: Asus ROG Ally, ROG Ally 2, Ryzen Z2 Extreme
April 30, 2025
ASUS ROG Ally and ROG Ally X Get Major New Updates
Key Takeaways
1. Asus has released a significant update (V32.0.13031.9000) for the ROG Ally X and original ROG Ally without prior announcement.
2. The update introduces support for AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1 (AFMF 2.1), enhancing image quality and reducing ghosting effects.
3. AFMF 2.1 does not require additional hardware compared to its predecessor, AFMF 2.
4. There may be regional availability issues, with some users unable to see the update for their devices.
5. The new drivers could improve image quality but may cause crashes in games like The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered.
Without any prior notice, Asus has rolled out a significant update for the ROG Ally X and the original ROG Ally, which is currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon. The company has not officially announced this update on its forums. Rather, users have discovered new graphics drivers listed on Asus’ product support pages.
New Features in the Update
The new update introduces V32.0.13031.9000, which brings support for AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1 (AFMF 2.1) to both devices. To summarize, AFMF 2.1 was launched in March without additional hardware needs compared to AFMF 2. However, version 2.1 is said to enhance image quality while reducing ghosting effects. You can check the video below to see some popular AAA games making use of AFMF 2 and AFMF 2.1.
Availability Issues
Some early reports indicate that V32.0.13031.9000 might not be visible for the ROG Ally in certain regions. If you’re experiencing this issue with either the ROG Ally or ROG Ally X, you can manually download Asus’ latest graphics drivers using the links provided below. These drivers are available on Asus’ official website. While the new drivers might enhance image quality in some situations, they could also lead to crashes when launching The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered.
Source:
Link
Tags: AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1, Asus ROG Ally, graphics drivers update
April 25, 2025
Free Closed Alpha: New Roguelite Blends MOBA and RPG on Discord
Key Takeaways
1. Game Announcement: Raiders of Blackveil is the first game from Wombo Games, founded by former Square Enix chief creative officer Janos Flösser.
2. Multiplayer Roguelite Concept: The game is a multiplayer roguelite where teams of up to three animal champions break into a mega-corporation, causing destruction and escaping with loot.
3. Character Classes: There are eight character classes (Mage, Assassin, Priest, Guardian, Monk, Druid, Warrior, Warlock), with four currently available that fit traditional roles like tank, damage dealer, and support.
4. Early Access and Testing: The game is set to release on Steam Early Access this summer, with a closed alpha test available for free on Discord for macOS and Windows users.
5. Future Development: Wombo Games intends to expand the game further, hinting at the addition of more champions and features as it evolves.
Raiders of Blackveil has been officially announced as the first game from Wombo Games, a new indie studio started by former Square Enix chief creative officer, Janos Flösser. While Raiders of Blackveil is primarily a multiplayer roguelite, it incorporates a diverse blend of elements and mechanics from various other genres, presenting what appears to be an exciting concept.
Gameplay Overview
In Raiders of Blackveil, players join forces in teams of up to three powerful animal champions to break into a nefarious mega-corporation, cause as much destruction as they can, and then make their escape. The game is heavily influenced by MOBA mechanics, featuring four distinct playable champions, while also encouraging players to search for loot during each run. This loot can include special currencies, equipment, gadgets, and unique legendary items that give your character’s setup special abilities.
Character Classes
The game boasts eight different character classes: Mage, Assassin, Priest, Guardian, Monk, Druid, Warrior, and Warlock. Each class comes with its own perks and synergies, enhancing the strategic elements of gameplay. At the moment, the four available heroes fit into traditional roles like tank, damage dealer, and support. However, Wombo Games has mentioned that Raiders of Blackveil is “our baby, and we intend to see it mature,” hinting at the addition of more champions in the future.
