Six months ago, we embarked on an exciting journey alongside ASUS and AMD, unveiling the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X to gamers across 45 countries. These innovative handheld devices seamlessly blend the robust capabilities of Xbox with the versatility of Windows 11, all within a portable format.
In our commitment to enhancing the gaming experience, we have actively sought player feedback, leading to a series of continual updates. We have optimized hundreds of popular games for handheld play, introduced Default Game Profiles, and expanded Xbox mode, among other improvements.
As we move forward, we are excited to announce a new wave of updates designed to elevate the user experience, particularly when the device is connected to external TVs and monitors. The docked ROG Xbox Ally now offers an experience that closely mirrors the beloved Xbox console gameplay.
To ensure you enjoy these enhancements, please make sure to install the latest updates for Armoury Crate SE, the Xbox PC app, Game Bar, and Windows 11. For those just getting started, we have essential tips available to help you stay updated.
Docking Improvements
- Docked play defaults to the TV display
Upon docking your ROG Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X, gameplay will automatically transition to the TV, turning off the handheld display. This feature optimizes the big-screen experience by enhancing resolution, refresh rate, and HDR output.
- Automatic gaming enhancements on smart TVs
Modern smart TVs from brands like Samsung, LG, and Vizio will automatically activate built-in gaming features such as Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Game Mode when your device is docked. In collaboration with ASUS, the ROG Bulwark Dock and the ROG 100W Charger Dock now support HDR10, with the Bulwark Dock also enabling Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for an even smoother gameplay experience. Support for additional Designed for Xbox docks will be rolled out over time.
- Display Widget in Game Bar
With the new Display Widget, players can quickly adjust key display settings directly from the Game Bar using a controller while docked. This feature consolidates essential controls like display resolution and refresh rate into a streamlined, console-style interface, allowing players to focus on their game without navigating away.
- Improved controller pairing for docked play
When pairing an Xbox or Designed for Xbox controller, the built-in controls on your docked Xbox Ally will be disabled, allowing the paired controller to take command. This enhancement simplifies the experience and broadens the range of games available for docked play, including titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Additional controllers can be recognized for multiplayer and couch co-op, and switching back to handheld mode is effortless—simply disconnect your paired controller. For optimal performance, it’s best to pair your controller before docking.
- Gamepad Cursor
The Gamepad Cursor feature enables navigation through experiences that typically do not support controller input, such as web browsers and music streaming apps. This functionality is now being rolled out to all Windows 11 PCs via a Game Bar update.
Auto Super Resolution Preview
We previously introduced Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR) to enhance visual quality and performance. Starting today, Auto SR is available in preview for Xbox Insiders on the ROG Xbox Ally X, allowing us to refine the experience further.
This feature aims to bridge the gap between visual quality and performance, delivering 1440p-like detail alongside smooth framerates on larger screens. As part of this preview, Game Bar integration has been added, enabling Xbox Insiders to control when Auto SR is applied to their games.
We eagerly await feedback from the Xbox Insider community as we continue to enhance Auto SR and expand its applications. For more insights, including examples and tips, please refer to the Auto SR DirectX blog.
Super Wideband Stereo Voice
In December, we enhanced the Xbox Wireless Headset with support for Bluetooth LE Audio. When connected to a Windows 11 device with LE Audio support, such as the Xbox Ally, users benefit from reduced audio latency and improved battery life.
Now, Bluetooth LE Audio on the Xbox Ally handhelds streams in super wideband stereo voice fidelity, allowing players to enjoy high-fidelity stereo audio even while using the microphone for party chat.
Enhanced Vibration
The Enhanced Vibration feature provides a more immersive haptic experience, aligning with the expectations of Xbox devices. In-game haptic effects now feel richer and smoother.
Bring Games from Other PC Storefronts Together in One Library
We have recently revamped the Xbox PC app, allowing users to consolidate their library experience by bringing together installed games from various PC storefronts.
Rolling out this month, the updated library enables users to add, remove, edit, and launch any installed game or app directly from the Xbox interface, including those from other PC gaming storefronts. With the new “+” button, users can add custom games and apps, which can then be personalized by editing names, images, and launch targets. Removing them from the library will not affect the original game or app.
Additional Improvements
In response to player feedback, we have implemented several other updates to enhance the ROG Xbox Ally experience. A complete list of updates can be found in the patch notes.
Handheld Compatible, Default Game Profile and Advanced Shader Delivery Titles
Over the past six months, our teams have focused on optimizing games for Windows 11 handheld devices. To date, we have ensured that over 1,000 PC games are compatible with handheld play through our Handheld Compatibility program.
We also introduced Default Game Profiles, which allow players to enjoy supported games at optimal settings and performance while on the go. Additionally, Advanced Shader Delivery enables supported games to download precompiled shaders, resulting in faster launches and smoother gameplay. Both features are currently supported on the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X.
Many popular games now support these features, including Ninja Gaiden 4, Grounded 2, High on Life 2, The Outer Worlds 2, Ark: Survival Ascended, Monster Hunter Rise, and Gears of War: Reloaded. We will continue to expand support for these features to more existing and upcoming titles, including Forza Horizon 6, set to launch on Xbox and PC on May 19, with early access available through the Premium Edition or Premium Upgrade bundle.
Even More to Come
Our commitment to refining the Xbox experience on the ROG Xbox Ally and other Windows 11 devices remains steadfast. We have exciting developments on the horizon based on your feedback, and we look forward to sharing what’s next. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy this latest array of updates and enhancements. As always, we welcome your thoughts and insights.
