Tag: ROG Xbox Ally

  • Xbox President: Asus Sets ROG Ally Price Amid Handheld Confusion

    Xbox President: Asus Sets ROG Ally Price Amid Handheld Confusion

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft allowed Asus to set the final prices for the ROG Xbox Ally handheld devices.
    2. The ROG Xbox Ally X is priced at $999.99, targeted at performance-focused gamers, while the standard version is $599.99 for casual gamers.
    3. The higher-priced model quickly sold out, but some believe supply may have been intentionally limited.
    4. Concerns about the handhelds’ pricing and compatibility with all Xbox games have been raised by potential buyers.
    5. Microsoft is working on new Xbox consoles, but their design and features remain uncertain.

    Even after the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally, gamers are left with lingering inquiries about the handheld devices. While they do have Xbox branding, it remains uncertain whether Microsoft or Asus had the final say on specifications or pricing. In a recent interview with Variety, Xbox President Sarah Bond provided some clarity regarding the pricing of the ROG Xbox Ally.

    Insight from Xbox’s President

    Bond stated that due to Asus’ background in creating Windows gaming handhelds, Microsoft entrusted the company to “set the final prices of the devices.” She expressed that the $999.99 ROG Xbox Ally X is a good deal for those who really value performance. On the other hand, the ROG Xbox Ally priced at $599.99 caters to more casual gamers who might not need top-tier specs.

    Sales and Supply Concerns

    Despite worries about pricing, Bond highlighted the swift pre-order sales for the devices. The pricier version featuring the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor quickly sold out on the Microsoft Store. However, some gamers think the companies might have purposely limited the supply. Other skeptics argue that even the ROG Xbox Ally may be too costly for what it offers.

    The postponement of announcing the ROG Xbox Ally price at Gamescom raised some eyebrows. Pure Xbox talked about rumors that hinted at the possibility of subsidizing the costs. Manufacturers sometimes accept losses on hardware to gain profits from games and accessories later on. Unfortunately, this strategy didn’t materialize with this launch, resulting in the handhelds being pricier than anticipated.

    Compatibility Issues

    Some potential buyers are not only concerned about the prices of the Windows 11 handhelds but also about their inability to run all Xbox games, making them a questionable investment. Emulation might be a path Microsoft could pursue to address compatibility issues. Bond reassured fans that Microsoft is working on new Xbox consoles internally. However, with AMD seemingly at the forefront, it remains to be seen if these systems will resemble typical consoles.

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  • Microsoft Plans Xbox 360 Emulator for ROG Xbox Ally Users

    Microsoft Plans Xbox 360 Emulator for ROG Xbox Ally Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is working to attract Xbox console users to Windows, with a focus on improving backward compatibility through potential emulation.
    2. The ROG Xbox Ally handheld device can access many PC games, but some titles remain unavailable, leading to mixed reactions from users.
    3. Licensing challenges may hinder the development of an official Xbox 360 emulator, despite interest from gamers for playing older titles.
    4. Critics argue that Microsoft should have included backward compatibility features in the ROG Xbox Ally, as it lacks exclusive games for the device.
    5. Microsoft plans to continue creating its own hardware, but recent price hikes and a move towards cross-platform publishing leave fans uncertain about the future.

    Microsoft is trying to attract Xbox console users to Windows, and this effort is being closely watched. The ROG Xbox Ally handheld can access a large selection of PC games, but some titles are still unavailable. Jez Corden from Windows Central suggests that a proper Xbox 360 emulator for PCs could allow for playing older Xbox games.

    Insights from XboxEra Discord

    In a discussion on the XboxEra Discord, Corden elaborated on comments he made during a recent podcast called Xbox Two. He addressed worries regarding backward compatibility on Xbox consoles, indicating that Microsoft might view emulation as a potential fix. A job listing from May 2025 for a Principal Software Engineer is seen by many gamers as support for these ideas.

    Licensing Challenges Ahead

    Corden, however, urged caution by pointing out the challenges posed by licensing. Although Microsoft bought Activision Blizzard, not every game from these companies is available on Game Pass. An official Xbox 360 emulator might encounter similar hurdles, with complex licensing agreements potentially preventing certain games from being playable. Still, this strategy could benefit many Xbox-only titles and classic retro games.

