Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could be a groundbreaking Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) shared an intriguing teaser on X/Twitter, showcasing their "little robot friend" hard at work, hinting at the development of an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.
This teaser aligns with last month's IGN report on Microsoft's ambitious plans for video game hardware, which included a next-gen Xbox expected in 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld potentially launching later in 2025. The handheld device shown in ASUS's teaser features buttons labeled with Xbox's familiar Y, B, A, and X, distinct from PlayStation's and Nintendo's configurations. It also sports a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional smaller buttons, though these are less clear in the teaser.
Adding to the excitement, the official Xbox account responded to ASUS's tweet with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an upcoming reveal.
pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka
— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025
While details remain sparse, the monitor in the teaser suggests the handheld's key features: "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and a "fresh look!" These hints give us an idea of what to expect from this new device.
In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft's VP of 'Next Generation,' spoke to The Verge about Microsoft's plans to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds produced by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.
### Xbox Games Series Tier ListXbox Games Series Tier List
Although this Xbox-branded handheld is not a Microsoft-made console, the company is reportedly set to launch its own first-party handheld in 2027, alongside its next-gen Xbox. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming chief, has indicated that a Microsoft-made handheld is still years away.
Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X is now reportedly "fully" in production and expected to launch in two years, in line with Xbox president Sarah Bond's statement that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming for the largest technological leap in a generation.
Amidst these developments, there's ongoing speculation about the future of gaming consoles. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested a future where gaming relies less on consoles. However, major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to innovate. Nintendo's eagerly awaited Switch 2 will be unveiled in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, with fans eager to learn about its features, release date, and pre-order details.
