ASUS Teases Xbox-Handheld Device

Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently teased what could be a highly anticipated Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) X/Twitter account posted a tantalizing glimpse of its "little robot friend" in action, showcasing both an ROG Xbox controller and what appears to be a new handheld system.

This tease aligns with last month's IGN report on Microsoft’s gaming hardware roadmap, which mentioned a full next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded handheld possibly launching in late 2025. The device shown in ASUS's teaser features buttons configured in the Xbox style (Y, B, A, X), along with a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional buttons that are less discernible in the brief clip.

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

pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka

— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025

While details are scarce, the monitor in the teaser hints at the handheld's key features: "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds," and a "fresh look!"

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

While the teased Xbox-branded handheld isn't a Microsoft-made console, Microsoft is reportedly working on its own console for a 2027 release, alongside the next-gen Xbox. Xbox gaming boss Phil Spencer has indicated that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away. The successor to the Xbox Series X is now reportedly in full production and set to launch in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's statement that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," with a focus on delivering the most significant technological leap in a generation.

Amidst these developments, there's ongoing debate about the future of gaming consoles. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested a future generation that might rely less on gaming consoles, despite major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo advancing their hardware. Nintendo's much-anticipated Switch 2 will be showcased in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans can expect more details on its features, release date, and pre-order management.