Asus Unveils Official Xbox-Branded Handheld Ahead of Nintendo Switch 2 Announcement

In a significant move for the handheld gaming space, Asus has officially teased its upcoming Xbox-branded handheld console—codenamed "Keenan"—just ahead of Nintendo's widely anticipated Switch 2 Direct presentation.

The announcement arrives via a newly released teaser trailer, giving eager fans the first real glimpse of the device, which is set to join a growing list of powerful handheld gaming systems.

Developed in partnership with Microsoft, the Asus handheld is styled in the vein of the successful ROG Ally series, renowned for its robust hardware and impressive gaming capabilities.

This new model will bear the Xbox branding, complete with the console's distinctive controller button layout and a refreshed user interface designed to align with the Xbox ecosystem.

The official trailer, though brief, highlights the console's unmistakable Xbox features, suggesting a seamless integration with Microsoft’s Game Pass subscription service and home console experience.

While the trailer does not confirm every detail, it boldly promises upgrades like “more capacity,” a “fresh look,” “faster speeds,” and “marathon stamina.” These hints strongly suggest hardware improvements over the current ROG Ally lineup, potentially featuring expanded SSD storage, increased RAM, and enhanced battery life—critical factors for any modern handheld system.

During one standout sequence, viewers are shown a futuristic robotic character at a computer, with on-screen messaging underlining the focus on performance and endurance. Microsoft's official Xbox X account also subtly acknowledged the announcement, lending further credibility to the collaboration without undermining Nintendo’s schedule, as the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is set for the following day.

Industry watchers note the timing—just before Nintendo’s major event—demonstrates Asus and Xbox’s aspirations to position their device as a strong competitor in the handheld segment. The original ROG Ally from Asus has already established itself as a leading Windows-based gaming handheld, offering a blend of PC power and portability.

Now, with the addition of Xbox branding and potential native Game Pass accessibility, Asus aims to deliver a device capable of capturing both Xbox and handheld gaming enthusiasts, while potentially drawing interest from those awaiting Nintendo’s next-generation hardware. Importantly for longtime Nintendo fans, the Switch 2 remains highly anticipated as the successor to the chart-topping Nintendo Switch family, recognized for its extensive exclusive game library and the hallmark Nintendo seal of quality.

While Asus’s new console brings impressive specs and an Xbox ecosystem to the table, it may cater to a different segment of gamers—those seeking versatile gaming options and access to Microsoft’s services, rather than exclusive Nintendo titles. Asus has yet to announce specific pricing, availability, or a release date for the new Xbox handheld.

However, the device is already generating buzz as a possible alternative or complement to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, particularly for gamers seeking high-end specs and diverse gaming libraries. Stay tuned as more details emerge on the Asus Xbox handheld and as Nintendo prepares to reveal the next generation of its iconic Switch lineup.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch 2 Switch 2 Direct Xbox Switch Asus ROG Ally Nintendo Switch