Tag: handheld gaming

  • AYN Thor Shines in New Demo Videos and Live Photos

    AYN Thor Shines in New Demo Videos and Live Photos

    Key Takeaways

    1. AYN Thor is set to start shipping in mid-October, with live photos and demo videos being shared in the meantime.
    2. Demo videos show the AYN Thor playing Nintendo 3DS games, utilizing both screens and touch controls.
    3. The device will be available in four color options, including a Clear Purple version that reveals internal components.
    4. Pre-orders for the AYN Thor start at $249 for the Lite version, with various models priced up to $429 for the Max version.
    5. AYN offers a range of accessories for the handheld, with individual prices and a bundle option for savings.

    The AYN Thor is expected to begin shipping in the middle of October if everything goes as planned. While customers wait for their orders to arrive, AYN has been releasing live photos and demo videos showcasing the handheld device. Recently, they shared a video that highlights the custom software created for this dual-screen gaming handheld. They also released some live images of one of the four available color options. Now, they’ve added two new demo videos and additional live photos displaying all the colors offered.

    Demo Videos of AYN Thor

    In one of the recent demo videos, the AYN Thor is seen playing several Nintendo 3DS games, including Mario Golf World Tour, Rayman Origins, and Super Mario 3D Land. All three titles utilize both screens on the AYN Thor, showing either a map, progress bar, or instructions. The demo also illustrates that players can use touch controls for compatible games, and switch between the main screen and the secondary one.

    Live Photos and Color Options

    The other video also showcases various Nintendo 3DS and DS games, but this time it features the Clear Purple version of the AYN Thor instead of the black variant shown previously. The live photos reveal all four color options, offering a closer look at the purple model that has a see-through shell, allowing visibility of the internal components of the device.

    Pre-Order and Pricing Details

    Customers can pre-order the AYN Thor from the AYN website, starting at $249 for the Lite version, which is equipped with a Snapdragon 865 processor, 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM, and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage. The price increases to $299 for the Base model, which boasts the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor while retaining the same RAM and storage as the Lite version, although upgraded to LPDDR5x and UFS 4.0.

    The Pro and Max models also feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. However, the Pro model has 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, priced at $349, while the Max model offers 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, costing $429. Additionally, AYN is offering accessories for the handheld, including a $12 carrying case, a $15 TPU grip case, a $15 TPU transparent shell, a $10 pack of two screen protectors, a $5 soft pouch, and a lanyard for $3. Customers can buy these items individually or save $10 by choosing the accessory pack for $50 instead.

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  • AyaNeo Pocket S Mini: New Compact Handheld with 4:3 Display

    AyaNeo Pocket S Mini: New Compact Handheld with 4:3 Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. AyaNeo is launching the Pocket S Mini, a compact handheld gaming device with a 4:3 aspect ratio, in March 2026.
    2. The Pocket S Mini enhances features from the original Pocket S, which is powered by the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 Gaming Platform.
    3. The Pocket S Mini is expected to have a screen size around 4.2 inches, with a focus on custom display technology.
    4. It will be available in black and white with illuminated controls, promoting “Explosive Performance, Stunning Looks.”
    5. Buyers of the Pocket Air Mini will receive a 300 Yuan voucher for the Pocket S Mini as part of a promotional bundle.

    AyaNeo has unveiled the Pocket S Mini, a compact handheld gaming device featuring a 4:3 aspect ratio. This device is designed to fit easily into your pocket and is set to launch in March 2026. The Pocket S Mini enhances the features of its larger counterpart, the Pocket S.

    Specifications of the Original Pocket S

    The original AyaNeo Pocket S, currently priced at $450 on Amazon with a discount coupon, was released in 2024. It is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 Gaming Platform, which includes an 8-core Kyro CPU and an Adreno A32 GPU. The device has a 6-inch borderless IPS touchscreen available in both 1080P and 1440P resolutions. It comes equipped with hall sensor joysticks, linear hall triggers, and advanced cooling technology designed to maintain a 15W performance level.

