ASUS ROG Xbox Ally Series announced as latest portable gaming devices

ASUS and Microsoft have introduced the new ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally handheld gaming devices.

The ROG Xbox Ally

A more powerful on-the-go gaming

These models combine ASUS hardware with a customized Windows software experience optimized for portable gaming.

Both devices feature a design inspired by the Xbox Wireless Controller, with side grips that extend outward rather than blend into the main body. 

The control layout resembles previous ROG Ally models, which themselves took cues from the Xbox controller. 

A new addition is the dedicated Xbox button, which was absent in earlier versions. While the controls are similar across both models, the Ally X upgrades to impulse triggers, replacing the standard hall-effect analog triggers found on the Ally.

The ROG Xbox Ally 

The devices share a 7-inch LCD display with FHD resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate with FreeSync Premium support. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus and includes a DXC anti-reflection coating.

In terms of the chipset, the ROG Xbox Ally X is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, while the ROG Xbox Ally features a new Ryzen Z2 A chip.

The Ally X comes with 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM running at 8,000MHz, paired with 1TB of storage. The Ally, meanwhile, has 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM (6,400MHz) and 512GB of storage.

Battery capacity differs between the two models: the Ally X includes an 80WHr battery, while the Ally has a 60WHr unit.

Both models feature two USB-C ports, though the Ally X replaces one USB 3.2 Gen 2 port with a USB 4 connection. They also include a UHS-II microSD card slot, a headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.4.

Instant access to Xbox games

When it comes to the software, the handhelds run a customized version of Windows, featuring a new full-screen Xbox interface designed for controller navigation. 

This mode minimizes background processes to prioritize gaming performance. The interface supports games from multiple storefronts, including Steam and the Epic Games Store, in addition to Microsoft Store titles.

Microsoft is also collaborating with developers on a verification program to highlight games optimized for handheld play, similar to Valve’s Steam Deck Verified system.

Buyers will receive a Game Pass subscription for an unspecified duration. Additionally, a handheld-optimized version of Roblox will launch alongside the devices.

Finally, the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X will release during the 2024 holiday season in multiple regions, including Australia, Canada, the EU, Japan, the UK, and the US. Pricing and exact availability will be announced later.

Source: Microsoft