Microsoft is making an unexpected entry into the realm of handheld devices.
At the Xbox Games Showcase, a collaboration between the company and ASUS was unveiled, revealing two portable gaming devices: the mid-range Xbox Ally buddy and its premium counterpart, the Xbox Ally X.
As an enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that these devices run full-fledged Windows 11 operating systems, emblazoned with Xbox branding. They provide a gateway to Xbox Game Pass and a vast array of PC games, even extending the opportunity to play popular PlayStation titles that are accessible through digital storefronts like Steam.
What Makes These Handhelds Different from the Rest?
The significant advancement lies in the seamless integration of Windows’ adaptable features with the comfortable feel of Xbox hardware.
As a gamer, I’d put it this way: The standard Xbox Ally I have comes in crisp white, packing a punch with the Ryzen Z2 A CPU, 16GB of super-fast LPDDR5X memory, and a swift 512GB solid-state drive. On the other hand, the sleek black Ally X takes gaming to new heights by leveraging a beefed-up Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip, 24GB of even faster RAM, and a roomy 1TB SSD.
1) Both devices sport a 7-inch 1080p display, boasting a swift 120Hz refresh rate and anti-glare Gorilla Glass, ideal for portable gaming under various lighting conditions. Upon powering up, they instantly open to a custom Xbox interface, bypassing the usual Windows desktop in favor of an exclusive handheld Xbox layout.
Essentially, what you’ll find is an interface that’s user-friendly, quick game loading times, and power-saving background functions to ensure seamless operation. In simpler terms, imagine it as a mobile Xbox with the performance of a computer.
Can It Really Play PlayStation Games?
Absolutely, it’s their ability to handle numerous shop fronts and various clients simultaneously that truly sets them apart.
Beyond the benefits of Game Pass, it allows you to play games not only from Game Pass but also from platforms such as Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, Battle.net, and more. As it operates on Windows, you can customize your gaming experience with mods, utilize applications like Discord, and even initiate PS Remote Play.
You’ll now have the ability to play popular titles like God of War, Horizon Zero Dawn (from PlayStation) and Halo Infinite, Starfield (from Xbox) directly on your personal computer.
As a dedicated fan, I’ve noticed an exciting development: Though Microsoft hasn’t explicitly marketed it, a representative has confirmed that these handheld devices run on Windows. This means you have direct access to the vast array of games typically playable on Windows PCs. Intriguingly, this could potentially pave the way for many PlayStation games that have already been ported to PC to be enjoyed on these devices.
What Features Make the Xbox Ally So User-Friendly?
Users can enjoy life-enhancing aspects, like a unified library system that gathers all their games – regardless of the source – in a single, convenient spot.
On portable devices, the Xbox Game Bar update simplifies access to various functions such as chatting, adjusting settings, using applications, and AI tools including Gaming Copilot. These features enhance both gaming experiences and social interactions.
With seamless integration between Remote Play and Xbox Cloud Gaming, it’s possible to continue playing a game from where you last left off, even if that particular game hasn’t been installed on your device – all thanks to the power of cloud streaming.
When Does It Launch, and Where Will It Be Available?
The pricing details are yet to be disclosed, but Microsoft has announced that they aim to launch both the Ally and Ally X by the holiday season of 2025.
Initially, they plan to debut in significant markets such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, along with multiple European and Asian nations, with more areas coming up later. It’s anticipated that pre-orders will be available towards the end of this year.
Essentially, what we’re talking about is the adaptability of the entire ecosystem, not just the hardware itself. Microsoft is leveraging ASUS’ ROG Ally hardware and Xbox integration within Windows to develop a portable device that competes with the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, and Sony’s PS Portable.
Offering playability for Xbox games, computer titles, and even versions adapted from PlayStation, the Xbox Allies (Xbox Ally and Ally X) might just be the most multifunctional portable gaming devices yet.
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2025-06-09 04:12