ASUS Teases Xbox-Branded Handheld

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has given fans a tantalizing glimpse into what could be the much-talked-about Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account teased its "little robot friend cooking something up," showcasing both an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.

Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft's ambitious plans for video game hardware, hinting at a full next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld potentially launching later in 2025. The handheld device featured in ASUS's teaser prominently displays Xbox-specific buttons (Y, B, A, and X) alongside a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional buttons, though these are less discernible.

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

pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka

— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025

While details remain scarce, the teaser suggests that the handheld will boast "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds," and a "fresh look!" as its key features.

In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of 'Next Generation,' shared with The Verge that the company aims to merge Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds crafted by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.

While this Xbox-branded gaming handheld isn't a Microsoft-made console, the company is reportedly gearing up to launch its own in 2027, coinciding with the release of the next-gen Xbox. Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer has hinted that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away.

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

Amidst the buzz around future consoles, Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, predicted a shift away from traditional gaming consoles. However, major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo are forging ahead with new hardware. Nintendo's eagerly awaited Switch 2 is set to be unveiled in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, with fans eagerly anticipating details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.