    Features of the New Pocket S Mini

    In contrast, the Pocket S Mini, which was teased on the Retro Handhelds Discord server, features a smaller screen with a traditional 4:3 aspect ratio. Although the exact screen size has not been officially confirmed, many in the community believe it will be around 4.2 inches. AyaNeo has emphasized its expertise in display technology, making bold claims about custom screen panels for previous models like the Pocket Air Mini. Given the design similarities, it is possible that the Pocket S Mini utilizes the same custom panel, but this remains unverified by official channels. Like the Pocket S, the Mini is also powered by the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chipset.

    Color Options and Promotions

    The Pocket S Mini will be available in black and white, featuring illuminated controls. In their promotional material, AyaNeo describes the device as offering “Explosive Performance, Stunning Looks.” Additionally, buyers who purchase the Pocket Air Mini will receive a 300 Yuan voucher for the Pocket S Mini as part of a promotional bundle. AyaNeo’s launch announcement targets users who “have spent half a lifetime pursuing a high-performance retro 4:3 handheld.”

    AyaNeo Pocket S Mini: New Compact Handheld with 4:3 DisplayAyaNeo Pocket S Mini: New Compact Handheld with 4:3 DisplayAyaNeo Pocket S Mini: New Compact Handheld with 4:3 Display

     

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  • AYN Thor Software and Gameplay Video Demo Released

    AYN Thor Software and Gameplay Video Demo Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. AYN Thor features dual-screen functionality, allowing users to run a game on one screen while streaming video on another, with an easy content-switching Focus Mode menu.
    2. The device showcases strong emulation capabilities, running games from the Nintendo DS and 3DS, with gameplay on the larger screen and supporting information on the smaller display.
    3. Customizable settings include Fan Control options and three performance settings that can be switched with a button press.
    4. Users can personalize joystick LED colors and brightness through a quick settings shortcut, with a color wheel available for customization.
    5. The software is still in development, with room for improvement, and the AYN Thor is available for pre-order starting at $249.

    There’s still a month left before shipping begins for the AYN Thor, but AYN continues to tease us with fresh updates. Following the release of several live images, they have now shared a video that demonstrates the device in action. This clip also provides insight into how the software operates.

    Device Features in Action

    In the initial minute of the video, posted on AYN’s official YouTube channel, the AYN Thor is displayed running a game on one screen while simultaneously streaming a video on another. Viewers can see that users will have the ability to easily switch content between the two screens using the Focus Mode menu. This menu allows users to lock the focus on either display or set it to automatic, where the main screen is the one that gets tapped.

    Emulation Capabilities

    The video also features the handheld emulating games from the Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS. The larger screen showcases the gameplay, while the smaller display provides relevant information like maps.

    AYN emphasizes some quick settings, including Fan Control, which gives users the option to choose between smart mode, sports mode, or a custom mode. Users can also switch between three performance settings with just a button press.

    Customizable LED Options

    Moreover, the AYN Thor will include a quick settings shortcut for the joystick’s LED menu. Users can either pick a preset color or choose from a color wheel located on the left side of the screen. The menu also allows for adjustments to the brightness and contrast of the LEDs.

    Although not explicitly mentioned, there was a sneak peek of a quick settings shortcut for enabling bypass charging. AYN has labeled this feature Direct Power Supply, which should permit the AYN Thor to draw power directly from a wall adapter instead of relying on the battery when plugged in. A similar feature called “charging separation” is currently available on the AYN Odin 2, which can be found on Amazon for $339.

    Final Thoughts on Software

    When compared to the software on the Ayaneo Pocket DS, the AYN Thor seems less refined. However, since AYN indicates that the software displayed in the video is not the final version, there’s still potential for enhancements.

    The AYN Thor is now up for pre-order, with prices starting at $249, available on the AYN website.

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  • Atari Gamestation Go Pre-Order Now for Under $200 Before October

    Atari Gamestation Go Pre-Order Now for Under $200 Before October

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Atari Gamestation Go handheld is now available for pre-order, featuring a unique capability not found in other handheld consoles.
    2. It includes a 7-inch color screen and a variety of controls, including a D-pad, trackball, and ABXY buttons, along with a built-in kickstand.
    3. The device is pre-loaded with over 200 classic Atari games from various consoles, including popular titles like PAC-MAN and Asteroids.
    4. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi for updates, HDMI out, and USB-C, plus it supports wired controllers with two ports on the back.
    5. The Gamestation Go is priced at $179.99 and is set to officially launch in October 2025, with a battery life of 4 to 5 hours of gameplay.

