Latest news with #ROGXboxAllyX
Tom's Guide
5 hours ago
- Tom's Guide
ROG Xbox Ally is coming for Steam Deck, not Nintendo Switch 2 — here's why
Xbox is getting serious about its "Play Anywhere" promise, with the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X finally being revealed. And now, Microsoft has its very own gaming handheld — right off the bat of the Nintendo Switch 2. Being from one of the Big 3 in gaming (Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo), I'd be forgiven for thinking that the Xbox Ally X would be rivaling the Switch 2. I mean, they're both handhelds, after all. But this is a different beast, one that aims to take on the best PC gaming handhelds. But not just in hardware; the software behind Asus and Microsoft's joint venture is arguably the most important feature to come out of the ROG Xbox Ally. No more Windows 11 holding PC-based handhelds back, like the Lenovo Legion Go S or the Asus ROG Ally X. Now, the new Xbox Experience for Handheld feature brings gameplay to the forefront. If that sounds familiar, it should. Valve's SteamOS, made popular thanks to the Steam Deck, has been doing this for a while, and it's what made Steam's portable console a win over other handhelds. With the upcoming Xbox overlay set to arrive in the ROG Xbox Ally consoles, though, it's clear Microsoft has Steam in its sights. How so? Well, the Xbox "full screen experience" won't just be exclusive to the ROG Xbox Ally systems — more handhelds are getting it down the line. Valve's OS is coming to handhelds outside the Steam Deck, including the Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS, but so is the Xbox app — eventually. As Xbox confirmed to Windows Central and The Verge, the Xbox Experience app will be coming to more PC handhelds and that's a big deal. In fact, it's only exclusive to the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X until 'early 2026," as it will then be coming to more portable consoles, like the Lenovo Legion Go, MSI Claw and more. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. 'The Xbox full-screen experience will first come to the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X, and our next focus will be updating the in-market ROG Ally and the ROG Ally X,' states Roanne Sones, VP of gaming devices and ecosystem at Xbox. 'Similar full-screen Xbox experiences will be rolling out to other Windows handhelds, starting next year.' Rather than the hardware itself, it's the Xbox UI overlay that will change the scope of Windows handhelds on the market. We've seen how putting SteamOS on a ROG Ally X can not only boost performance, but battery life, too. And for a portable gaming console, those are the two most important factors that can make or break a handheld device. That's exactly what the Xbox Experience app aims to achieve: "With new modifications that minimize background activity and defer non-essential tasks, more system resources are dedicated specifically to gameplay," Xbox confirms. "That means more memory, higher framerates, and a fully immersive experience for players." Other perks like getting quick access to all your PC games through the overlay, such as Xbox, Game Pass, and, of course, Steam, is hugely welcome. Better yet, just as Steam does, Microsoft is working on a program that can show which games have been optimized for handhelds. So, it won't just be "Steam Deck verified" games anymore, you'll see ROG Xbox Ally, Legion Go S, MSI Claw optimized titles, too. Just as Steam does, Microsoft is working on a program that can show which games have been optimized for handhelds. Moreover, you can expect quick access to settings and customisable widgets via Game Bar with a single press of the Xbox button, and since it's still powered by Windows 11, games and mods from other sources are still easily accessible and customizable. Of course, we'll have to get hands-on time with the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X to see how Microsoft's new gaming handheld-focused overlay benefits portable systems. But one thing's clear, Xbox finally has a way to compete with SteamOS, and handheld gaming for all is about to get that much sweeter. The Nintendo Switch 2 may impress with its upgraded internals, including its custom processor from Nvidia, allowing it to play versions of AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 made for the system, but the ROG Xbox Ally can play the same PC titles outright — no special versions needed. PC gaming handhelds have been able to do this for a while, but help from the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor for the Xbox Ally X looks to make it all the more impressive. With Zen 5 architecture, 8 CPU cores, 16 GPU cores, 16 threads, up to 5GHz max boost clock, up to 35 watts for power and RDNA 3.5, this handheld is expected to sing. The Xbox Games Showcase showed off all the games that will run on ROG Xbox Ally devices, including a claimed 60 FPS at 1080p for Gears of War: Reloaded. But we've also seen how the MSI Claw A8 with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip deliver 100 FPS in Lies of P. Seeing how new titles like Ninja Gaiden 4, Clockwork Revolution and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 perform will be interesting to see, and I can imagine the base ROG Xbox Ally with its