Microsoft has revealed the release dates for their collaboration with Asus on two gaming handheld devices – ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. Simultaneously, they are also focusing on enhancing the functionality of Windows for portable systems. In a conversation with IGN, the vice president of Xbox gaming devices and ecosystem, Jason Ronald, discussed these upcoming handhelds and Microsoft’s future plans.
Ronald expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership with Asus, stating that they’ve found a perfect collaborator to combine their respective strengths, with a shared goal of expanding the category as a whole. He further revealed that the Handheld Compatibility Program, initially announced at Gamescom, will also be accessible for additional Windows-based handheld gaming systems in the future. Ronald added that the program and the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are scheduled to launch concurrently.
He mentioned that even though the Handheld Compatibility Program will debut simultaneously with Xbox Allies, its benefits extend to all compatible devices within that category. Additionally, he emphasized his excitement about this collaboration, acknowledging that nobody can predict what lies ahead in the future.
On October 16, the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, available globally, will introduce enhancements to the fundamental UI/UX of Windows. These handheld devices are designed to make the operating system more functional without needing a mouse or keyboard. At startup, they offer the Xbox Fullscreen Experience, allowing users to navigate through the interface and access games from diverse launchers like Steam or Battle.net. Additionally, the developers mention that the Xbox Fullscreen Experience only launches necessary gaming processes, freeing up over 2 GB of RAM for gameplay.
The Xbox Game Bar is receiving some updates with the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, particularly since it serves as a hub for the Command Center. This allows users of handheld devices to adjust multiple settings and switch between different performance modes. For instance, they can opt for power-saving mode that minimizes battery usage and fan noise, or choose high-performance mode for running more demanding games with maximum horsepower.
As a gamer, when it comes to Microsoft’s Handheld Compatibility Program, I understand that a game needs to meet specific criteria to be approved. For instance, if a game requires keyboard input, like many RPGs do for character naming, it should automatically bring up an on-screen keyboard. This is essential for seamless gameplay on smaller screens.
Moreover, the Compatibility Program also considers other accessibility features such as adjustable font size and user interface (UX) to make sure that players can easily navigate and enjoy the game even on handheld devices. All these factors are carefully evaluated along with the overall compatibility of the game with the device’s hardware.
Initially presented in June, let’s take a look at the details surrounding the ROG Xbox Allies and ROG Xbox Allies X. More information can be found in our coverage.
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2025-08-20 18:44