    First revealed at CES 2025, the Atari Gamestation Go handheld is now up for pre-order. This device boasts a unique feature that isn’t found on other handheld consoles and comes loaded with hundreds of classic Atari games. The Gamestation Go is a joint effort between Atari and My Arcade, who have previously teamed up to create consoles like the Atari Gamestation Pro, which is currently listed on Amazon for $79.99.

    Design and Features

    The Gamestation Go features a 7-inch color screen with a resolution that isn’t specified, yet the specs claim it has high resolution. The left side of the screen includes a D-pad, a trackball, and a free-spinning paddle, while the right side houses ABXY buttons and a keypad. Above the display are the start, select, settings, and credit buttons.

    Controls and Connectivity

    Additionally, the device comes equipped with shoulder and trigger buttons. On the top, you’ll find the power button, volume rocker, audio jack, HDMI out port, microSD card slot, and a USB-C port. It also includes a built-in kickstand along with two ports on the back for connecting wired controllers. One standout feature is SmartGlow, which illuminates the controls based on the game you’re playing.

    Game Library and Availability

    Atari and My Arcade have pre-loaded over 200 games, including classics from the Atari 2600, 5200, and 7800, such as Balls of Steel Pinball, PAC-MAN, Breakout: Recharged, and Berzerk Recharged. There are also arcade titles like Asteroids, Missile Command, and Tempest included.

    The Gamestation Go supports Wi-Fi for over-the-air updates, and its battery life is said to last between 4 to 5 hours of gameplay. You can pre-order the Gamestation Go directly from Atari for $179.99, and it’s also available through GameStop and EB Games. My Arcade has announced that it will officially launch in October.

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  • AYN Odin 3 Launches Worldwide as a $299 Retroid Pocket 5 Competitor

    AYN Odin 3 Launches Worldwide as a $299 Retroid Pocket 5 Competitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. AYN Technologies has launched the AYN Odin 3, replacing the popular Odin 2, with a starting price of $299 on Indiegogo.
    2. The Odin 3 features improved specifications, including options for up to 24 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage.
    3. Compared to the Retroid Pocket 5, which is priced at $219, the Odin 3 is more expensive but offers enhanced performance and features.
    4. The Odin 3 can output to a 4K external display at 60 FPS, a capability not commonly found in budget Android gaming handhelds.
    5. AYN Technologies plans to begin shipping Odin 3 orders in November 2025.

    AYN Technologies has officially launched the AYN Odin 3 worldwide, taking over from the well-liked Odin 2 (currently priced at $339 on Amazon). To summarize, the company previously introduced the AYN Thor as a competitor to the Ayaneo Pocket DS. In contrast, the Odin 3 seems to be AYN Technologies’ response to last year’s Retroid Pocket 5.

    Pricing and Features Overview

    For some background, the Pocket 5 is priced at $219 and comes equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, a 5,000 mAh battery, and a 5.5-inch AMOLED screen limited to 60 Hz. Additionally, this handheld device can only be set up with 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128 GB of UFS 3.1 flash memory. In comparison, the Odin 3 showcases the following specifications across all models:

    Enhanced Specifications

    The Odin 3 is also equipped with quicker LPDDR5X RAM, maintaining the same basic memory setup as the Pocket 5 but at a 36% higher price. That said, AYN Technologies provides the Odin 3 in three more memory options, reaching up to 24 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1 TB of UFS 4.0 flash storage. Notably, the newest model can output to a 4K external display at 60 FPS, a feature that many budget Android gaming handhelds lack.

    The Odin 3 starts off at $299 on Indiegogo, featuring 8 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 128 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, which is known as the Odin 3 Base. Following that, AYN Technologies offers the Odin 3 Pro with 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256 GB of UFS 4.0 storage for $369. If you prefer, you can also choose the Odin 3 Max that comes with 16 GB RAM and 512 GB of storage for $419, or the Odin 3 Ultra which packs 24 GB RAM and 1 TB storage for $499. As of now, AYN Technologies plans to start shipping Odin 3 orders in November 2025.

