Xbox Ally and Ally X Launch October 16: Microsoft and ASUS Usher in the Next Generation of Handheld Gaming
Handheld Compatibility Program, AI features, and day-one global availability announced alongside new ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X details.
Microsoft and ASUS are redefining portable gaming with the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, arriving globally on October 16, 2025. These powerful, purpose-built handhelds bring the full power of Windows 11 gaming to your hands—and this time, they’re going all in with AI integration, next-gen compatibility tools, and expanded global availability, including Canada.
Whether you’re skating through Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, battling in Gears of War: Reloaded, or raiding the galaxy in Star Wars Outlaws, Xbox’s new handhelds promise console-calibre experiences—anytime, anywhere.
Launch Details and Global Availability
Launching October 16, the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X will be available across 40+ markets, including:
- Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Australia, and more.
- China will see a staggered release: Xbox Ally X launches this fall, while the standard Ally will arrive in early 2026.
These handhelds are designed to “evolve with the future of tech,” says Xbox—meaning post-launch updates, AI feature rollouts, and game optimizations will continue long after day one.
Key Features: Xbox Ally and Ally X
Both Xbox Ally devices are powered by Windows 11, integrating a console-style Xbox overlay, dedicated game launchers, and access to your full PC library—including Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games Store, and Battle.net.
Notable features include:
- Dedicated Xbox Game Bar for quick access to friends, games, and settings
- Aggregated Game Library across Xbox, Battle.net, and other storefronts
- Cloud Gaming and Remote Play support
- AMD Ryzen Z2 APU in Ally | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme in Ally X
- Gaming Copilot (Beta): A personalized AI assistant integrated into the Game Bar
- Impulse Triggers, expanded RAM, and high-speed SSD (Ally X only)
Ally vs. Ally X – What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Xbox Ally | Xbox Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 APU | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme |
| RAM | 16GB | 24GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 512GB | 1TB |
| Battery | 40Wh | 80Wh |
| AI NPU | ❌ | ✅ (Enables Auto SR, Highlight Capture, more) |
| Impulse Triggers | ❌ | ✅ |
If you’re looking for a no-compromise handheld, the Ally X is the one to watch.
Introducing the Handheld Compatibility Program
Xbox’s new Handheld Compatibility Program is a major win for gamers. It streamlines PC gaming on handhelds, ensuring games run well without endless tweaking.
Look for these new labels in your Xbox or PC library:
- Handheld Optimized: Games that work perfectly out-of-the-box on handhelds
- Mostly Compatible: Games that may require minor setting changes
- Windows Performance Fit: Ratings like “Should play great” give confidence in performance levels
Thousands of games are already in testing, and Xbox is actively working with studios to keep expanding this compatibility list.
AI-Powered Gaming: Ally X Exclusive Features
Starting in early 2026, Xbox Ally X users will gain access to AI-powered enhancements, leveraging its integrated Neural Processing Unit (NPU).
Confirmed AI features include:
- Auto Super Resolution (Auto SR): AI-upscaled visuals for better performance without taxing the GPU
- Highlight Reels: Automatically generates shareable clips of your epic gameplay moments
- Context-Aware Assistance: Copilot can offer tips, guides, or tricks based on your gameplay
As AMD’s Ryzen AI evolves, expect even more AI tools for real-time strategy, storytelling, and tactical feedback.
More Features Coming Soon
Xbox and ASUS aren’t stopping there. Upcoming features in development for Ally and Ally X include:
- Advanced Shader Delivery – Launch games up to 10x faster by preloading shaders during downloads
- Enhanced Docking Support – Seamlessly switch to big-screen gaming with optimized output and controller pairing
- Accessory Ecosystem Expansion – Including the ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller with anti-drift joysticks and 1000Hz polling rate for PC
With Xbox Play Anywhere support, over 1,000 games will work across console, PC, and handheld—no additional purchase needed.
Pricing & Pre-Order Information
- Pricing for Canada and other regions is coming soon, with pre-orders expected to go live in the next few weeks.
- The Xbox Ally X will be available both online and at retail stores such as Best Buy, GameStop, and the Microsoft Store.
- Early units may come bundled with Game Pass Ultimate, the ROG Raikiri II, or bonus storage.
The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X represent more than just a new gaming device—they’re a new category for Xbox.