Asus ROG Xbox Ally & Ally X Launch October 16: New CPUs, Windows Tweaks
▼ Summary
– Asus and Microsoft’s co-branded handhelds, the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, will be released on October 16.
– Pricing and pre-order details for the devices have not yet been announced but are expected in the coming weeks.
– The handhelds will launch in the US and internationally, including Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, with plans for global availability.
– They run on Windows 11 with a special Xbox view for easier control but only support PC games, not Xbox console titles.
– The Xbox Ally and Ally X feature AMD processors, upgradeable SSDs, and improved ergonomic grips over previous models.
The highly anticipated Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X handheld gaming devices are officially set to launch on October 16, bringing a new level of portable PC gaming to enthusiasts worldwide. While pricing details remain under wraps for now, both models are expected to be available across the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, with broader regional availability following soon after.
Announced during Microsoft’s Xbox Games Showcase in June, this collaboration marks a significant step for both companies. Rather than developing its own hardware, Microsoft has partnered with Asus to deliver a dedicated gaming handheld, while focusing on software enhancements. A specialized version of Windows 11 with an Xbox-focused interface is in the works, designed to improve navigation using physical controls. It’s important to note that these devices will run PC games exclusively and will not support native Xbox console titles.
Under the hood, the two models differ significantly in performance. The standard Xbox Ally is equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of LPDDR5X-6400 RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Its more advanced sibling, the Xbox Ally X, features the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip, 24GB of faster LPDDR5X-8000 memory, and a 1TB SSD. Both devices offer user-upgradeable M.2 2280 SSD slots, providing flexibility for storage expansion.
Each model sports a vibrant 7-inch IPS display with a 1080p resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and support for FreeSync Premium, all protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. Where they diverge is in connectivity and battery life. The Ally X includes a USB4 Type-C port with Thunderbolt 4 compatibility and houses a larger 80 WHr battery, compared to the Ally’s 60 WHr unit. Both support Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4 for seamless wireless connectivity.
Pricing remains one of the biggest unanswered questions. Retailers in Europe have inadvertently listed the devices at approximately €599 for the Ally and €899 for the Ally X, aligning them with current handheld market rates. However, official numbers have not been confirmed, suggesting that final costs may still be influenced by factors like international tariffs.
Ahead of the launch, attendees at Gamescom will have the opportunity to test the Xbox Ally systems with a curated selection of games. Titles such as Gears of War: Reloaded, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Final Fantasy VII: Remake Intergrade will be playable, along with Hogwarts Legacy, Lies of P, Balatro, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Roblox.
Ergonomics have also been a focus in the design. Both models feature controller-style grips intended to provide a more comfortable and intuitive handheld experience compared to earlier devices. With powerful processors, upgradeable storage, and a tailored Windows interface, the ROG Xbox Ally series aims to set a new standard for portable gaming performance.
(Source: tomshardware)