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    AYN Odin 3 Launches Worldwide as a $299 Retroid Pocket 5 Competitor

     

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  • Asus ROG Xbox Ally X: Digital Foundry Warns of Poor Performance

    Asus ROG Xbox Ally X: Digital Foundry Warns of Poor Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld gaming devices will be released on October 16th.
    2. Digital Foundry’s performance tests revealed that the ROG Xbox Ally X is still a work in progress and may not meet all gamers’ expectations.
    3. Doom: The Dark Ages ran at around 50 FPS at 540p upscaled to 1080p, while Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 performed poorly at 27-30 FPS at 1080p.
    4. Digital Foundry recommends managing expectations, as the ROG Xbox Ally X is a portable device with limited thermal design power, not a home console equivalent.
    5. The performance of the ROG Xbox Ally X may improve by the release date, but current evaluations are based on pre-release software.

    The first Xbox-branded handheld gaming devices, the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X, are set to be released on October 16th. At Gamescom, various media outlets had their first experience with these portable consoles, showcasing what the new Xbox gaming experience looks like on Windows handheld devices.

    Performance Insights from Digital Foundry

    Digital Foundry took some time to evaluate the ROG Xbox Ally X. Their investigation into the console’s software suggested that it is still a work in progress. Known for their performance testing of games on both PC and console setups, they ran titles such as Doom: The Dark Ages and Clair Obscur Expedition 33 on the ROG Xbox Ally X. The findings, shared in the latest DF Direct, might not meet the expectations of some gamers.

    Game Testing Results

    DF tested Doom: The Dark Ages on the ROG Xbox Ally X at a resolution of 540p upscaled to 1080p, using low settings along with DRS and FSR 3 “Performance.” Under these conditions, the ROG Xbox Ally X was hitting around 50 FPS, which is commendable for a handheld gaming console with a limited thermal design power (TDP). The outlet pointed out that aiming for a 1080p resolution seems a tad excessive for a portable device. Aiming for a resolution of 720p would likely be more appropriate given the small 7-inch screen size.

    On the other hand, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 did not perform as well as Doom: The Dark Ages. Running at 1080p with low settings and utilizing Unreal Engine 5’s Temporal Super Resolution, the ROG Xbox Ally X managed only about 27-30 FPS in the game’s initial level.

    Managing Expectations

    Based on this performance, DF cautioned that gamers anticipating the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X to deliver a home console experience with consistent frame rates in AAA titles “should temper their hopes.” Even with a robust Z2 Extreme APU featuring Zen 5 CPU cores and an RDNA 3.5 iGPU, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X remains a portable gaming device with a constrained power budget.

    That being said, the ROG Xbox Ally X units that DF evaluated were likely operating on pre-release software. Therefore, it wouldn’t be surprising if the performance improves a little by the time the ROG Xbox Ally X is officially released. Nonetheless, this remains speculation, and we’ll need to get our hands on the console before making any final assessments.

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  • AYN Launches Odin 3 in 3 Colors + Community Choice for 4th Color

    AYN Launches Odin 3 in 3 Colors + Community Choice for 4th Color

    Key Takeaways

    1. AYN’s new Odin 3 handheld will be available in four colors: Black, White, Rainbow, and a community-chosen color.
    2. The Rainbow option features an off-white design with gray thumbsticks and colorful ABXY buttons.
    3. The community is voting for the fourth color, with options of Clear Blue and Clear Purple, currently leaning towards Clear Purple.
    4. The Odin 3 boasts a 6-inch 120Hz FHD AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a strong 8,000mAh battery.
    5. Pricing details are not yet available, but it may be higher than the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, which is expected to start below $399.

    AYN has recently disclosed some color choices for their new Odin 3 handheld, following their earlier announcements about its design and processor specifics. The handheld will come in four vibrant colors, with one color determined by the official AYN community.

    Color Variants of Odin 3

    So far, AYN has shown off the handheld in a sleek Black color. Besides this, it will also be offered in a crisp White that has matching buttons. The third option, named Rainbow, features an off-white shade combined with gray thumbsticks and D-pad, along with colorful ABXY buttons in red, yellow, green, and blue.

    Community Choice for Fourth Color

    For the fourth color, AYN is letting the community decide through a poll on their official forums (Discord and QQ). The options are either Clear Blue or Clear Purple, both showcasing a see-through design. Currently, 51% of the voters on Discord have selected Clear Purple, while 49% prefer Clear Blue. The voting will last for 24 hours, and the final color decision will be announced tomorrow, September 3.