Early Access and Testing
Wombo Games has announced that the Steam Early Access version will be released with at least the following features:
Although Raiders of Blackveil is expected to be available on Steam Early Access “this summer,” the developers have provided a closed alpha test version for free through Discord for both macOS and Windows users. Be advised: bugs may be an issue in this version, but participating in the alpha test will assist the developers in refining the game before the official release. As the game is only available for download through Discord, handheld players are restricted to devices like the Asus ROG Ally (currently priced at $649.99 at Best Buy), unless they want to go through the hassle of manually setting up the game with options like Steam, Bottles, or WINE on SteamOS.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Raiders of Blackveil, Wombo Games
April 24, 2025
Figment e-ink Handheld: Transform Books into Interactive Games
Key Takeaways
1. E-ink displays offer excellent readability in bright sunlight and consume very little energy but have slow refresh rates, making them unsuitable for gaming.
2. Figment’s new gaming handheld will feature a 7.5-inch e-ink display, designed primarily for text-based games and interactive storytelling.
3. The device is powered by a low-performance ESP32 processor, sufficient for displaying text and images but requiring an internet connection for certain features.
4. The Figment handheld can display standard books offline, providing flexibility for users.
5. The project is still in early development, and interested individuals can sign up for updates on its progress.
E-ink displays are designed to mimic real paper, and the latest models perform remarkably well, allowing for easy reading in bright sunlight and boasting very low energy use. However, their slow refresh rates make them generally unsuitable for gaming handhelds.
A Unique Gaming Experience
Despite this, Figment plans to incorporate an e-ink screen in its new gaming handheld, which is mainly geared toward text-based games or “Choose Your Own Adventure” style books. Specifically, Figment has chosen a 7.5-inch e-ink display housed in a casing about the same size as an Asus ROG Ally. The device features a D-pad with four buttons on the left and three action buttons on the right.
Prototype and Performance
The current version is built with a 3D-printed shell and powered by an ESP32 processor, which is not very strong. Nevertheless, since the handheld only needs to show text and images, Figment doesn’t require high performance. One drawback of the slower processor is that some features necessitate an active internet connection. This mainly includes the ability to create “Choose Your Own Adventure” games from existing e-books using AI technology.
Future Developments
On the bright side, Figment can still display standard books without needing an internet connection. The project is still in development and at an early phase, so it remains uncertain if the Figment handheld will ever reach store shelves. Those interested in Figment can sign up with their email to stay informed about this fascinating project.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, E Ink Display, Figment
April 18, 2025
Asus ROG Ally Upgrade Kit for Extended Battery Life & Cooling
Key Takeaways
1. The Asus ROG Ally X offers enhancements over the standard Asus ROG Ally, including faster RAM and a larger battery for longer playtime.
2. The Jsaux Battery & Thermal Upgrade Kit allows users to upgrade the original Asus ROG Ally’s battery capacity from 40Wh to 65Wh, significantly improving battery life.
3. Installation of the upgrade kit is manageable for those with moderate skills, taking less than 15 minutes, and includes all necessary tools.
4. The upgrade kit features a new battery and an extra heatsink for improved cooling, requiring a replacement of the backplate.
5. The Jsaux Battery and Thermal Upgrade Kit is available for preorder at $79, with shipping expected to start in early May.
The Asus ROG Ally X and the standard Asus ROG Ally are quite well-liked among gaming handhelds, with the Ally X making a positive mark in our detailed review. The Ally X has some enhancements compared to the base version, like quicker RAM and a much bigger battery for extended playtime.
Upgrade Options
With the Jsaux Battery & Thermal Upgrade Kit, it’s now pretty simple to upgrade the original version of this gaming handheld. We’ve mentioned earlier that the new battery boosts the capacity by over 50%, increasing it from 40Wh to 65Wh, to be precise. In contrast, the Asus ROG Ally X boasts an impressive 80Wh. Still, this upgrade kit is expected to noticeably enhance battery life.
Installation Process
A video uploaded by Jsaux is included below, demonstrating the upgrade procedure step-by-step. Gamers with moderate skills shouldn’t face too many challenges while installing the kit, even though there are some tricky parts. For example, the case of the handheld needs to be opened, but all the essential tools are provided in the kit, and the whole project is said to take less than 15 minutes. The kit also features the new battery along with an extra heatsink, which aids in better cooling. Additionally, the backplate must be switched out since the original one won’t fit post-upgrade.
