ASUS Xbox Handheld First Images Leak Online

Photos of ASUS' Xbox-branded handheld device, codenamed Project Kennan, have surfaced online, offering a tantalizing glimpse into what could be the next big thing in gaming. As first reported by 91mobiles and spotted by Eurogamer, two images of the ASUS ROG Ally 2, one in white and one in black, have leaked via the Indonesian certification office. These images were linked to a now-deleted listing on the U.S.'s FCC website, adding to the buzz surrounding this new device.

Both versions of the ASUS ROG Ally 2 feature buttons configured for Xbox, with the familiar Y, B, A, and X layout, as opposed to the PlayStation's triangle, circle, cross, and square or Nintendo's X, A, B, and Y. The black variant is particularly noteworthy, showcasing a prominent Xbox button—albeit without the traditional 'X'—positioned to the left of the thumbstick. While the full tech specs remain somewhat elusive, it's clear that ASUS is aiming to bring a robust gaming experience to the handheld market.

According to Windows Central's Jez Corden, these devices are currently undergoing testing at Microsoft's headquarters, hinting at an imminent reveal. Corden suggests that an official announcement might be on the horizon, potentially as early as May 20, 2025.

Photos of Xbox's "Project Kennan" seem to have leaked. https://t.co/fQiMISNMJZ

— Jez (@JezCorden) May 7, 2025

Adding to the excitement, last month, ASUS Republic of Gamers' X/Twitter account teased a brief look at both a Republic of Gamers (ROG) Xbox controller and handheld system. The official Xbox account responded with a playful wide-eyed gif, suggesting that a formal reveal might be in the works.

This development aligns with an earlier report from IGN on Microsoft's ambitious plans for video game hardware, which include a full next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld possibly launching later in 2025.

While the ASUS ROG Ally 2 isn't a Microsoft-made console, Microsoft is reportedly working on its own first-party Xbox handheld, though Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer has indicated that such a device is still years away. Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and expected to launch in two years. This aligns with recent comments from Xbox president Sarah Bond, who stated that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," with a focus on delivering the biggest technological leap ever in a generation.