Xbox Ally X
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox Ally X.
Latest coverage
Xbox CEO Says “A Family of Devices for Project Helix” is Planned
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma revealed that Microsoft is planning a "family of devices" for its next-generation Project Helix, indicating more than just a single console. Sharma emphasized performance and the integration of PC gaming on consoles, while also acknowledging the ongoing component shortages and the need for innovation in affordability and efficiency. The company is rethinking the console model to offer more flexibility and choice for consumers.
Uppgift: Microsoft vill släppa Xbox 360-spel på pc och Project Helix
Microsoft is reportedly offering rights holders the opportunity to release their Xbox 360 games on PC, potentially through a program called Xbox Backward Compatibility on PC. These titles would also be compatible with future hardware like the next-generation Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, and handheld devices such as the Xbox Ally X. The rollout is expected between 2027 and 2028, with publishers deciding on pricing and Game Pass inclusion.
Play More of the Games You Love, Wherever You Play with XBOX Backward Compatibility on PC
Xbox Backward Compatibility is now available on PC, allowing players to access classic original Xbox games on PC and handheld devices like the ASUS ROG Ally. Initially launching with four titles, this feature is part of a broader effort to preserve older games and enhance them with features like resolution upscaling and customizable graphics settings. Future updates will include Achievements for select titles.
I don't care if MSI's latest handheld costs $1,800, don't pay over a grand for any handheld this Prime…
The author advises consumers against overspending on expensive handheld PCs, particularly during Prime Day sales, citing the high price of the new MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ at $1,800. While acknowledging the cost of devices like the Steam Deck OLED, the article suggests looking for more affordable alternatives and considering refurbished or older models to avoid price inflation in the gaming handheld market.
XBOX CEO Says New Business Model is Needed “Rather Than Premium, High-Performance” Consoles
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma stated that the company is exploring new business models for consoles, moving away from solely focusing on premium, high-performance hardware due to rising costs. This approach contrasts with previous statements from Sarah Bond about a "very premium" next-gen console. Industry analysts suggest cloud gaming subscriptions as a potential alternative for budget-conscious gamers.
Intel just announced two powerful new gaming handheld CPUs, and the timing couldn't be better
Intel has announced its new Arc G3 range of gaming CPUs designed exclusively for handheld PCs, aiming to compete with AMD's dominance in the market. These new chips feature powerful Arc B390 GPUs and power-efficient CPUs, with early tests showing significant performance gains over AMD's offerings. Acer, MSI, and OneXPlayer are confirmed partners for upcoming devices utilizing these new Intel processors.
Steam Deck prices just jumped up $300 and stock still sold out
Valve has significantly increased the prices of its Steam Deck OLED models, with the 1TB version now costing $949, a 46% jump. Despite these substantial price hikes, stock for the handheld has already sold out in some regions, indicating that price may not be a primary factor for consumers. The price increases are attributed to a surge in memory and semiconductor chip prices, largely driven by demand from AI data centers.
Valve just hiked the 1TB Steam Deck OLED price to just under $1,000
Valve has quietly increased the price of the 1TB Steam Deck OLED model to $949/£779, a significant jump from its original MSRP. This price hike places it closer to premium handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally X and raises concerns about future Valve hardware costs, potentially impacting the upcoming Steam Machine.
Xbox Game Development Kit to Offer Power Optimization Options to Help Handheld Development
Microsoft is enhancing its Xbox Game Development Kit with new power optimization tools to aid handheld game development. These features, including 'Power Optimized' and 'Power Optimized Plus' identifiers, aim to reduce energy draw and improve battery life for devices with strict hardware constraints. While Microsoft has reportedly halted its own handheld system development, these tools will assist developers in optimizing games for platforms like the ASUS ROG Ally and Steam Deck.
The Lenovo Legion Go 2 now starts at $1,200, but the version I'd consider is currently AWOL
The Lenovo Legion Go 2 is now available starting at $1,200, a price point that is considered high despite a supposed 25% discount. The article compares it unfavorably to the Xbox Ally and Steam Deck, questioning the value proposition of current high-end gaming handheld prices.
Finally, Windows 11 desktop PC users can enjoy Xbox Mode — and Microsoft has a new gift for Ally X users
Microsoft has begun rolling out "Xbox Mode" for Windows 11 desktop PCs, a feature previously available to Xbox Insiders, which aims to streamline the gaming experience by launching games in a dedicated menu and disabling background processes. Additionally, Auto SR upscaling technology is now available for Asus ROG Xbox Ally X users via the Game Bar, offering improved frame rates and image quality.
Microsoft is reportedly fixing Windows 11 to take on the Steam Machine, but here's what else it needs to do
Microsoft has reportedly launched an internal initiative called K2 to improve Windows 11's performance and reliability, aiming to compete with Linux-based gaming systems like the Steam Deck. The company plans to address user complaints regarding AI integration, performance issues, and unreliability, with goals to achieve performance parity with SteamOS within two years. Additionally, Microsoft is looking to reintroduce features like taskbar customization and simplify the installation process by reducing mandatory Microsoft account usage and prompts for other services.
Crimson Desert's updated system requirements look very promising for any PC gamer, and for what must be a first-ever move, the devs have namechecked the ROG Xbox Ally handheld
Developer Pearl Abyss has released the full PC system requirements for Crimson Desert, detailing minimum and recommended specs for various resolutions and performance targets. Notably, the requirements also include specific configurations for handheld gaming PCs like the ASUS ROG Ally and Xbox Ally X, treating them similarly to console modes.
Best Steam Deck accessories 2026 - our top gear for any gaming handheld
This guide details the best accessories for the Steam Deck and other handheld gaming PCs, covering docks, cases, SSDs, microSD cards, skins, screen protectors, controllers, headsets, earbuds, microphones, USB switches, power banks, and monitors. It highlights top products from brands like Jsaux, Samsung, and Anker, offering advice on enhancing the portable gaming experience.