The Jsaux Battery and Thermal Upgrade Kit for the Asus ROG Ally is currently available for preorder at a price of $79. Shipping is expected to start in early May.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Gaming Handhelds, Jsaux Battery Upgrade Kit
April 9, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 vs ASUS ROG Ally: Handheld Gaming Comparison
Key Takeaways
1. Hybrid Design: The Nintendo Switch 2 features a hybrid design with three modes (handheld, tabletop, TV) and detachable JoyCons for multiplayer gaming.
2. Display: Both the Nintendo Switch 2 and ASUS ROG Ally have 1080p screens with a 120Hz refresh rate, but the Switch 2 has a larger 7.9-inch display compared to the ROG Ally’s 7-inch screen.
3. Performance: The ROG Ally is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, offering robust performance for a wide range of PC games, while the Switch 2 includes a custom Nvidia processor for 4K gaming when docked.
4. Game Library: The ROG Ally provides access to a vast library of PC games, whereas the Switch 2 is known for its exclusive titles like Mario and The Legend of Zelda.
5. Pricing and Availability: The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release on June 5, 2025, at a price of $449.99, while the ROG Ally is already available, with prices ranging from $600 to $700.
The handheld gaming market is becoming more competitive with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. Since the original Switch came out, many new models have appeared, like the ASUS ROG Ally and the Steam Deck. We’ve already compared the Switch 2 to the Steam Deck, so now it’s time to see how Nintendo’s new device measures up against the ROG Ally.
Design and Display Features
A major perk of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its unique hybrid design. It offers flexibility with three different modes: handheld, tabletop, and TV. The JoyCons can be removed, which makes multiplayer gaming more enjoyable. It features a 7.9-inch LCD screen, boasting a 1080p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.
ASUS ROG Ally Overview
In contrast, the ASUS ROG Ally resembles the Steam Deck more as a traditional gaming handheld. It has a 7-inch display surrounded by a conventional controller layout. Unlike the Switch, these controls are not detachable and are designed for solo gameplay. The ROG Ally also features a 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Performance and Game Library
The ROG Ally is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, making it one of the more robust handhelds that can handle a wide range of PC games. This chip includes RDNA 3 graphics, 6GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD. Its 40Wh battery pack runs the device, which weighs in at 608 grams. While battery life was critiqued, newer models like the ROG Ally X have made significant enhancements. The Ally X includes an 80Wh battery, 24GB of RAM, better joysticks, and improved cooling. Being a Windows PC, it provides access to a vast library of games from popular platforms such as Steam.
Nintendo Switch 2 Specifications
Although details about the hardware are scarce, the Nintendo Switch 2 features a custom Nvidia processor that supports 4K gaming when docked for TV play. Docking boosts the console’s performance, but it can still be used in handheld mode thanks to its 5,220mAh battery. Nintendo is famous for its beloved exclusive franchises, including Mario and The Legend of Zelda, offering unique gaming experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled for a release on June 5, 2025, priced at 449.99 US Dollars. In comparison, the ROG Ally comes in various configurations ranging from 600 to 700 US Dollars. However, unlike the Switch 2, it’s already on the market, including the upgraded Ally X model.
Ultimately, the choice between the Nintendo Switch 2 and the ASUS ROG Ally largely hinges on your gaming preferences. If you love Nintendo’s exclusive games and want the versatility of a hybrid console, the Switch 2 is a strong contender. On the other hand, the ROG Ally offers access to an extensive PC game library and includes Windows 11 features as well.
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, handheld gaming, Nintendo Switch 2
April 2, 2025
New Xbox Console Could Use Gaming-Friendly Windows UI Over SteamOS
Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft is developing a portable PC, Project Kennan, that aims to merge gaming console interfaces with a handheld Xbox running on Windows.
2. A new Windows 11 preview build may introduce Xbox-style menus and improve the gaming experience on handheld devices.
3. The Asus ROG Ally struggles to compete with the user-friendly Steam Deck, which offers a hassle-free gaming setup.
4. Minor updates to Windows gaming features, like a minimized Game Bar and on-screen keyboard for controllers, are steps toward enhancing handheld gaming.