    Mixed Reactions to ROG Xbox Ally

    Some critics believe Microsoft should not have promoted the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X without backward compatibility features. The full-screen experience tested in Notebookcheck’s review makes game launching resemble the Xbox Series X|S. Yet, like earlier Windows handhelds, there are no games that are exclusive to this device.

    Microsoft is also facing scrutiny over its collaboration with AMD. Some skeptics worry that this partnership will result in PC/console hybrids instead of conventional gaming systems. Nevertheless, Corden refuted claims that all new Xbox consoles will depend solely on Windows. While there hasn’t been any official word from Microsoft, the insider anticipates that future consoles will support all Xbox games.

    Future of Xbox Hardware

    Sarah Bond, the President of Xbox, has assured that Microsoft will persist in creating its own hardware. Nevertheless, with recent price hikes and a shift toward cross-platform publishing, fans are left uncertain about the future.

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    Microsoft Plans Xbox 360 Emulator for ROG Xbox Ally Users

     

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  • Microsoft Cancels Xbox Handheld Due to AMD Sales Demand

    Microsoft Cancels Xbox Handheld Due to AMD Sales Demand

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft initially planned to create its own dedicated Xbox handheld but abandoned the project due to high demands from AMD.
    2. AMD required Microsoft to commit to producing at least 10 million units for a custom system-on-chip (SoC), which Microsoft deemed too risky.
    3. Industry reactions include skepticism, with some experts rejecting the claims about the scrapped handheld project.
    4. Microsoft is now focusing on a collaboration with Asus for the ROG Xbox Ally, launching on October 16, 2025.
    5. The upcoming ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X will feature advanced specifications, raising questions about Microsoft’s long-term strategy in the handheld gaming market.

    Microsoft’s entry into the handheld gaming market might have looked quite different based on some recent rumors. Instead of the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X, insider KeplerL2 has disclosed that Microsoft originally aimed to create its own dedicated Xbox handheld.

    The Scrapped Handheld

    Sadly, this unannounced Xbox handheld was supposedly abandoned during its planning stage because of strict demands from AMD. KeplerL2, known for a strong history in hardware manufacturing discussions, mentioned that Microsoft was in negotiations with AMD to create a custom system-on-chip (SoC) for this device.

    A Risky Commitment

    However, the collaboration fell apart when AMD required Microsoft to commit to producing at least 10 million units to cover the expenses of research and development. This request was deemed too risky by Microsoft, especially considering the moderate sales figures of portable consoles like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch.

    KeplerL2 shared in a comprehensive post on NeoGAF:

    > “From what I understand, the handheld was called off because AMD wanted a promise of 10M+ units to make a dedicated SoC, and seeing how Steam Deck managed to sell 5 million units while ASUS ROG/Lenovo Legion only moved 1–2 million, Microsoft didn’t want to take that chance.”

    Industry Reactions

    This insider information has stirred up some discussion among industry experts, particularly Jez Corden, an editor at Windows Central and Xbox reporter, who rejected this assertion on X in response to KeplerL2’s leak, saying, “this isn’t even slightly true, btw.”

    Nonetheless, this denial seems to match with Microsoft’s recent statement about investing in next-gen hardware, including working with AMD on future consoles. Microsoft has openly reiterated its commitment to first-party Xbox hardware, backed by comments from both President Sarah Bond and AMD CEO Lisa Su.

    Future Collaborations

    As we know, Microsoft has shifted its focus to a collaboration with Asus, leading to the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally, a rebranded version of the ROG Ally X tailored for Xbox Game Pass and Windows gaming. The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are set to launch on October 16, 2025, and they will boast an enhanced AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM, a 7-inch 120Hz 1080p display, and 1TB of SSD storage.

    With the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X on the horizon, and some fortunate users already receiving their pre-orders, experts in the industry are left wondering if this partnership represents a long-term strategy for Microsoft in the handheld gaming space or just a temporary measure in light of changing focuses.

