Asus and Microsoft have officially announced the release date for the Xbox ROG Ally and Ally X handheld consoles, set for October 16th. After a lengthy waiting period, gamers at Gamescom had their first opportunity to try out these devices, which enhance gaming performance with upgraded AMD processors and a refined Windows operating system. While they are not true handheld Xbox consoles capable of playing any Xbox game, they can natively run PC titles and stream Xbox games. Key features include improved design, a vivid 1920x1080 120Hz display, and significant software updates aimed at creating a seamless gaming experience free from traditional desktop distractions. Both models vary in weight, battery capacity, and performance, positioning them as strong competitors against devices like the Steam Deck.

What are the main improvements in the Xbox ROG Ally X compared to the original Xbox Ally?n
The Xbox ROG Ally X features a higher-end Z2 Extreme processor, a larger 80Wh battery, and advanced connectivity options like USB 4 ports. It also has a more responsive and refined software experience designed for easier game launching and multitasking, contributing to an overall better gaming experience.

The introduction of the Xbox ROG Ally and Ally X represents a strategic move by Microsoft to penetrate the handheld gaming market. With the popularity of devices like the Steam Deck, the Ally series aims to offer a more powerful and user-friendly alternative for gamers who enjoy both PC and cloud gaming experiences. The devices are designed not only for gaming but also as potential all-in-one computing solutions, allowing users to install alternate operating systems if desired.