Microsoft unveils ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X handhelds with AMD chips and Asus partnerships

Designed for different user segments, the ROG Xbox Ally targets casual gamers with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, while the Ally X suits power users with 24GB RAM, 1TB storage, and enhanced Game Bar access features

Microsoft has officially entered the handheld gaming arena with the introduction of two new Xbox-branded portable gaming devices — the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. Revealed at the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8, these handheld consoles are developed in collaboration with Asus, signalling a strategic expansion into on-the-go gaming experiences.

The ROG Xbox Ally is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z2 A processor, while the more advanced Ally X model features the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset, targeting gamers with higher performance demands. Both handhelds are built around a 7-inch full HD LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and FreeSync Premium support, aiming to deliver smooth and responsive visuals. The screens are shielded by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus with a DXC anti-reflective coating for enhanced durability and visibility.

Designed with comfort in mind, both devices sport ergonomic grip enhancements inspired by the Xbox Wireless Controller, catering to a wide variety of hand sizes. The Ally X further refines the control experience with upgraded impulse triggers, while the standard model includes hall effect triggers.

Tailored performance and enhanced usability

The ROG Xbox Ally is geared toward casual gamers, offering 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 512GB of SSD storage. In contrast, the Ally X caters to power users with 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. Each device features a new dedicated Xbox button for quick access to the Game Bar, chat, and app functions, streamlining the user interface.

Running a specially optimized version of Windows 11, the handhelds prioritize gaming performance by minimizing background processes and improving resource allocation. Microsoft has integrated Asus’s Armoury Crate into the updated Game Bar, allowing users to adjust performance settings, map inputs, and launch games from multiple platforms including Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and others.

In terms of battery life, the ROG Xbox Ally houses a 60Wh battery, while the Ally X features a larger 80Wh unit. Both models come bundled with a 67W charging stand to support extended play sessions.

Roblox partnership enhances gaming

Microsoft also announced a strategic collaboration with Roblox to ensure native optimization for the new devices, alongside broader efforts to work with developers on games optimized for handheld play. The handhelds will also support Gaming Copilot, an AI-powered assistant to help users improve gameplay, discover new titles, and stay connected with the community.

The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X will launch during the 2025 holiday season in 24 global markets including the U.S., UK, France, Japan, Singapore, and Australia. Rollout plans for other regions like India are expected to follow. Pricing and pre-order information will be announced in the coming months.

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