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  • Microsoft Exec Highlights PS5 Games on New Xbox Handheld

    Microsoft Exec Highlights PS5 Games on New Xbox Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Xbox Ally allows users to play games from various platforms, including Steam and adapted PS4/PS5 titles.
    2. Xbox President Sarah Bond discussed the potential for PlayStation Studios games to run on the ROG Xbox Ally during the Tokyo Game Show.
    3. The introduction of the ROG Xbox Ally expands access to previously exclusive games for Xbox Series X and S users.
    4. Some gamers express concerns about the future of Xbox consoles due to price hikes and declining sales, despite Bond’s support for them.
    5. Analysts question Microsoft’s strategy and the classification of the ROG Xbox Ally, noting its limitations compared to current Windows 11 gaming handhelds.

    An advantage of the ROG Xbox Ally is that it can play games from various platforms. This includes access to Steam, allowing users to enjoy PS4 and PS5 titles that have been adapted for Windows. In a recent discussion, Xbox President Sarah Bond highlighted the flexibility of this new gaming handheld.

    Insights from the Tokyo Game Show

    During the Tokyo Game Show 2025, the Japanese outlet Game Watch had a chat with Bond. One of the questions raised was about which Xbox titles might make their way to the PS5. While Bond didn’t drop any hints, she mentioned that the “ROG Xbox Ally is capable of running PlayStation Studios games like Marvel’s Spider-Man.”

    Expanding Gaming Horizons

    Xbox and PlayStation have already collaborated on several previously exclusive games that can be played across platforms. However, the introduction of the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X brings fresh opportunities. Aside from Helldivers 2 and MLB: The Show, owners of Series X and S had previously needed a PC to access a broader range of PS5 titles. Even with Sony sticking to exclusive release periods, popular games such as Death Stranding and Horizon Zero Dawn eventually made their way to Steam.

    Concerns from Fans

    While a segment of gamers is excited about the new handhelds, others are worried about the future of Xbox consoles. The Xbox Series X|S has seen several price hikes, and sales have dropped, leading retailers like Costco to stop carrying the consoles. Nevertheless, Bond is not prepared to give up on these devices. She emphasized that they continue to be “very important hardware” within the Xbox ecosystem.

    Questions Surrounding Microsoft’s Strategy

    Given the recent developments, both analysts and gamers are skeptical about Microsoft’s approach. Some critics are even questioning the classification of the ROG Xbox Ally as a console. Although it features the new Xbox full-screen experience, it lacks many functions that are already available on current Windows 11 gaming handhelds. Playing older Xbox games that are locked to consoles cannot be done without emulation or cloud streaming.

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    Microsoft Exec Highlights PS5 Games on New Xbox Handheld

     

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  • New PS6 Handheld Price Closer to Switch 2 than ROG Xbox Ally

    New PS6 Handheld Price Closer to Switch 2 than ROG Xbox Ally

    Key Takeaways

    1. The rumored price for the PS6 handheld, called Canis, is around $500, making it competitive with Nintendo’s Switch 2 priced at $450.
    2. The ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are significantly more expensive, priced at $599.99 and $999.99, respectively.
    3. Sony may keep costs lower for the Canis due to a more efficient System on Chip (SoC), allowing for cheaper components.
    4. The Canis is expected to run PS4, PS5, and PS6 games in handheld mode after updates, utilizing advanced AMD technology for better performance.
    5. The design and display technology of the PS6 handheld will greatly influence its price, with a non-OLED screen being key to staying close to the $500 mark.

    With console prices going up, many gamers are worried about how expensive the future PS6 handheld might be. The new ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are among the latest systems that are more expensive than many expected. Insider KeplerL2 has indicated that, even with strong performance, Sony’s rumored Canis could be priced at around $500.

    Competitive Pricing

    According to KeplerL2, this price point for the PS6 handheld would make it competitive with the Switch 2. Nintendo’s console is priced at $450 without a game included. Similar to the first Switch, Nintendo might also increase the price of the Switch 2 before the Canis is released. While Windows 11 handhelds target a different crowd, the ROG Xbox Ally comes in at $599.99, and the ROG Xbox Ally X is priced at $999.99.

    Cost Efficiency

    When discussing the new PlayStation handheld, the insider shared insights on why it could be more affordable. On the ResetEra forums, KeplerL2 stated that the ROG Xbox Ally is a “low volume device made and sold by Asus at a profit.” He believes that Sony can manage to keep prices lower due to a more efficient System on Chip (SoC), allowing for cheaper components.

