A groundbreaking Federal Communications Commission (FCC) leak has revealed Microsoft’s venture into handheld gaming through a collaboration with ASUS. The leaked documents showcase an Xbox-branded version of the ROG Ally 2, marking Microsoft’s first significant step into the portable gaming market.
The leaked specifications detail two distinct variants of the ROG Ally 2. The Xbox-branded model, finished in black with a distinctive Xbox button, boasts impressive hardware specifications, including an AMD 8-Core 36W Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor and between 32GB and 16GB of LPDDR5X memory. In contrast, the standard white model features a more modest 4-core 20W AMD Aeirth Plus chip.
Both versions of the device share a 7-inch 120Hz LCD display, optimised for smooth gaming performance. The new design incorporates thicker grips reminiscent of traditional controller handles, suggesting a focus on ergonomic comfort during extended gaming sessions.
The integration of Xbox services sets this device apart from typical handheld gaming systems. The Xbox-branded model is expected to feature seamless integration with Xbox Game Bar and Game Pass, potentially offering players access to an extensive library of Xbox titles in a portable format.
This development arrives at a crucial moment in the gaming industry, where portable gaming has seen unprecedented growth. The success of devices like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch has demonstrated substantial market demand for high-quality portable gaming experiences, a trend Microsoft appears keen to capitalise upon.
The ROG Ally series, already established in the Windows-based portable gaming market, presents a strategic platform for Microsoft’s expansion. This collaboration leverages ASUS’s expertise in hardware manufacturing whilst incorporating Microsoft’s gaming ecosystem, potentially creating a powerful alternative in the handheld gaming sector.
Industry analysts suggest this partnership could reshape the gaming landscape by bridging the traditional divide between console and PC gaming. The device’s ability to run Windows whilst offering Xbox services could appeal to both casual and dedicated gamers seeking versatility in their gaming experience.
Whilst the leak provides substantial technical details, both Microsoft and ASUS have maintained silence regarding the device’s official launch date and pricing structure. The gaming community eagerly awaits further information about this potentially transformative addition to the portable gaming market.
News Source: Vice
