GamingHandhelds

Microsoft and Asus Announce ROG Xbox Ally Handhelds

about 1 year agoUS
Microsoft and Asus Announce ROG Xbox Ally HandheldsSource: theverge.com
Microsoft and Asus have partnered to create the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, bringing a new Xbox full-screen experience to Windows-based handheld gaming. These devices aim to simplify the Windows gaming experience and offer seamless access to games from various platforms.

Key Insights

Two versions: ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X.

Xbox Ally features AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage.

Xbox Ally X upgrades to Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB RAM, and 1TB storage.

New full-screen Xbox experience on Windows, designed for handheld use.

Aggregated gaming library supports Xbox, Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games Store, and other storefronts.

Devices can boot directly into the Xbox interface with a dedicated Xbox button.

Why this matters: These handhelds provide a streamlined, console-like gaming experience on Windows, potentially attracting gamers who found previous Windows handhelds too complex. The unified game library and Xbox integration enhance accessibility and convenience.

In-Depth Analysis

The ROG Xbox Ally handhelds represent a significant step in combining the Xbox and Windows ecosystems for portable gaming. The collaboration between Microsoft and Asus addresses the challenges of navigating Windows with handheld controls, offering a dedicated Xbox interface and unified game library.

The Xbox Ally includes an AMD Ryzen Z2 A chip, 16GB of LPDDR5X-6400 RAM, and 512GB of M.2 2280 SSD storage, while the Xbox Ally X upgrades to an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 memory, and a 1TB M.2 2280 SSD. Both share a 7-inch 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and VRR support.

Microsoft has optimized the Xbox PC app and Game Bar for handheld use, allowing controller login via the Windows lock screen and easy access to apps like Discord. The devices also feature Xbox-like contoured grips and, in the Ally X, impulse triggers for enhanced haptic feedback.

Battery life is a key focus, with the Xbox Ally using a 60Wh battery and the Xbox Ally X an 80Wh battery. Microsoft claims a 1/3rd reduction in power drain in idle and sleep modes. The Xbox Ally X also includes a USB-C 4 connector with Thunderbolt 4 support, offering the option to connect an external GPU.

These handhelds are expected to launch during the holiday season later this year.

FAQs

Q: What are the main differences between the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X?

The Xbox Ally has an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage, while the Xbox Ally X features a Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB RAM, and 1TB storage.

Q: What is the new Xbox full-screen experience on Windows?

It's a handheld-friendly interface that hides the complexity of Windows and focuses on gaming, allowing users to launch games from various platforms in one place.

Q: When will the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds be released?

They are expected to launch during the holiday season later this year.

Key Takeaways

The ROG Xbox Ally handhelds offer a streamlined Windows gaming experience.

Key features include a dedicated Xbox interface, unified game library, and optimized hardware for portable gaming.

The devices provide seamless access to games from Xbox, Game Pass, Steam, and other platforms.

Improved battery life and ergonomic design enhance the handheld gaming experience.

Discussion

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