ASUS Teases Xbox-Branded Handheld

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has unveiled a tantalizing glimpse of what appears to be an upcoming Xbox-branded handheld device, sparking widespread excitement across the gaming community. The teaser was shared via the ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account and features their iconic "little robot friend" seemingly developing new tech—offering a brief but telling look at a ROG-branded Xbox controller and a sleek handheld system.

This reveal aligns with earlier reports from IGN, which detailed Microsoft’s expanding hardware roadmap, including a next-generation Xbox console expected in 2027 and a potential Xbox-branded handheld slated for a late 2025 release. The device showcased in the teaser clearly features the signature Xbox button layout—Y, B, A, and X—distinguishing it from PlayStation and Nintendo configurations. Additional controls include a D-pad, dual thumbsticks, and four smaller auxiliary buttons, though their exact function remains unclear due to the limited visibility.

Adding fuel to the fire, the official Xbox account responded to the ROG tweet with a playful wide-eyed GIF, subtly acknowledging the collaboration and hinting at an imminent official announcement.

pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka
— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025

While no official release date or launch window has been confirmed, the teaser does offer some insight into the device’s potential features. The monitor in the background displays phrases like “Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds” and “fresh look!”—suggesting key selling points could include extended battery life, enhanced performance, and a modernized design.

Earlier this year, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of Next Generation, told The Verge that the company is working to unify the Xbox and Windows gaming experiences for PC handhelds developed by OEM partners such as ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer. This collaboration underscores Microsoft’s strategy to expand its gaming ecosystem beyond first-party hardware.

Although this handheld is not a first-party Microsoft console, reports indicate that a true Xbox-branded handheld—developed internally—is still years away. Phil Spencer, Head of Xbox, has previously noted that such a device remains in the long-term pipeline. Meanwhile, the next Xbox console is reportedly already in full production, set for a 2027 launch. This aligns with statements from Xbox president Sarah Bond, who confirmed the company is “moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware,” aiming for “the biggest technological leap ever in a generation.”

As the console landscape evolves, industry perspectives vary. Netflix’s President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested that future gaming generations may rely less on traditional consoles. Yet, major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to invest heavily in new hardware.

Nintendo’s much-anticipated Switch 2 is set to be revealed in an upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans expect details on its new features, official release date, and pre-order availability—further highlighting the ongoing relevance of dedicated gaming devices in a rapidly changing market.