Gaming hardware company ASUS has recently teased what could be a new Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers X/Twitter account shared a teaser featuring its "little robot friend cooking something up," which briefly showcased both a Republic of Gamers (ROG) Xbox controller and a handheld system.
Last month, IGN reported on Microsoft's ambitious plans for video game hardware, including a full next-gen Xbox expected in 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld that might launch later in 2025. The handheld in ASUS's teaser clearly displays buttons configured for Xbox (Y, B, A, and X), a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four additional smaller buttons, although these are somewhat difficult to discern.
Adding to the intrigue, the official Xbox account acknowledged the tweet with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an upcoming reveal.
pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka
— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025
While details are sparse, the monitor in the teaser mentions "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds" and "fresh look!" suggesting potential key features of the handheld.
In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft's VP of 'Next Generation,' told The Verge that the company aims to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds manufactured by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), such as ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.
While this Xbox-branded gaming handheld is not a Microsoft-made console, the company is reportedly planning to launch its own in 2027, potentially alongside its next-gen Xbox. Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer recently indicated that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away.
The successor to the Xbox Series X is now allegedly "fully" in production and set to be released in two years, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's recent statement that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," focusing on delivering the most significant technological leap in a generation.
Amid speculation about the future of consoles, Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested a future generation that might rely less on gaming consoles, despite major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo advancing with new hardware. Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 device is set to be showcased in a Nintendo Direct on April 2. Fans are eager to learn about the features of the Switch 2, its release date, and how pre-orders will be managed.