AMD Ryzen Z2 A (Zen 2 architecture, 4 CPU cores/8 threads, 20 watts) will better handle less demanding titles like, say, Hollow Knight: Silksong. Will the Steam Deck be able to handle these games? Sure, but probably not with comparably higher settings with its custom AMD Zen 2 "Van Gogh" APU. And while the Switch 2 will get a few of what Xbox showed off, like Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade and more (along with its own exclusive titles), the ROG Xbox Ally is set to be a different beast. A huge outlier is the price of Xbox's upcoming handhelds. We know both the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X will launch this fall, but we haven't heard a peep out of Microsoft or Asus on how much these will cost. If I had to venture a guess, considering the prices of other recent handhelds, the ROG Xbox Ally will be around $599 or less (similar to the Legion Go S with AMD Ryzen Z2 Go), while the ROG Xbox Ally X could drop somewhere between $799 to $999 (like the MSI Claw 8 AI+ or ROG Ally X). If I had to venture a guess, considering the prices of other recent handhelds, the ROG Xbox Ally will be around $599 or less, while the ROG Xbox Ally X could drop somewhere between $799 to $999. That alone sets the handhelds leagues apart from the $449 Switch 2, falling more in line with the pricier $649 Steam Deck OLED. That's all if these predictions are accurate, though, as tariffs are sure to drive up costs more than we'd like to see. Regardless, while Xbox has finally journeyed into the realm of handheld gaming with its own device, thanks to its partnership with Asus, it's the software behind the ROG Xbox Ally that will finally give Valve's dominance on handhelds a run for its money. Nintendo may not have to worry about Xbox when it comes to handhelds with its Switch 2, but Microsoft is looking to shake up handheld gaming PCs — all the more reason for a Steam Deck 2 to enter the ring.
Yahoo
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Microsoft Xbox handheld Ally console release date and details confirmed
Microsoft has revealed its answer to Nintendo's Switch 2, with the handheld Xbox console, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, long after teasing its arrival. Partnering with Asus, the two consoles are designed to be used in-hand, in the same way that the Switch appeals to gamers on the go. The ROG Xbox Ally is the base console, while the ROG Xbox Ally X is a more premium gadget. Here's everything we know about the ROG Xbox Ally consoles. A handheld console does what it says on the tin, allowing players to play wherever they are, via the cloud, or remotely with their Xbox console. Both consoles will use Windows 11, with the Game Bar allowing you to access your library of games as well as console controls. Microsoft has already confirmed that it will offer games that you can't play elsewhere, which might be enough to entice even long-term Xbox and PC gamers. Indeed, there's a clear focus on trying to attract PC users, with apps like Discord and Twitch also compatible with the handheld. However, there's still a definite Xbox feel to the design of the console, with the typical Xbox button giving players access to chat, apps, and settings, much like on a typical controller. In terms of game access, the handhelds will be compatible with Xbox, Game Pass, and other leading PC storefronts, as well as the promise of exclusive games. Buying the Xbox Ally also gives you instant access to Game Pass, so you can access the hundreds of games in the subscription library to get yourself started. The launch of Xbox Ally will be made in partnership with Roblox, bringing the game – boasting 85 million daily active users – to a handheld console for the first time. Microsoft also suggests in its press release that it intends to bring out games optimised for handheld gaming, saying it is 'working closely with our game developer partners'. The Ally and Ally X both run on AMD processors, similar to the most recent generation of larger major consoles, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and Series S. However, it's worth noting that the X model runs on a more advanced version of the Rysen processor, the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme. The base model uses the AMD Ryzen Z2 A. That boosts the RAM from 16GB to 24 and doubles SSD storage from 512GB to 1,024GB. The premium console will also include AI features 'as they come', which suggests that they won't be available at launch. Physically, it also includes impulse triggers for more immersive play. With a holiday launch planned for the end of 2025, the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X will initially be available in the following countries: Australia Belgium Canada Denmark Finland France Germany Ireland Italy Japan Korea Mexico The Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland Portugal Saudi Arabia Singapore Spain Sweden Switzerland Thailand Turkey The United Arab Emirates The United Kingdom The United States Availability will soon after follow for other markets. Pricing, compatible accessories, and pre-order details are 'coming soon' according to Microsoft, but you can sign up for email notifications here to be notified first.
Metro
2 days ago
- Metro
Xbox ROG Ally vs. Legion Go and Steam Deck: how do they compare?
