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Microsoft Corp.

Microsoft Xbox Ally Handheld Consoles: What We Know So Far

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Microsoft is expected to officially announce the release date for its Xbox handheld console at Gamescom on August 20, with a potential launch date set for October 16. The company has been working with Asus to co-develop its first-ever handheld console, and prices for the entry-level ROG Xbox Ally and higher-end Xbox Ally X have been leaked, with estimates ranging from 599 euros to 899 euros.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft is expected to announce the official release date for its Xbox handheld console at Gamescom on August 20, with a potential launch date set for October 16.
  • The company is working with Asus to co-develop the handheld console, which will run a revised version of Windows tailored for smaller screens.
  • The entry-level ROG Xbox Ally may be priced at 599 euros (around Rs 54,000), while the higher-end Xbox Ally X, equipped with the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip, could cost 899 euros (roughly Rs 81,000).
  • Leaked retail listings on Google appear to support these estimates, although Microsoft has not officially confirmed them, and prices may be EU-specific.
  • The Xbox Ally and Ally X will have access to Game Pass and PC titles, as well as third-party launchers like Steam and the Epic Games Store.
  • Emulator functionality appears limited in the default UI, but users can still access full desktop apps using dual-boot support with standard Windows.
  • Microsoft has confirmed that it will have demos of both the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X at its Gamescom booth.

Statistics:

  • Potential launch date: October 16
  • Expected price for entry-level ROG Xbox Ally: 599 euros (around Rs 54,000)
  • Expected price for higher-end Xbox Ally X: 899 euros (roughly Rs 81,000)
  • Number of leaked retail listings on Google: multiple
  • User interface boot time to Xbox-style interface: direct access
  • Access to third-party launchers: Steam, Epic Games Store, and potentially GOG
  • Device's operating system: revised version of Windows for smaller screens
  • Number of confirmed demos at Gamescom booth: 2 (Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X)

Sources:

  • Dealabs (French publication)
  • billbil-kun (leaker)
  • Microsoft (official statement confirming co-development with Asus)
  • Asus (retail listings and pricing information)
  • Microsoft (Gamescom booth demo information)
  • Google (leaked retail listings)

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