    Specifications Recap

    To summarize, the Odin 3 features a 6-inch 120Hz FHD AMOLED display, powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and a robust 8,000mAh battery. This Android-based handheld is equipped with asymmetrical thumbsticks that have RGB lighting, dual back buttons, front-facing speakers, an audio jack, a MicroSD card slot, and a USB-C port. Its dimensions are reported as 224.8 x 87.5 x 16.6 mm, and it weighs approximately 390 grams.

    There’s currently no pricing information available, but it’s yet to be revealed if it will be more affordable than the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, which is expected to start below $399 and is rumored to run on the same Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. Unlike the Konkr Fit Elite, which boasts a 144Hz 1080p LCD, the Odin 3’s 120Hz 1080p OLED display might drive the price higher.

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  • AYN Unveils First Look at Odin 3 with Familiar Design

    AYN Unveils First Look at Odin 3 with Familiar Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Odin 3 features a new design inspired by the Odin 2 Portal, with a completely flat display compared to the previous model’s curved edges.
    2. It will have asymmetrical joysticks and a D-pad similar to the Odin 2 Portal, but the ABXY button layout will follow a Nintendo Switch style.
    3. The handheld will include textured thumbsticks with RGB ring lights, a microSD card slot, an audio jack, and a USB-C port.
    4. The speaker grilles on the Odin 3 are larger with more openings, and the device has a matte finish to reduce fingerprints.
    5. Technical specifications for the Odin 3 have not yet been announced, but more details are expected to be revealed gradually.

    A few weeks after announcing its plans for a new version of the Odin 2, AYN Technologies has shared the first glimpse of the upcoming handheld device, now known as the Odin 3. The image indicates that the Odin 3 will feature a design different from its predecessor, taking inspiration from the Odin 2 Portal, but with some modifications.

    Display and Design Changes

    The Odin 3 seems to come with a bigger screen than the previous model, though it’s unclear if it matches the display size of the Odin 2 Portal. In contrast to the Odin 2 Portal, which has a screen that curves at the edges near the buttons and is sold on Amazon for $539.95, the Odin 3 offers a completely flat display.

    Controller Layout and Features

    The visual of the Odin 3 suggests that it will include asymmetrical joysticks and the same D-pad design found on the Odin 2 Portal, with similar placements for the additional buttons. However, unlike the Xbox layout for the ABXY buttons seen in its predecessor, AYN has opted for a Nintendo Switch layout, similar to what was used with the AYN Thor. Even though some users may not favor this choice, AYN is likely to offer ABXY buttons with an Xbox configuration as a separate add-on.

    Additional Specifications and Expectations

    The illustration of the Odin 3 reveals that the handheld’s thumbsticks will have textured surfaces along with RGB ring lights. On the bottom, there will be a microSD card slot, an audio jack, and a USB-C port. The speaker grilles are also noticeably larger, featuring more openings. Additionally, the Odin 3 seems to have a matte finish, which is a positive change from the glossy front of the Odin 2 Portal that attracted fingerprints easily.

    Currently, AYN has not disclosed the technical specifications for the Odin 3, but it is anticipated that further information will be revealed soon. We can expect the details to be released gradually, similar to how the company shared information about the dual-screen AYN Thor.

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  • Ayaneo Konkr Pocket Fit Launches at Lower Price than Expected

    Ayaneo Konkr Pocket Fit Launches at Lower Price than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. The starting price for the Konkr Pocket Fit is now under $329, lower than the previously stated price of less than $369.
    2. The Konkr Pocket Fit is part of Ayaneo’s budget-friendly handheld line, aimed at attracting more buyers compared to higher-priced models.
    3. The price drop helps differentiate the Konkr Pocket Fit from the Pocket Fit Elite, which is expected to feature a more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
    4. The Konkr Pocket Fit will feature a 6-inch 1080p display with a 144Hz refresh rate and run on the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3.
    5. Additional features include Hall Effect joysticks and triggers with dual-mode trigger locks, an 8,000mAh battery, and availability in three colors.

    Ayaneo has shared new pricing information for its upcoming handheld device, the Konkr Pocket Fit. In a recent livestream, the company announced a price that is even lower than what was previously stated.