If you've yet to invest in a handheld PC, GameCentral takes a look at the new Xbox portable and what advantages it has over its rivals. After months of teasing, and rumblings of a dedicated Xbox handheld device, Microsoft finally unveiled two new devices during the Xbox Games Showcase this weekend. As was rumoured, these devices come not from Microsoft itself but Asus which is already responsible for its own Asus ROG Ally handheld PC. Which is why these devices are dubbed the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. With Microsoft still working on a separate portable device (which rumours say has been delayed internally), these Asus products will be the next best thing for those who want to enjoy Xbox games on the go. Despite what you might imagine, the portable PC market is incredibly niche in the grand scheme of things, with sales that pale compared to eventhe Xbox Series X/S. That's primarily because of the price but also the complexity involved in getting PC games to work on a portable. While it'll be a while before anyone can go hands on with the new devices (they're slated to launch sometime this Christmas), Microsoft has already shared details on the ROG Xbox Ally – including technical specs – meaning we can compare and contrast with the most popular PC handhelds already on the market. Sign up to the GameCentral newsletter for a unique take on the week in gaming, alongside the latest reviews and more. Delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning. First things first, is the ROG Xbox Ally any better than the Asus ROG Ally that you can already buy? Not particularly, no, but that's unsurprising when it's essentially the same device but with Xbox branding. It technically has a different processor – the AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor – but from what we can tell, it doesn't sound that much more powerful than the Asus ROG Ally's AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor. Both devices also have the same 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage space for games. That said, the Xbox handheld does sport better battery capacity, since it comes with a 60Wh (watt hours) battery compared to the Asus ROG Ally's 40Wh battery. It's also notably bigger and heavier (670g compared to 608g), which might be due to it sporting contoured grips akin to the Xbox controller. We'd need to hold it ourselves to tell but, theoretically, this should make it more comfortable to use than the blockier looking Asus ROG Ally. So far, it seems the only reason to pick a ROG Xbox Ally over the current one is to more easily access your library of Xbox games, with the new device featuring a lot more setting and features to facilitate that. Xbox is promising first-of-their-kind features for the handheld, including 'an immersive Xbox full screen experience [and] an aggregated gaming library with access to installed games from leading PC storefronts.' As for the ROG Xbox Ally X, it's also similarbut a more powerful iteration that uses an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor. This comes along with more storage space (1TB) and a stronger battery (80Wh), though it's also larger and heavier at 715g. This makes it almost identical to the existing Asus ROG Ally X, which boasts the same storage space and battery and is itself just a stronger version of the Asus ROG Ally. While Microsoft hasn't shared official prices, its two Xbox devices will cost more or less the same as the currently available Asus ones. The Asus ROG Ally costs £599, in the UK, while the Asus ROG Ally X costs £799, although both have options for bigger and more expensive storage. Moving onto the first non-Asus competitor, the differences between the Lenovo Legion Go and the Xbox handheld appear small as well. The Lenovo Legion Go also uses the AMD Ryzen Z1 for its processor, both devices run on Windows 11, and they both have 512GB of storage that can be upgraded. The Lenovo Legion Go does have less battery capacity at 49.2Wh, but it's lighter at 640g and while it lacks the contoured grips of the ROG Xbox Ally, its controllers can detach like the Nintendo Switch's Joy-Cons. In fact, one advantage the Lenovo Legion Go has is its variety of play options. It has a dedicated mode for first person shooter games (albeit one that requires a controller base that's sold separately) and can be docked so you can play it through a PC monitor or TV. Although considering existing Asus handhelds can be connected to the TV, we have to assume the Xbox ones will too. There is AR functionality on the Legion Go through the Legion Glasses device but that's too niche to be considered a drastic advantage over Xbox. It's also very easy to get Xbox Game Pass set up on the Legion Go – in fact, the app comes pre-installed – so it's not like the Xbox handheld is the only way of accessing Game Pass titles on a portable. However, the Legion Go is the more expensive of the two options, and goes for £699. There is a cheaper version called the Legion Go S, that's sold at £600 though, which honestly looks more comfortable to use thanks to its curved design, but it is less powerful and has less storage space. The Steam Deck is undoubtedly the most popular portable PC on the market (although