Microsoft and Asus Unveil New ROG Xbox Ally Portable Consoles for 2023

Microsoft and Asus have teamed up to introduce two new portable gaming consoles as part of Project Kennan: the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. Designed for gaming on the go, these devices feature a custom Windows version optimized for a full-screen Xbox interface, setting them apart in the handheld gaming market.

Performance and Features

The ROG Xbox Ally, available in sleek white, supports games with resolutions up to 720p, while the more powerful black ROG Xbox Ally X handles 900p and 1080p. Both devices boast 7-inch 1080p displays with a 120Hz refresh rate and VRR technology for a smooth gaming experience.

Under the hood, the Xbox Ally utilizes an unreleased AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5x-6400 RAM and a 512GB SSD. The Xbox Ally X features the advanced AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, 24GB of LPDDR5x-8000 RAM, and a 1TB SSD, offering gamers a substantial performance boost.

Design and Connectivity

The consoles are designed with comfort in mind, featuring grips reminiscent of Xbox controllers. The Xbox Ally includes two USB-C 3.2 ports, while the Ally X adds USB Type-C (Thunderbolt 4) support, enabling the use of powerful external accelerators, a USB-C 3.2 port, and a microSD card reader.

Seamless Gaming Interface

With a focus on user experience, the consoles offer a streamlined Xbox interface that allows users to access their game library seamlessly. This initiative merges Xbox, Game Pass, and numerous PC gaming platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store into one integrated interface.

Enhanced Battery Life

Battery efficiency has been prioritized, with the Xbox Ally featuring a 60-watt-hour battery, and the Ally X a 80-watt-hour one, promising extended gaming sessions. Microsoft’s updates to Xbox PC and Game Bar aim to further enhance handheld device usability.

While benchmark data is yet to be released, expectations are high for these devices, set to launch later this year. Pricing details remain undisclosed, but the announcement signifies exciting advancements in portable gaming technology.