ASUS Teases Xbox-Branded Handheld

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could potentially be an Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account shared a teaser featuring its "little robot friend" working on a project, hinting at an upcoming ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.

Last month, IGN reported on Microsoft's ambitious plans for gaming hardware, including a next-generation Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded handheld that might hit the market later in 2025. The teaser from ASUS clearly showcases a handheld with an Xbox-specific button layout (Y, B, A, and X), alongside a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional buttons, though the latter are somewhat obscured.

Adding to the excitement, the official Xbox account responded to the teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an imminent reveal.

pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka

— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025

While specific details on the release date or launch window remain undisclosed, the monitor in the teaser promises "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds," and a "fresh look!" These hints suggest the unique selling points of the upcoming handheld.

In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft's VP of 'Next Generation,' shared with The Verge that the company aims to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds produced by OEMs like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.

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Although this Xbox-branded handheld is not a Microsoft-manufactured console, the company is gearing up to launch its own in 2027, coinciding with the release of the next-generation Xbox. Microsoft gaming chief Phil Spencer has hinted that a first-party Xbox handheld is still several years away.

The successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and expected to launch in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's assertion that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming for a significant technological leap.

Amidst ongoing speculation about the future of gaming consoles, Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, predicts a shift away from traditional consoles. However, major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to innovate with new hardware. Nintendo is set to unveil its highly anticipated Switch 2 during a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans eagerly await details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.