it's still only sold around 4 million units worldwide), so will the ROG Xbox Ally offer any significant competition? Upon comparing the two, probably not. Not only is neither device more powerful than the other, since they use very similar processors, but they're roughly the same size and weight as well. The most noteworthy differences we can spot is that the Steam Deck has a weaker battery (40Wh) and less storage space (256GB). However, this makes the Steam Deck cheaper, at £349, and while there is an iteration of the Steam Deck with a better battery, that matches the ROG Xbox Ally's 512GB of storage, it's still significantly cheaper at £479. Even the Steam Deck with 1TB of storage space costs less at £569. One downside is that Xbox Game Pass is fiddly to set up on Steam Deck and with Microsoft promising that its handheld will allow for 'quick access to games from Xbox, Game Pass, and other leading PC storefronts,' it sounds like you'll be able to easily access the Steam storefront and purchase and play games through Valve's launcher. All in all, it seems the only real advantage for owning the ROG Xbox Ally is convenience. There's a chance it will be more comfortable to hold during play sessions than its competitors, but it appears no more powerful than other portable PCs. More Trending The aggregated Xbox library feature should be useful but the Xbox Play Anywhere system is, by its nature, available on many other devices. The real deciding factor will be whatever price Microsoft settles on. Like we said, the Asus ROG Ally and Asus ROG Ally X are £599 and £799 respectively, making the Steam Deck a far more enticing option for anyone still on the fence about joining the portable PC community. It's not impossible that Microsoft will aim for a slightly lower price point and absorb some of the cost, but we doubt it since the ROG Xbox Ally isn't technically Microsoft's own hardware and that may undermine the other Asus handhelds being sold. Email gamecentral@ leave a comment below, follow us on Twitter. To submit Inbox letters and Reader's Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use our Submit Stuff page here. For more stories like this, check our Gaming page. MORE: Persona 4 remake, Keeper, High On Life 2 and the best of Xbox Games Showcase MORE: Silksong release date teased for Christmas by Xbox but it could be sooner MORE: Nintendo Switch 2 sales: an overnight success as UK stock shortages loom
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Indian Express
Microsoft unveils Windows powered ROG Xbox Ally gaming handhelds: Here's everything you need to know
Microsoft, in collaboration with ASUS has unveiled two new Windows powered ROG Xbox Ally gaming handhelds. Named ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, the two new gaming handhelds offer an 'immersive Xbox full screen experience', a new feature that is optimised specially for handheld gaming. The ROG Xbox Ally is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor whereas the performance oriented ROG Xbox Ally X packs the new AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor. Both gaming handhelds sport a 7-inch 120Hz FullHD LCD screen that offers 500 nits of brightness. As it turns out, the handhelds are protected by Corning's Gorilla Glass Victus, have an anti-reflection coating and also support AMD's Freesync Premium technology, which helps reduce screen tearing. The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X have the same button layout as previous generation handhelds from Asus. Featuring a completely redesigned chassis, Asus says its new handhelds offer a more comfortable grip, redesigned palm rest and texturing patterns, which makes it easy for gamers to play all day long. While the ROG Xbox Ally X has hall effect triggers, the ROG Xbox Ally X, Asus seems to have included 'impulse triggers'. which it says improves 'the haptics in supported games.' The ROG Ally comes with 16GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage, whereas the ROG Ally X has up to 25GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. Another difference between the two is that the former is backed by a 60Wh battery while the latter has 80Wh battery. Instead of the familiar Windows desktop and taskbar, users will be greeted with the Xbox full-screen experience on the new Asus Xbox Ally handhelds. Microsoft says this reduces the performance overhead on these handhelds and makes them faster, but you can exit the full-screen mode anytime to go back to the familiar Windows desktop and taskbar interface. Also, Microsoft is bringing the AI powered Gaming Copilot to the Game Bar, making it easy for gamers to do things like learn new skills, talk to others and more. As for availability, the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X will be coming this 'holiday season' in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States. And while Asus and Microsoft have clarified that the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will be available in other countries as well where the company sells gaming handhelds, there is no word on how much it will cost.
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
ROG Xbox Ally X Hands On Review : The Future of Portable Gaming?
