ASUS and Xbox have announced the launch date of the ROG Xbox Ally X, a new, more powerful version of the popular handheld PC, which will launch on October 16.
The ROG Xbox Ally X is being positioned as the ultimate portable Xbox experience. While its predecessor, the ROG Ally, was a capable Windows handheld, this new “X” model has been designed in direct collaboration with Microsoft to be an Xbox-first machine. It will feature a streamlined version of Windows 11 that boots directly into a console-like Xbox interface, minimizing background processes and dedicating more system resources to gaming.
This premium model is a significant hardware upgrade over the original. Key specifications for the ROG Xbox Ally X include:
- Processor: A more powerful AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme APU
- RAM: 24GB of high-speed LPDDR5X RAM
- Storage: A 1TB M.2 2280 SSD
- Battery: An upgraded 80Wh battery for longer play sessions
- Controls: A redesigned chassis with more pronounced, Xbox-style grips and impulse triggers for enhanced haptic feedback.
The device will retain the same 7-inch, 120Hz, 1080p display with FreeSync Premium as the previous model.
For those looking for a more accessible option, a standard ROG Xbox Ally model will also be released on the same day. This version will feature an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD, and a 60Wh battery.
Despite the confirmed launch date, ASUS and Microsoft have not yet announced official pricing or opened pre-orders, citing the need to assess “macro-economic” conditions.