Microsoft has finally revealed its highly-anticipated handheld console, years after it was first rumoured. The ROG Xbox Ally will let gamers access their Game Pass subscription library on-the-go, in effect meaning members will start off with hundreds of games. It is being made in partnership with Asus, which has been making handheld gaming devices since 2023, and will be released at the end of 2025 - though it is unknown what it will cost. Speculation over Microsoft making a handheld Xbox has been widespread for more than a decade, with the company starting and scrapping various efforts over the years. Microsoft's announcement comes justthree days after the launch of the Switch 2. Much like its predecessor, the Switch 2 is a hybrid gaming device - meaning it can be both played on-the-go and connect to a TV. Its success likely led tothe design of Valve's Steam Deck, a handheld PC which gives gamers access to the entire library of titles they've bought through game distribution service Steam - though not all the games work on the device. It means Microsoft may be accused of being slightly late to the game when rivals already exist in the space, but the benefit of native support for Game Pass will likely address a lot of concerns for its 34 million subscribers. Microsoft's new handheld will comes in two flavours, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. "Whether you're at home or on the go, your favorite games should follow you," said Xbox head of gaming devices Roanne Sones. "Both handhelds allow players to play natively, via the cloud, or remotely with their Xbox console in another room." The two versions both share a 7 inch screen with 1080p resolution. The base version comes with 16GB memory and 512GB storage, while the "X" version has 24GB memory and double the storage. The more powerful version of the handheld also has a bigger battery and a more powerful processor. In both cases, Xbox will be hoping to convince players that it offers something out of the box that its rivals don't - Microsoft's operating system. "Because these handhelds run Windows, you have access to games you can't get elsewhere, so you can enjoy the full freedom and versatility of PC gaming," said Ms Sones. In other words, gamers can leave the Xbox app and launch other gaming platforms - such as Steam and EA Play - through the device. But all that capability comes at a cost when it comes to weight. At 670g and 715g respectively, the base and X versions of the Xbox Ally may be heavier than handheld gamers are used to - with Nintendo's new Switch 2 weighing a fair bit less at 534g. And there remains one big unanswered question - the price. Microsoft decided not to reveal how much its new handheld will cost, but it goes without saying the more powerful X version will also be more expensive. The Switch 2, which has a similar screen, retails at £395 in the UK, while the Steam Deck costs between £349 and £569 depending on the specs. Part of the success of Game Pass is many highly-anticipated new releases appear on the service on launch day, meaning gamers can save money by subscribing - though you lose access to a game if you cancel your subscription. At its showcase event where it unveiled the new handheld, Microsoft announced several new games - including a reveal that 17 new titles will come to Game Pass PC & Ultimate on day one. Many of these are highly-anticipated games such as Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4, Ninja Gaiden 4 and Outer Worlds 2. It also includes the new Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 when that releases - likely later this year. The new game will be a sequel to the critically-acclaimed Black Ops 2, which first released in 2012. Interestingly, while the game was confirmed for several consoles, there was no mention of the Switch 2 at the event - despite Nintendo previouslysigning a 10-year deal to bring the series to its consoles in 2022. But there's something else which many gaming fans will have been excited to finally see revealed. The much-anticipated Persona 4 remake, subtitled Revival, is set to be remade 17 years after it was first released on PlayStation 2. The original, which sees a group of friends investigate a series of murders in the Japanese countryside, is considered a gaming classic. But fans of the series will have to wait, as Sega and Atlus did not share a release date for the remake. Sign up for our Tech Decoded newsletterto follow the world's top tech stories and trends.Outside the UK? Sign up here.
