Photos of ASUS' Xbox-branded handheld device, codenamed Project Kennan, have surfaced online, sparking excitement among gaming enthusiasts. As first reported by 91mobiles and highlighted by Eurogamer, two images showcasing the ASUS ROG Ally 2 in both white and black variants have been leaked via the Indonesian certification office. These images were linked to a now-deleted listing on the U.S.'s FCC website.
Both versions of the device feature buttons configured in the Xbox layout, with Y, B, A, and X, distinguishing them from PlayStation's triangle, circle, cross, and square, or Nintendo's X, A, B, and Y configurations. The black variant is particularly notable, as it prominently displays an Xbox button next to the thumbstick, albeit without the traditional 'X' emblem. While the tech specs remain somewhat elusive, it's unclear if there are significant differences between the black and white models.
Windows Central's Jez Corden has shared that these devices are currently undergoing open testing at Microsoft's headquarters. Corden suggests that a formal reveal might be imminent, potentially around May 20.
Photos of Xbox's "Project Kennan" seem to have leaked. https://t.co/fQiMISNMJZ
— Jez (@JezCorden) May 7, 2025
Last month, ASUS Republic of Gamers' X/Twitter account teased a glimpse of both a Republic of Gamers (ROG) Xbox controller and a handheld system. The official Xbox account responded with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an upcoming official announcement.
This leak aligns with an earlier report from IGN about Microsoft's ambitions in video game hardware, which includes plans for a next-gen Xbox in 2027 and a potential launch of an Xbox-branded gaming handheld later in 2025.
While the ASUS ROG Ally 2 is not a Microsoft-made console, Microsoft is reportedly planning to launch its own first-party Xbox handheld in the coming years. Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer has indicated that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away.
In related news, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and expected to be released in two years. This timeline aligns with comments from Xbox president Sarah Bond, who stated that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming for the most significant technological leap ever in a generation.
