handheld gaming market Archives

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Windows 8 tiles were ahead of their time — The Xbox handheld could be the perfect place for a similar interface

Microsoft plans to launch its next-generation Xbox hardware, including an Xbox handheld device, in 2027. The handheld is expected to be more integrated with Windows, potentially using a design similar to the "Metro" interface from Windows Phone and Windows 8. This new approach aims to streamline game development by aligning Xbox consoles more closely with Windows, allowing for easier porting of PC games. The design of the handheld is still in development, with a focus on comfort and functionality, and it will need to compete with other devices like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck. The operating system will play a crucial role in user experience, with a simpler interface being a priority to enhance accessibility for gamers.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows 11 leak hints at a new UI designed for gaming handhelds

Microsoft is tailoring Windows 11 for the handheld gaming market by exploring a dedicated game mode for portable devices. The latest preview build includes references to a gaming-centric interface that allows users to select their preferred system layout at startup, featuring a fullscreen experience with customizable home apps and shortcuts. Users can activate this mode through OS settings, establishing it as the default interface. The build includes options like “Boot into the full screen experience at device startup” and “Choose your full screen experience,” resembling Steam’s Big Picture mode. These changes may also be integrated into a rumored Xbox handheld, potentially leading to a Windows 11 device rather than a standalone portable Xbox. The new features are linked to the existing Game Bar, which provides essential gaming functionalities. This shift towards a dedicated UI for handheld devices is seen as necessary, as Windows has historically prioritized keyboard and mouse interactions. The evolution could position Windows handhelds as a compelling option for gamers, especially in light of competition from Valve's SteamOS.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

The next-gen ROG Ally looks to be Xbox’s first steps toward handheld gaming

On April 1, 2023, Asus announced the ROG Ally, a handheld gaming PC powered by AMD's Ryzen Z1 APU, which received a four out of five stars rating. In 2024, Asus released the ROG Ally X, rated four-and-a-half stars. A teaser for a redesigned successor to the ROG Ally suggests enhanced performance and the possibility of being the first Xbox-branded handheld. The new device may feature AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU, which includes significant improvements over its predecessor. There are indications of collaboration between Microsoft and Asus for an Xbox-branded handheld, potentially linked to a new generation of consoles in 2027. Pricing and availability details for the new handheld have not yet been disclosed.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

Asus’ latest video teases a possible Xbox gaming handheld

Microsoft has not confirmed plans for an Xbox-branded handheld gaming device, but unverified leaks suggest an announcement could occur this year. Asus is positioning itself as a potential partner, having launched devices like the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. A recent promotional video from Asus hints at a new handheld device that may incorporate Xbox elements, featuring a silhouette resembling an Xbox configuration. Speculation exists that this device could be a modified version of the ROG Ally X, potentially running Windows 11 and supporting Game Pass streaming. The promotional video included phrases suggesting hardware enhancements, but the reality of the project remains uncertain. There is skepticism about the feasibility of a dedicated handheld Xbox, given that many Xbox titles are already available on PC. The video was shared on March 31st, adding to the speculation surrounding its authenticity.

BetaBeacon

March 7, 2025

This quirky new handheld might be the best way to play Nintendo DS games

The MagicX Zero 40 is a handheld device that offers a new approach to Nintendo DS emulation by featuring a tall screen that displays the two screens from the Nintendo DS on top of each other.

Winsage

February 14, 2025

We need a Snapdragon X-powered gaming handheld sooner rather than later — How Qualcomm can challenge the Steam Deck

Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips show potential for handheld gaming devices due to their impressive performance and battery efficiency. Testing of the Snapdragon X Plus on games like 7 Days To Die, Kingdom Come Deliverance, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider revealed comparable performance to the Steam Deck, especially when using Auto SR, an AI-driven upscaling solution. However, Auto SR currently supports only 14 games and is limited to DX11 or DX12 titles. The installation of games from Xbox Game Pass and the Microsoft Store on Snapdragon devices is restricted, with the Xbox app lacking a Game Pass section. There is a significant opportunity for a Snapdragon-powered handheld device, similar to the impact of the Steam Deck, but the current market lacks urgency for such a product.

Winsage

September 5, 2024

Windows 11’s new gamepad keyboard lets you type with an Xbox controller

Microsoft has introduced a gamepad keyboard layout for Windows 11, designed for Xbox controllers, currently in beta testing. This feature enhances the on-screen keyboard experience by allowing users to type and navigate using their controllers. The layout includes button accelerators, such as using the X button for backspace and the Y button for spacebar, with a vertical alignment for easier input. Microsoft is also refining the Windows Game Bar for better compatibility with handheld devices, including a compact mode for smaller screens and improved controller navigation within the Xbox app.

Winsage

September 1, 2024

Asus ROG Ally X review: Better performance and feel in a pricey package

The ROG Ally X from Asus is a handheld gaming device priced at 9. It features a 7-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920×1080, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, and a brightness of 500 nits. The device runs on Windows 11 and is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme CPU with 8 cores and a maximum clock speed of 5.10 GHz. It includes 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM, an AMD Radeon RDNA3 GPU, and 1TB of M.2 NVME Gen4x4 storage. Networking capabilities include Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, while it has an 80 Wh battery with a maximum charge of 65W. The device measures 11×4.3×0.97 inches and weighs 1.49 lbs. Key upgrades include a larger battery, improved RAM, and ergonomic design enhancements. The ROG Ally X offers better battery life and performance in demanding games, although it still faces challenges with Windows as an operating system for handheld use.

Winsage

August 31, 2024

Only Microsoft Can Save Windows-Powered Handheld Game Consoles

The Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck have successfully integrated AAA gaming into portable devices, posing challenges for other companies entering the handheld market, particularly those using Microsoft’s Windows operating system. Many manufacturers, such as Asus and MSI, are opting for Windows due to a lack of resources to develop custom operating systems, despite its drawbacks. These companies face limitations when licensing Windows, as they cannot fundamentally alter its operation, leading to issues like intrusive low battery notifications. Microsoft requires certain software to be included with Windows licenses, which may not be suitable for gaming devices. In late 2023, Microsoft introduced a preview of its Xbox app with a Compact Mode for gaming handhelds, aimed at improving user experience, but it currently only supports games purchased through Microsoft. There are rumors that Microsoft may consider developing its own gaming handheld, which could impact existing manufacturers.

Winsage

August 14, 2024

Xbox Game Bar’s new PC “Compact Mode” offers a glimpse at Microsoft’s gaming handheld future

The Xbox Game Bar is a tool available on Windows 10 and Windows 11 that can be accessed by pressing Windows Key + G, providing functionalities like screen recording and access to Xbox's social features. Microsoft has introduced a "Compact Mode" for the Xbox Game Bar, designed for handheld gaming devices such as the Lenovo Legion Go and ASUS ROG Ally. This mode simplifies the interface for easier navigation with a gamepad and can be toggled on through the settings menu. The new design mirrors the Xbox Guide layout, allowing users to switch between widgets, access games, and view their friends list. The Game DVR feature enables recording of gameplay footage. Although the initial rollout may have some issues, it represents a significant improvement for usability on smaller screens. Microsoft is focusing on enhancing the Windows experience for portable gaming solutions, responding to the demand for more intuitive interfaces in the evolving gaming landscape.