5. Speculation exists about a new Xbox console launching in 2027, also running on Windows, with user-friendliness essential for success.
Plans are moving forward for a portable PC from Asus that Microsoft is backing. Through what’s called Project Kennan, Microsoft is looking to combine the interface from its gaming consoles with a handheld Xbox that runs on Windows. But, as it stands, using the operating system can be tricky with just a d-pad and buttons. A new preview build of Windows 11 could show how Microsoft plans to tackle this issue.
A Glimpse into Development
According to a post on BlueSky, Windows Central has found an intriguing mention of “Gaming_GamingPosture_ChooseHomeApp.” This wording was spotted in a language pack linked to a Windows 11 development build. Users might be able to start their device in full-screen or pick from interface options that likely feature new Xbox-style menus. Depending on how well it’s done, this software could enhance the gaming experience on an Xbox handheld.
Competing with the Steam Deck
Up until now, devices like the Asus ROG Ally haven’t quite matched the ease of use found in the Steam Deck. With SteamOS, Valve’s device allows players to install and start games without much hassle. Unlike a desktop where finding games can be a chore, the Steam Deck is designed with controllers in mind. Even if other devices boast more powerful specs, many gamers lean toward the Steam Deck due to its user-friendly approach.
Progress in Windows Gaming Features
Microsoft has made minor tweaks to Windows and its gaming capabilities. The Game Bar can now minimize, making it easier to use on smaller screens. Plus, controllers can now enter search terms using an on-screen keyboard. However, these adjustments are only baby steps toward turning Windows handhelds into real gaming machines. The upcoming Windows 11 preview build will be the first chance to see how these changes perform on a handheld device.
There’s speculation that Project Kennan could hint at another Xbox console being launched in 2027. Rumors suggest that Microsoft is working on a successor to the Xbox Series X. But, similar to the Asus handheld, this console would also run on Windows. How user-friendly it is with a controller will be crucial for its success.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Microsoft, Steam Deck
March 25, 2025
YouTuber Installs SteamOS on Asus ROG Ally Successfully
Key Takeaways
1. A proper SteamOS version for other handheld devices is still in development, and Bazzite lacks many features of the true SteamOS.
2. YouTuber The Phawx successfully ran SteamOS 3.8 on the Asus ROG Ally, showcasing potential for the platform.
3. SteamOS is functioning well on the ROG Ally, but issues like a stuck TDP slider and unrecognized controller back paddles remain.
4. The Steam Deck outperforms the ROG Ally despite having older hardware, thanks to Valve’s software optimizations.
5. Future performance may improve with the release of Ryzen Z2 and Ryzen Z2 Extreme, depending on OEM adjustments.
It might take some time before a proper SteamOS version is released for other handheld devices. While Bazzite is a solid option, it doesn’t come close to offering all the features of the real SteamOS. On the brighter side, YouTuber and handheld specialist The Phawx has successfully gotten SteamOS 3.8 to run on an Asus ROG Ally.
SteamOS Performance
Most functions of SteamOS seem to be operating smoothly. The system recognizes the ROG Ally’s 120 Hz display and even includes a toggle for VRR. Nonetheless, the TDP slider is stuck at 15 Watts, and the controller isn’t being recognized correctly, which leaves the back paddles not working. Since this is still an early version of SteamOS, there’s a lot of work needed before it can be used on other devices.
Comparison with Steam Deck
When it comes to performance, the Steam Deck’s unique Van Gogh APU actually beats the ROG Ally’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme, even though it’s an older generation and has less powerful hardware. This can likely be credited to Valve’s software optimizations tailored for the Steam Deck.
Future Prospects
Things are expected to change once the Ryzen Z2 and Ryzen Z2 Extreme are released. However, the specific adjustments made by OEMs will play a key role in determining which option offers the best value for your money.
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Steam Deck, SteamOS
March 14, 2025
New Xbox Handheld Details Leaked Ahead of 2025 Release
Key Takeaways
1. Despite the Steam Deck’s popularity, competitors like Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go have not surpassed its sales, with Valve selling fewer than five million units in three years.