    Even at a price of $500, the Canis is expected to run PS4, PS5, and PS6 games, but only in handheld mode and after receiving updates. Its APU is said to allocate four AMD Zen 6C cores for gaming and two lower-power Zen 6 cores for the operating system. Furthermore, the GPU will utilize RDNA 5 technology, which is still being developed. This means gamers can look forward to better ray-tracing performance and improved frame rates.

    Design and Performance

    If the information from Moore’s Law is Dead holds true, the PlayStation handheld and Switch 2 will likely share a hybrid design. When docked, the GPU could increase its clock speeds from 1.2 GHz to 1.6 GHz.

    As KeplerL2 points out, the kind of display technology chosen will significantly impact the price of the PS6 handheld. Only a non-OLED screen would keep the costs close to $500. Gamers have seen Nintendo with the Switch 2 and Asus with the ROG Xbox Ally make similar compromises in their designs.

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    New PS6 Handheld Price Closer to Switch 2 than ROG Xbox Ally

     

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  • Microsoft Launches Xbox Ally and Ally X: Pre-Orders Now Open

    Microsoft Launches Xbox Ally and Ally X: Pre-Orders Now Open

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus announced prices for the ROG Xbox Ally ($599.99) and ROG Xbox Ally X ($999.99) in the U.S., which are higher than previous leaks suggested.
    2. Pre-orders will start soon, with shipping beginning on October 16th; the ROG Xbox Ally X will be a Best Buy exclusive.
    3. Pricing in other regions includes €599.99/€899.99 in Europe, £499.99/£799.99 in the UK, and $799.99 CAD/$1299.99 CAD in Canada.
    4. Both handhelds feature 7-inch 1080p 120Hz screens, with the ROG Xbox Ally X having a 1TB SSD and 24GB of RAM, powered by the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip.
    5. The ROG Xbox Ally X faces competition from devices like the Lenovo Legion Go 2 and the Steam Deck, which recently saw a price drop to $319.99.

    After a long period of waiting, Asus has officially revealed the prices for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. Sadly, for gamers in the U.S., the MSRP is higher than what recent leaks indicated. The more affordable gaming handheld is priced at $599.99, while the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme model is tagged at $999.99. Pre-orders will start soon at various retailers, and shipping is set to begin on October 16th. It’s worth noting that the ROG Xbox Ally X is a Best Buy exclusive.

    Pricing in Other Markets

    In other regions, the pricing is as follows:

    – Europe: €599.99/€899.99
    – UK: £499.99/£799.99
    – Canada: $799.99 CAD/$1299.99 CAD
    – Australia: 799.99 AUD/1599.99 AUD

    Players had anticipated that Microsoft would reveal the prices for the Windows 11 handhelds at Gamescom 2025. However, the announcement was delayed as the company chose to reassess the challenging economic situation. With the release date for the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X just weeks away, consumers can now decide whether to save up or look for other options.

    Expectations vs. Reality

    For buyers in Europe, the newly revealed pricing aligns with prior leaks. In contrast, on September 13th, YouTuber Destin posted photos of a Best Buy demo display that were confirmed by an employee, showing prices of $549.99/$899.99. It seems that either Microsoft and Asus made a last-minute adjustment, or the earlier information was incorrect.

    Both handhelds sport 7-inch 1080p 120Hz screens and leverage the new Xbox full-screen experience. The ROG Xbox Series X boasts a 1TB SSD, doubling the storage of the cheaper model, and increasing its memory to 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM. A key difference is its Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip, which is expected to enhance its performance.

    Competing Options

    The ROG Xbox Ally X must persuade gamers to choose it over alternatives like the newly released Lenovo Legion Go 2, which features an OLED screen. Meanwhile, the lower-priced Xbox Ally competes against the Steam Deck LCD, which has recently dropped to $319.99. For those looking for more options, the updated UI will be available on additional devices in 2026.

    Xbox X account.

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  • Pre-Orders for ROG Xbox Ally Launch Soon: Asus Update Inside

    Pre-Orders for ROG Xbox Ally Launch Soon: Asus Update Inside

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handhelds will release on October 16.
    2. Pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally are expected to start soon, with a countdown ending on September 25.
    3. Pricing speculations suggest the ROG Xbox Ally may cost between $500 and $600, while the Ally X could be around $900.
    4. A Facebook update about pre-orders was noted, but it was not visible on the US Asus ROG account.
    5. Both devices feature a 7-inch 1080p/120Hz display, with different processors and battery capacities.

