ASUS Xbox Handheld Images Leak Online

Author : Alexander May 29,2025

If you're a fan of portable gaming, you might want to take notice of what could be a significant development in the industry. Photos of ASUS' Xbox-branded handheld device, codenamed Project Kennan, have reportedly surfaced online.

The leak, first reported by 91mobiles and noticed by Eurogamer, features two images of the ASUS ROG Ally 2 — one in white and another in black. These images appeared through Indonesia's certification body, which referenced a now-deleted listing on the U.S.'s FCC website.

Both variants showcase buttons aligned with Xbox's design philosophy (Y, B, A, and X), setting them apart from PlayStation or Nintendo controllers. The black model is especially intriguing, as a distinct Xbox button, though lacking a clear 'X', is visible beside the thumbstick. At this stage, details about the technical specifications remain fragmented, making it unclear whether there will be noticeable differences between the white and black editions.

According to Windows Central's Jez Corden, the devices are currently undergoing testing at Microsoft headquarters. He suggests a potential unveiling could occur around May 20.

Photos of Xbox's "Project Kennan" seem to have leaked. https://t.co/fQiMISNMJZ

— Jez (@JezCorden) May 7, 2025

Last month, ASUS Republic of Gamers' X/Twitter account teased glimpses of both a Republic of Gamers (ROG) Xbox controller and handheld system. The official Xbox account responded with a playful wide-eyed GIF, hinting at an upcoming formal announcement.

This news aligns with previous reports from IGN about Microsoft's gaming hardware ambitions, which included a next-generation Xbox in 2027 and an Xbox-branded handheld potentially launching later in 2025.

Although this particular handheld isn't a Microsoft-made console, the company is rumored to be developing its own first-party handheld, expected to arrive in 2027 alongside its next-gen Xbox. Microsoft Gaming head Phil Spencer has indicated that such a device is still several years away.

In other developments, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and set for release in two years. Xbox President Sarah Bond emphasized Microsoft's commitment to advancing its next-generation hardware, promising a groundbreaking leap in technology.