ASUS Teases Xbox-Branded Handheld

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 shared an intriguing teaser featuring its "little robot friend cooking something up," which provided a tantalizing glimpse of both an ROG Xbox controller and a handheld system.

This follows last month's report from IGN about Microsoft's ambitious plans in the gaming hardware sector. These plans include a next-generation Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld that might hit the market as early as 2025.

The teaser from ASUS offered a clear view of the handheld's buttons, which are arranged in the familiar Xbox configuration of Y, B, A, and X, distinguishing it from the PlayStation's triangle, circle, cross, and square, or Nintendo's X, A, B, and Y setups. The device also features a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional smaller buttons, although these were harder to discern in the teaser.

Adding fuel to the speculation, the official Xbox account responded to ASUS's teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting that a formal reveal may be on the horizon.

pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka

— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025

While details remain sparse, the monitor in the teaser hinted at the handheld's key features: "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and a "fresh look!" These could be the unique selling points for the new device.

In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft's Vice President of 'Next Generation,' shared with The Verge that Microsoft aims to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds developed by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.

Although this Xbox-branded handheld isn't a Microsoft-made console, the company has plans for its own first-party handheld, which Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer has indicated is still years away. Additionally, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and expected to launch in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's assertion that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming for the most significant technological leap in a generation.

The future of gaming consoles continues to be a topic of intense speculation. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, suggested that future gaming generations may rely less on traditional consoles, even as major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo forge ahead with new hardware. Nintendo's much-anticipated Switch 2 is set to be showcased in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans eagerly await details on its features, release date, and pre-order information.