    Pocket Fit and Pocket Fit Elite

    The Pocket Fit is one of two new handhelds from Ayaneo’s Konkr brand, with the second being the Pocket Fit Elite. Originally, Ayaneo disclosed that the starting price for the Pocket Fit Elite would be under $399. Furthermore, the starting price for the Pocket Fit was set at less than $369. However, during their livestream on August 23, the company surprised everyone by announcing the new starting price for the Pocket Fit at under $329.

    Reasons for the Price Drop

    While a reduced price is certainly a positive change, there are a couple of reasons to consider why this might have happened. The Konkr brand is intended to be Ayaneo’s line of more budget-friendly handhelds. While $369 is reasonable compared to Ayaneo’s other models like the Pocket S2, which begins at $499, a further reduction is likely to attract more hesitant buyers.

    Moreover, the price cut on the Pocket Fit allows for a clearer distinction in pricing between the Konkr Pocket Fit and the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, which is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.

    Specifications and Features

    For less than $329, the Konkr Pocket Fit will boast a 6-inch 1080p display with a refresh rate of 144Hz. It will run on the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, offering peak performance of 20W. However, details regarding RAM and storage options have not been released yet. The handheld will also come equipped with Hall Effect joysticks and triggers, featuring dual-mode trigger locks, which Ayaneo claims to be the first of its kind on an Android handheld. Finally, the Konkr Pocket Fit will have a battery capacity of 8,000mAh and will be available in three different colors.

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  • ROG Xbox Ally Full Screen Needs Restart for Optimization Fixes

    ROG Xbox Ally Full Screen Needs Restart for Optimization Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X launch on October 16, 2025, in the U.S., offering a new Windows handheld gaming experience.
    2. A key feature is the task switcher, allowing users to toggle between gaming and the Windows desktop easily.
    3. The system prioritizes gaming performance by not loading the Windows desktop at startup, but switching to it can require a restart for optimal performance.
    4. Users can customize the home app to launch directly into preferred platforms like Steam or Epic Games.
    5. The consoles are priced at $549.99 and $899.99, which may deter some buyers, but discounts may be available during sales events.

    The Asus ROG Xbox Ally and the Xbox Ally X are set to launch on October 16, 2025, in the United States. These portable consoles aim to introduce a fresh Windows handheld gaming experience that Microsoft claims offers significant enhancements. A recent video from Windows Central showcases a hands-on look at the ROG Xbox Ally on YouTube (link at the end), highlighting some of these advancements. The video features the new Xbox handheld gaming interface in action and addresses several key inquiries.

    Notable Features

    While the entire video is worth watching for its demonstration of the new handheld interface, the task switcher and settings menu stood out to us. The task switcher allows users to easily toggle between the immersive gaming view and the classic Windows desktop. Additionally, it lets you designate a home app.

    To access the task switcher, you just need to press and hold the Xbox button located at the upper left. This feature lets you swiftly navigate between various applications and games. More intriguingly, the task switcher includes an option for displaying the traditional Windows desktop.

    Performance Insights

    Typically, when starting up the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X, the system does not load processes like the Windows desktop to save resources. This means that more resources are dedicated to gaming, enhancing performance and efficiency.

    However, once you access the Windows desktop through the task switcher, resources are allocated to that process. While switching back to games can be done smoothly, the desktop doesn’t fully unload. This leads to the system prompting for a complete restart for “optimizations” to achieve peak performance.

    Customization Options

    It’s true that you likely won’t need to access the Windows desktop while gaming on the ROG Xbox Ally/Ally X, but having to restart just to regain maximum performance can be frustrating. This could be particularly puzzling for users who enjoy installing and experimenting with emulators, as it seems that these apps will require entering the Windows desktop mode.

    In terms of home app customization, Windows Central indicates that players can select which home applications the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X will launch into. In theory, you could set Steam, Epic, or other launchers as the default home app, allowing the console to boot directly into that launcher without needing any input from the user.

    All things considered, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are proving to be very intriguing, especially the latter. Admittedly, with price tags of $549.99 and $899.99, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are on the expensive side. Nevertheless, if these handhelds meet expectations, they could become quite appealing, particularly with potential discounts during events like Black Friday sales.

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