Microsoft and Asus have collaborated to develop two new handheld gaming devices under the ROG Xbox Ally line, as part of Project Kennan. These devices introduce a fresh Xbox full-screen experience on Windows, designed for a more user-friendly, handheld gaming interface that minimizes Windows complexity and focuses on gaming. The white Xbox Ally targets 720p gaming, while the black Xbox Ally X supports 900p to 1080p gaming, both equipped with a 7-inch 1080p display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and VRR support. They are powered by AMD Ryzen Z2 A and Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processors respectively, and come with substantial RAM and SSD configurations. The software enhancements include a dedicated Xbox interface accessible via a new Xbox button, bypassing the full Windows desktop to prioritize gaming performance and memory efficiency. The interface consolidates games from multiple platforms including the Microsoft Store, Battle.net, Steam, and more into a single library. Handheld features include Xbox controller-like grips, impulse triggers on the Ally X, and efficient battery performance, with battery capacities of 60Wh and 80Wh respectively, alongside gaming optimizations for cooler, quieter, and longer gameplay. Additional connectivity options like Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C ports are included, supporting peripherals such as external GPUs. The devices are expected to launch during the holiday season, with further details on pricing and preorders forthcoming.
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