Earlier this week, it was reported that Xbox was working with an unknown manufacturer on a branded Xbox handheld for 2025, to be followed by a first-party handheld at some point in the future (maybe 2027), and now thanks to The Verge, we have a few additional details on what to expect from this year’s version – if indeed it launches this year.
The outlet says in its report that the 2025 Xbox handheld is being created in partnership with ASUS (known for the ROG Ally series of handhelds) and will be powered by Windows – but with an interface that more closely resembles an Xbox.
“The device itself will be powered by Windows underneath but with an interface that more closely resembles what you’d find on an Xbox.”
Apparently, this 2025 Xbox handheld is part of Microsoft’s efforts to try and “unify Windows and Xbox towards a universal library of Xbox and PC games”. As we’ve already heard this year, Xbox’s Jason Ronald has talked about wanting to bring a console experience to PC handhelds, so this new system seems to align well with that strategy.
“Sources familiar with Microsoft’s plans tell me the company’s Xbox platform plans for this year and beyond are centred on one big goal: the unification of Windows and Xbox.”
The report explains that Microsoft is also trying to combine Xbox and Windows to provide a “single store of games”, as well as make things easier for developers to build titles across multiple platforms such as console, PC and handhelds.
In terms of a release date, it’s noted that the Xbox handheld is “likely” to debut this year, but a lot of the work remains ongoing and it remains to be seen whether timelines will change. 2025 appears to be the plan right now though!
