Asus looks increasingly tipped to be a hardware partner for the Xbox handheld, but I’d want more than just a rebranded ROG Ally.

I understand the Xbox work that has hit the headlines this week is actually called Project Kennan, not Keenan. I’m told that Kennan is the codename for a handheld that is being manufactured by Asus, and it’s part of a larger effort from Microsoft to unify Windows and Xbox towards a universal library of Xbox and PC games.

Those rumors about Microsoft making it own Xbox handheld may have been hasty, but we could see the Xbox version of SteamOS instead.

Microsoft's upcoming Xbox handheld will reportedly be made by Asus, and it aims to take on Steam Deck by delivering a new OS to bring "the best of Xbox and Windows."

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.

Sources say that Asus and Microsoft are working together to build the first Xbox handheld gaming console for launch later this year.

Microsoft apparently wants its own handheld PC. The first generation is to be developed in collaboration with Asus.

Following reports earlier this week about Microsoft’s entry into the handheld gaming market, fresh details have emerged confirming that the first Xbox-branded handheld will, in fact, be manufactured by Asus.

ASUSs upcoming Xbox handheld gaming console will run on Windows but will feature a more user-friendly Xbox interface to enhance the gaming experience.

I play most of my games on an Xbox plugged into a 65-inch OLED TV in the living room. Despite this comfy setup, I caved and finally bought a Steam Deck in late 2024, and I’m so happy that I’ve started padding my neglected Steam library once again.