Switch 2, Watch Out: The Xbox Handheld Is Real — And It’s Launching This Year

The first images of a mysterious Xbox-branded handheld console have just surfaced online. Codename: Project Keenan. Behind the scenes, a promising partnership between Microsoft and ASUS could shake up the gaming market.

While Microsoft has yet to make anything official, several clues suggest an Xbox handheld console is in development, in collaboration with ASUS. It all started with leaked certification documents revealing two unannounced consoles. One appears to be the direct successor to the ROG Ally, while the other shows signs of being a potential Xbox edition—hinting at a major new push by Microsoft into portable gaming.

Image credit: Xbox

First Look at Project Keenan

The images in question come from documents filed with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the U.S. as well as Indonesian regulatory authorities. From these filings, 91mobiles identified two upcoming ASUS consoles. Shortly after, leaker Huang514 posted never-before-seen photos on X, revealing two variants of the ROG Ally 2.

ROG Ally 2
RC73XA Black 20V 5A 100W
RC73YA White 20V 3.25A 65Whttps://t.co/jgx4HFHUUu https://t.co/QUwZwa8t9a pic.twitter.com/dq3CP2SbA9

— Huang514613 (@94G8LA) May 7, 2025

The black version of the console is particularly eye-catching: it features an “X” on the top-left button, which strongly suggests it could be our mysterious “Project Keenan.”

At the heart of this new device is the powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip, offering performance levels comparable to an Xbox Series S, but in a portable form factor. With 8 cores built on Zen 4—or possibly Zen 5—architecture, this chip targets a TDP of 36W, far beyond what current handheld rivals can deliver.

• Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme (Zen 4 or 5, 8 cores)
• Memory: up to 64 GB RAM
• Storage: 1 to 2 TB NVMe SSD
• Display: 7.4 to 8 inches, 120 Hz, VRR
• Battery: up to 99 Wh
• Design: revamped grip, black & white models

A Clearer Launch Window

Two major events are just around the corner: Microsoft Build 2025 on May 19 and Computex, opening on May 20. These dates are strong candidates for the official unveiling of the new consoles. Microsoft could showcase new gaming features for Windows 11, while ASUS might lift the veil on the ROG Ally 2.

However, keep in mind: this ASUS-branded Xbox handheld won’t support the full Xbox console game library. For that, we’ll have to wait for the true Xbox handheld console being developed internally at Microsoft, likely slated for release around 2027.

That said, the ASUS device will offer full compatibility with:

• Microsoft Store games via Xbox Play Anywhere
• PC Game Pass, which continues to expand
• Steam and Epic Games Store platforms

A compelling option for PC gamers seeking portable power without compromise.

Tech Specs Showdown: ROG Ally 2 vs Switch 2

With the Nintendo Switch 2 also on the horizon, it’s only natural to compare these upcoming handhelds. Despite some surface-level similarities, they’re clearly aimed at different audiences. Here’s a breakdown of how the ROG Ally and the Switch 2 stack up, based on current info:

While the Switch 2 is aiming for broad family-friendly appeal, ASUS and Microsoft are clearly targeting hardcore gamers with a handheld powerful enough to run Cyberpunk 2077 or Starfield natively—no cloud streaming required. The big question remains: will the price tag be a deal-breaker? One thing’s for sure: the stakes are high, and the portable console war just got a serious new challenger.

Xbox Series X|S

Par Alexandre Kor

Editor-in-Chief

Alexandre Kor fell in love with video games playing the original Mario Bros on NES—and that passion never left. As Editor-in-Chief, he ensures the site’s editorial quality, offering all readers an enriching and enjoyable experience.