    Ever since the unveiling of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handhelds, chatter about their costs and pre-order info has been spreading on the internet. Microsoft and Asus have announced that both devices are set to release on October 16, but up until now, there was no news about when pre-orders would start. It appears that the wait is almost over.

    Pre-Order Tease

    Asus has hinted on Facebook that pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally will be “dropping soon.” A countdown is set to finish at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT today (September 25). So, in just a few hours, fans eager for the new handhelds can secure their units, and the price details will be revealed. The post specifically talks about the white ROG Xbox Ally but doesn’t mention the ROG Xbox Ally X, suggesting that pre-orders for the more advanced model might begin a day or two later.

    Facebook Update

    This Facebook update was noticed by The Verge, but it appears that it’s not shown on Asus ROG’s US account. The Singapore account does feature the post, but only as a story.

    Pricing Speculations

    Speculation and leaks have suggested what the prices for the two handhelds might be. Last month, it was indicated that the ROG Xbox Ally could be priced between $500 and $600. Best Buy, at one point, mistakenly listed a price of $550 for the standard model and $900 for the Xbox ROG Ally X. Recently, a UK retailer’s leaked ad showed the non-X model priced at £500 (about $667 USD).

    Awaiting Official Confirmation

    In any case, we should receive official details soon. The ROG Xbox Ally is equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2A processor and a 60Wh battery, while the ROG Xbox Ally X has the Ryzen Z2 Extreme with an 80Wh battery. Both devices feature a 7-inch 1080p/120Hz 500-nit display and come with dual USB Type-C ports.

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  • Asus ROG Xbox Ally Price Leaked by UK Retailer – Cheaper Than Expected

    Asus ROG Xbox Ally Price Leaked by UK Retailer – Cheaper Than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ROG Xbox Ally is expected to retail for £499.99, according to a leak from UK retailer Argos.
    2. Pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally may begin soon, although details about the ROG Xbox Ally X’s pricing remain unclear.
    3. In Europe, the ROG Xbox Ally was previously listed at €599, while speculation places the ROG Xbox Ally X at around £799.
    4. In the U.S., potential prices are $549.99 for the Ryzen Z2 and $899.99 for the Ryzen Z2 Extreme models, but tariffs complicate direct comparisons.
    5. Microsoft is likely to reveal confirmed prices for both devices soon, with a release date set for October 16th and possible announcements at the Tokyo Game Show.

    Microsoft’s delay in revealing the price for the Asus ROG Xbox Ally hasn’t stopped retailers like Best Buy from dropping hints. The newest leak from UK retailer Argos suggests that the gaming handheld will retail for £499.99. An employee who shared the promotional documents thinks that pre-orders could start very soon. While this isn’t surprising, the ROG Xbox Ally might actually be a bit cheaper than what was previously thought.

    Missing Information

    Sadly, the advertisement doesn’t mention the more robust ROG Xbox Ally X. However, a Reddit user speculated that it might retail for £799. Back in July, gaming magazine 3DJuegos got some pricing details from an Asus partner store in Spain, where the ROG Xbox Ally was listed at €599, and the ROG Xbox Ally X at €899. While direct currency conversions can be tricky, these prices would roughly translate to about £523 and £785 for customers in the UK.

    Pricing Uncertainty

    For those in the United States, YouTuber Destin Legarie revealed some images from Best Buy, showing price tags of $549.99 for the Ryzen Z2 and $899.99 for the Ryzen Z2 Extreme handhelds. Due to tariffs, figuring out the MSRPs in USD is complex. In Europe, prices usually include VAT, while U.S. sales tax is an extra cost. Still, if the leaks turn out to be accurate, the prices for these gaming devices are on the lower end of what was expected.

    Skepticism About Leaks

    There are reasons to be cautious about the Argos promotional materials. In one image, there’s a picture of the ROG Xbox Ally X with the £499.99 price listed below it. The source of these images acknowledges that the retailer has made mistakes in the past.