2. Microsoft is set to release its first Xbox-branded handheld, called Project Kennan, in collaboration with Asus, expected later this year.
3. Project Kennan is anticipated to be priced between $499 and $599 and will feature an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go APU, which reportedly offers a weaker gaming experience than the Ryzen Z1 Extreme.
4. The device will primarily function as a Windows PC, meaning that most Xbox games will not be playable on it, which may disappoint potential users.
5. Overall, Project Kennan appears to be just another Windows gaming handheld with performance comparable to existing devices, raising doubts about its market impact given Microsoft’s history with product launches.
An increasing number of companies are trying to take advantage of the Steam Deck’s popularity, even though Valve has sold less than five million units in three years. The Asus ROG Ally and the Lenovo Legion Go (currently $549.99 – refurbished on Amazon) are among the most notable competitors, but their sales still haven’t outdone those of the Steam Deck.
Microsoft’s New Venture
Now, Microsoft is anticipated to release its first Xbox-branded handheld gaming device later this year. Reports from various sources indicate that Microsoft is collaborating with Asus on the development of this device, which Windows Central has confirmed is called Project Kennan, not Project Keenan as previously thought.
Pricing and Performance Insights
According to a fresh report, Xbox Project Kennan is expected to be priced between $499 and $599, featuring an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go APU. When we looked at the Legion Go S, we found out that the Ryzen Z2 Go does not offer a robust gaming experience. In fact, it performs significantly worse than the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, despite being two years younger.
Windows Central also mentions that there will be an additional SKU for Xbox Project Kennan. However, there’s uncertainty whether this pricier option will come with a stronger chipset or just extra memory. Importantly, the website highlights that the device will be “a proof of concept of sorts,” carrying a crucial caveat:
For those expecting Kennan to play Xbox games, it’s disappointing to note that it is fundamentally a Windows PC. This means that most of your Xbox games will not be available on the device.
The Bottom Line
In essence, Xbox Project Kennan is just another Windows gaming handheld, similar to the Legion Go, ROG Ally, and others that have come before it. Alarmingly, it seems that its performance benchmarks are only on par with current-generation handhelds or even less impressive, lacking the power of a Strix Halo APU. Given Microsoft’s history of launching products late and its many failed ventures, it’s hard to see how Xbox Project Kennan will make a significant impact when it debuts later this year.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Steam Deck, Xbox Project Kennan
March 11, 2025
Wistron Dual Fusion: iF Design Award-Winning Laptop and Handheld
Key Takeaways
1. The Lenovo Legion Go and Asus ROG Ally are marketed as gaming handhelds but are essentially Windows PCs.
2. Wistron’s Dual Fusion reimagines the gaming handheld by transforming it into a laptop-like device.
3. The Dual Fusion features a unique design with a trackpad that is actually a screen connected to a removable casing.
4. The device is currently in the conceptual stage and is not intended for sale.
5. The Dual Fusion has received an iF Design Award, highlighting its innovative design.
Devices such as the Lenovo Legion Go and Asus ROG Ally (curr. $406.99 – refurbished on Amazon) have been trying hard to present themselves as gaming handhelds over the past few years, even though they operate as Windows PCs at their core. Wistron has turned this idea upside down with the Dual Fusion, creating a device that essentially transforms a gaming handheld into a laptop.
Unique Design Features
At first glance, the Dual Fusion appears to be a small laptop with a large trackpad. However, this trackpad is actually a screen connected to a removable casing, similar to Acer’s Project DualPlay concept that was displayed at IFA 2024 last September. While the Project DualPlay envisions this detachable part as a game controller, the Dual Fusion cleverly utilizes hinges to conceal the gaming handheld’s buttons when they’re not in action.
Conceptual Stage
It’s important to note that the Dual Fusion is a concept and not a product meant for sale, similar to the previous Compal Infinite. Therefore, it’s improbable that we will ever see it launched in its existing format, if at all. Nevertheless, this proof of concept has received an iF Design Award, indicating that Wistron invested in having the Dual Fusion evaluated by iF Design.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, Wistron Dual Fusion