Leaked Photos Reveal ASUS ROG Ally 2: An Xbox Handheld is Coming?

Rumors have been swirling about Microsoft's foray into the handheld gaming market, and leaked photos of the ASUS ROG Ally 2 may have just confirmed those suspicions. The gaming world is buzzing with excitement and speculation after regulatory filings revealed not one, but two versions of the upcoming handheld, including a model sporting a dedicated Xbox button. Is this the dawn of an official Xbox-branded handheld, or simply a deeper integration with Microsoft's gaming ecosystem?

Discovered by 91mobiles and highlighted by VideoCardz.com, the leaks originate from Indonesian certification listings and a U.S. FCC filing. These documents showcase a black variant of the ROG Ally 2 alongside the standard white model. The key differentiator? A prominent Xbox logo emblazoned on a button in the top-left corner of the black version.

Beyond the Xbox button, the leaks unveil some preliminary specifications. Both versions are expected to feature a 7-inch, 120Hz display, similar to the original ROG Ally. However, the internal hardware appears to differ significantly. The black Xbox version is rumored to house an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme CPU with 8 cores and a 36W TDP, paired with a hefty 64GB of LPDDR5X-8533 memory. The white model, on the other hand, is said to utilize an AMD Aeirth Plus processor with 4 cores and a 20W TDP, potentially offering a more budget-friendly option.

The design of the ROG Ally 2 has also undergone some changes, with more pronounced controller grips on each edge promising enhanced comfort during extended gaming sessions. These alterations may result in a slightly thicker profile, but the improved ergonomics could be a worthwhile trade-off.

The timing of these leaks is particularly intriguing. With certification already in progress, a launch could be imminent. Asus often unveils new hardware at Computex, which kicks off on May 20th. This is just one day after Microsoft's Build conference begins on May 19th bringing the possibility to showcase what an Xbox-branded handheld entails.

These leaks paint a picture of a potentially game-changing device: an official or deeply integrated Xbox handheld. Is this a strategic move by Microsoft to challenge the likes of the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch in the handheld market? Only time will tell.

What do you think about the prospect of an Xbox-branded handheld? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!

• ASUS
• ROG Ally 2
• Xbox