    Even with these uncertainties, it seems unlikely that Microsoft can keep delaying the MSRP for Windows 11 devices for much longer. The release date for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X is scheduled for October 16th. There’s a chance that consumers will finally get confirmed prices at the Tokyo Game Show. The company plans to showcase demos of the handhelds at the event and might drop an announcement during a press event on September 25th.

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  • MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Top Handhelds Get Windows 11 Gaming Boost

    MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Top Handhelds Get Windows 11 Gaming Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus and Microsoft’s partnership launched the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X during Gamescom 2025, showcasing Handheld Gaming Mode for Windows 11.
    2. Microsoft plans to extend the new handheld mode to three additional gaming handhelds currently available on the market.
    3. The Xbox full-screen experience will first be available for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, with updates for existing models to follow.
    4. The Xbox on Handhelds website has been updated but does not include the ROG Ally, focusing instead on the Legion Go S and MSI Claw 8 AI+.
    5. A clear timeline for when the Handheld Gaming Mode will be available for existing devices has not yet been provided.

    The recent launches of the ROG Xbox Ally and the more powerful ROG Xbox Ally X during Gamescom 2025 have finally wrapped up. Asus and Microsoft’s partnership is set to be the first to demonstrate the Handheld Gaming Mode of Windows 11, but they won’t be the only ones.

    Upcoming Updates for Existing Devices

    Microsoft has now subtly let it be known that three other gaming handhelds currently on the market will also get the new handheld mode for Windows 11. In June, the company shared some details, mentioning:

    The Xbox full-screen experience will debut with the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X, and our next priority will be to update the available ROG Ally and ROG Ally X… Similar full-screen Xbox experiences are planned for other Windows handhelds, beginning next year.

    Details from the Xbox on Handhelds Website

    Interestingly, the Xbox on Handhelds website has updated to match Microsoft’s previous announcement about the ROG Ally X. However, the ROG Ally is oddly missing from the site. Instead, it features the Legion Go S and MSI Claw 8 AI+ (currently priced at $999 on Amazon) alongside the ROG Ally X. Sadly, we still don’t have a clear timeline for when Windows 11’s new Handheld Gaming Mode will reach existing devices. For further information, you can check the Xbox website and watch the hands-on videos linked below.

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    MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Top Handhelds Get Windows 11 Gaming Boost

     

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  • Asus ROG Xbox Ally Handhelds Earn Steam Deck Game Certification

    Asus ROG Xbox Ally Handhelds Earn Steam Deck Game Certification

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Xbox Ally series will launch on October 16, 2025, featuring Ryzen Z2 Extreme and Z2 A gaming handhelds.
    2. The Xbox Ally with Ryzen Z2 A is designed for 720p gaming, while the Xbox Ally X with Z2 Extreme targets 1080p gaming.
    3. The handhelds are expected to run most games at frame rates between 30 FPS and 60 FPS.
    4. Microsoft introduced a game certification program similar to the Steam Deck, with various performance tiers.
    5. A new “handheld optimized” section will be added to the Xbox home screen to showcase games that meet specific performance criteria.

    The ROG Xbox Ally series has finally announced its release date. As we reported earlier, the new Ryzen Z2 Extreme and Z2 A gaming handhelds are set to launch on October 16, 2025. Microsoft has not only showcased the devices again but also provided an in-depth look at them. In their latest video, the company introduced a game certification program that is quite similar to the one used by the Steam Deck.

    Gaming Capabilities

    In the video, the team explains that the Xbox Ally with the Ryzen Z2 A is designed for 720p gaming, whereas the Xbox Ally X with the Z2 Extreme is aimed at 1080p gaming. Thanks to the powerful iGPUs of these APUs, the gaming handhelds are expected to run most titles at frame rates between 30 FPS and 60 FPS.

    Game Certification Program

    To help users understand how well games will perform on these handhelds, the ROG Ally X series will feature a game certification program akin to that of the Steam Deck. Microsoft has outlined the various tiers for this certification.

    In addition to the game performance certification, Microsoft has also introduced another label: “Handheld optimized.” This label is designated for games that meet specific criteria, such as:

    New Features on Xbox Home Screen

    Microsoft also notes that there will be a new “handheld optimized” section on the Xbox home screen. This section will display all games that satisfy the specified criteria. For more information about the new tags that will be introduced for the Asus ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, be sure to check out the video linked below.

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