What if your console gaming experience could fit in your hands without sacrificing power, performance, or the immersive visuals you've come to expect? The ROG Xbox Ally X boldly steps into the portable gaming arena, promising to deliver just that. With its sleek design, robust hardware, and seamless integration into the Xbox ecosystem, this device aims to bridge the gap between console-quality gaming and on-the-go convenience. But does it truly live up to the hype, or is it another ambitious attempt that falls short of its lofty promises? In this hands-on insight, we'll explore whether the Ally X is a fantastic option or just another contender in an increasingly crowded market. ETA PRIME takes a deep dive into the Ally X, unpacking its innovative hardware, graphics capabilities, and user-centric features to see how it stacks up against its competitors. From its ergonomic design and intuitive controls to its Xbox Game Pass compatibility and cloud gaming potential, this review covers everything you need to know to decide if the Ally X deserves a spot in your gaming arsenal. Whether you're a hardcore gamer chasing peak performance or a casual player seeking flexibility, this exploration will reveal the strengths, quirks, and surprises of this ambitious device. So, how does the Ally X redefine portable gaming? Let's find out. ROG Xbox Ally X Overview Design and Build Quality The ROG Xbox Ally X stands out with its sleek and modern design, crafted to balance aesthetics and functionality. Its ergonomic structure ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions, with contoured edges and a lightweight build that minimizes hand fatigue. The use of durable materials enhances its longevity, making it a reliable choice for gamers who prioritize portability. Key design highlights: An intuitive button layout that allows quick and easy access to controls. A compact yet sturdy build, ideal for gaming on the go. A thoughtful balance between form and function, making sure both style and practicality. The design of the Ally X reflects a commitment to user comfort and durability, making it a standout option for portable gaming enthusiasts. Hardware Performance Equipped with a high-performance processor, the ROG Xbox Ally X is designed to handle demanding games effortlessly. Its advanced cooling system ensures the device remains cool even during intensive gaming sessions, maintaining consistent performance. With ample RAM and storage, the device supports smooth multitasking and fast load times, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Performance highlights: Powerful processing capabilities to handle modern, resource-intensive games. An efficient cooling system that prevents overheating and ensures sustained performance. Generous storage capacity for extensive game libraries and quick access. This robust hardware configuration positions the Ally X as a competitive option in the portable gaming market, catering to both casual and hardcore gamers. ROG Xbox Ally X Hands On Review Watch this video on YouTube. Uncover more insights about ROG Ally X in previous articles we have written. Graphics Capabilities The ROG Xbox Ally X excels in delivering exceptional graphics performance. Its innovative GPU ensures high frame rates and stunning visuals, while the display offers vibrant colors and sharp details. This makes the device suitable for a wide range of gaming genres, from fast-paced shooters to visually immersive RPGs. Notable graphics features: Immersive visuals with precise rendering and attention to detail. High frame rates that ensure smooth and responsive gameplay. A display optimized for both action-packed and cinematic gaming experiences. The Ally X provides a visually engaging experience, whether you're exploring expansive open worlds or competing in high-stakes multiplayer matches. Xbox System Compatibility Seamless integration with the Xbox ecosystem is one of the ROG Xbox Ally X's standout features. The device supports Xbox Game Pass, granting access to a vast library of games. Its wireless connectivity ensures smooth pairing with Xbox consoles and controllers, while cloud gaming compatibility allows users to enjoy their favorite titles on the go without compromising quality. Compatibility features: Full support for Xbox Game Pass, offering a wide selection of games. Lag-free wireless connectivity with Xbox systems and accessories. Cloud gaming capabilities for portable and flexible play. For Xbox enthusiasts, the Ally X bridges the gap between console and portable gaming, offering a seamless and versatile experience. User Interface and Accessibility The user interface of the ROG Xbox Ally X is designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind. Its clean layout prioritizes functionality, while customizable settings allow users to tailor the experience to their preferences. The responsive touch controls and intuitive menu system make navigation straightforward, even for those new to similar devices. Key interface features: Streamlined navigation that enhances ease of use. Customizable settings for a personalized gaming experience. Responsive touch controls for quick and precise interactions. This user-friendly interface ensures accessibility for a wide range of gamers, from beginners to seasoned players. Wireless Connectivity and Versatility Wireless connectivity is a critical aspect of the ROG Xbox Ally X, allowing seamless integration with other devices and networks. High-speed Wi-Fi ensures minimal latency during online gaming and streaming, while Bluetooth compatibility allows for easy pairing with accessories such as headphones and controllers. Connectivity highlights: Stable, high-speed Wi-Fi for uninterrupted online gaming and streaming. Bluetooth support for seamless pairing with various accessories. Reliable connections for both home and portable use. These features enhance the device's versatility, making it an excellent choice for gamers who value flexibility and convenience. Additional Features and Enhancements The ROG Xbox Ally X includes several additional features that enhance its overall functionality and appeal. Customizable RGB lighting allows users to personalize the device, while the built-in speakers deliver clear and immersive audio. The device also supports a variety of gaming accessories, such as external controllers and docks, further expanding its capabilities. Additional features: Customizable RGB lighting for a personalized aesthetic. High-quality built-in speakers that provide immersive sound. Support for external accessories to enhance gameplay and functionality. These enhancements demonstrate the Ally X's versatility and its ability to cater to diverse gaming preferences and needs. Final Thoughts The ROG Xbox Ally X is a well-rounded portable gaming device that excels in design, performance, and user experience. Its powerful hardware, stunning graphics, and seamless Xbox compatibility make it a compelling option for gamers seeking a high-quality, versatile solution. While competition in the portable gaming market is fierce, the Ally X's thoughtful blend of features ensures it stands out as a strong contender. Whether you're an Xbox enthusiast or simply in search of a portable gaming device that delivers on all fronts, the ROG Xbox Ally X offers a comprehensive and satisfying gaming experience. Its combination of robust performance, user-friendly design, and advanced features makes it a device worth considering for gamers of all levels. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