Xbox finally reveals handheld console after a decade of speculation
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Microsoft Introduces ROG Xbox Ally Handheld Console Set for 2025 Release"
Bbc News
8.0
TruthLens AI Summary
Microsoft has officially unveiled its long-awaited handheld gaming console, the ROG Xbox Ally, marking a significant moment in the gaming industry after over a decade of speculation. This handheld device, developed in partnership with Asus, is designed to provide gamers with the ability to access their Game Pass subscription library while on the move, effectively granting players hundreds of games at their fingertips. Scheduled for release at the end of 2025, the pricing details remain undisclosed. The announcement arrives shortly after the launch of the Switch 2, a hybrid gaming console that has influenced the design of competitors like Valve's Steam Deck. While Microsoft may face criticism for entering the handheld market later than rivals, the unique integration of Game Pass is expected to resonate well with its 34 million subscribers, enhancing the handheld's appeal in a crowded market.
The ROG Xbox Ally will be available in two versions: the base model and the more advanced ROG Xbox Ally X. Both versions feature a 7-inch display with a 1080p resolution, but they differ in specifications, with the base model offering 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage, while the X version boasts 24GB of memory and double the storage. Notably, both models run on Windows, allowing gamers to access a wider range of titles beyond just Xbox's offerings, including competitors like Steam and EA Play. However, the weight of the handhelds, at 670g and 715g respectively, may pose a concern for portability compared to lighter options like the Nintendo Switch 2. The anticipated price point remains a mystery, especially in light of competitors' pricing, such as the Switch 2 at £395 and the Steam Deck ranging from £349 to £569. At the unveiling event, Microsoft also announced several new titles coming to Game Pass, including highly-anticipated games like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 and the remake of Persona 4, further enhancing the excitement surrounding the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The recent announcement regarding Microsoft's handheld console, the ROG Xbox Ally, marks a significant development in the gaming industry following years of speculation. By partnering with Asus, Microsoft aims to provide a unique gaming experience that directly integrates with its Game Pass service, enabling gamers to access an extensive library of titles while on the move. This development could be seen as a strategic response to the competitive landscape shaped by competitors like Nintendo and Valve.
Market Positioning and Timing
Microsoft's decision to unveil the handheld just days after the launch of the Switch 2 indicates a calculated approach to positioning its new device in the market. The timing suggests that Microsoft is looking to capitalize on the hype surrounding hybrid gaming devices and is keen to offer an alternative that leverages its existing Game Pass user base. This approach could potentially attract gamers who seek versatility in their gaming experience.
Addressing Competition
The article highlights Microsoft's delayed entry into the handheld market, suggesting that the company may be perceived as trailing behind competitors like Nintendo and Valve. Despite this, the integration of Game Pass could serve as a unique selling point that differentiates the ROG Xbox Ally from its rivals. The announcement aims to reassure existing subscribers that they will have access to a vast array of games, which may mitigate concerns about the company's late entry.
Public Perception and Community Impact
The communication from Xbox's head of gaming devices emphasizes a commitment to providing gaming continuity, whether at home or on the go. This messaging seeks to appeal to a broad audience, including those who value flexibility in their gaming habits. The handheld's specifications are likely to resonate with tech-savvy gamers who prioritize performance and storage, potentially galvanizing support from these communities.
Potential Economic Implications
With the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally, Microsoft could see an increase in Game Pass subscriptions, which would positively impact its revenue. The handheld's success could also influence stock prices for both Microsoft and Asus, particularly if the device performs well in a competitive market. Additionally, the announcement may stimulate interest in the gaming sector overall, potentially leading to increased investments and innovations.
Broader Context and Power Dynamics
In the context of global gaming trends, this development could signify a shift in power dynamics among major tech companies. As gaming continues to grow as a cultural and economic force, Microsoft's entry into the handheld market could alter competitive relationships and market share. This product launch aligns with current consumer trends favoring portability and access, making it timely and relevant.
AI Influence in Content
While it is unclear whether artificial intelligence specifically influenced the writing of this article, the structured presentation and focus on key features suggest a formulaic approach that could be enhanced by AI models. The effective communication of product specifications and market positioning reflects a clear narrative strategy, which may benefit from AI tools designed for content generation and optimization.
The overall reliability of this news article appears strong, given its factual basis and the direct quotes from relevant industry figures. However, the potential for promotional bias exists, as the coverage may aim to create excitement and positive sentiment around Microsoft's new product.