Gaming hardware giant ASUS has teased what could be the much-discussed Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers X/Twitter account shared a teaser featuring a "little robot friend cooking something up," hinting at the development of a Republic of Gamers (ROG) Xbox controller and a handheld system.
Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft's video game hardware ambitions, which reportedly include a next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld expected to hit the market later in 2025.
The teaser from ASUS offers a glimpse of the handheld, showcasing buttons clearly configured for Xbox (Y, B, A, and X) rather than the typical PlayStation or Nintendo layouts. The device also features a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional smaller buttons, though these are somewhat obscured in the teaser.
Adding to the intrigue, the official Xbox account responded to the teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an impending reveal.
pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka
— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025
While specific details about the launch are still under wraps, the monitor in the ASUS teaser hints at the handheld's potential features: "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and a "fresh look!" These phrases suggest the device may focus on endurance, storage, and performance.
In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft's VP of 'Next Generation,' told The Verge about Microsoft's plans to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds produced by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.
### Xbox Games Series Tier ListXbox Games Series Tier List
Although this Xbox-branded gaming handheld won't be a Microsoft-made console, the company is reportedly gearing up to release its own in 2027, coinciding with the launch of the next-gen Xbox. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming boss, has hinted that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away.
Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly "fully" in production and set to launch in two years. This aligns with Xbox president Sarah Bond's recent statement about Microsoft "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming for a significant technological advancement.
The future of gaming consoles continues to be a hot topic. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, has suggested that future generations might move away from dedicated consoles, despite major companies like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo forging ahead with new hardware. Nintendo's eagerly awaited Switch 2 is set to be showcased in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans hope to learn more about its features, release date, and pre-order details.
