Microsoft Confirms Xbox Handhelds Release Date and Introduces Handheld Compatibility Program

Microsoft has confirmed the launch date for its Xbox handhelds, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, to be October 16, 2025. The handhelds will be available in various markets worldwide. Additionally, Microsoft has introduced the Handheld Compatibility Program, which aims to make thousands of games playable on supported handhelds. Games marked as "Handheld Optimized" can be played without tweaks, while "Mostly Compatible" games may require minor adjustments. The program also includes a Windows Performance Fit indicator to reflect expected performance on supported devices.

Microsoft has confirmed the launch date for its Xbox handhelds, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, to be October 16, 2025. The handhelds will be available in various markets worldwide, including Australia, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, China (Xbox Ally X only), Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States and Vietnam [1].

The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X are designed to deliver an era of handheld gaming that makes it easier than ever to access favorite games from Xbox, Battle.net, and other leading PC storefronts. The devices feature standout features such as the Xbox full-screen experience, a dedicated Xbox button, and an aggregated gaming library. Additionally, the handhelds offer the ability to play natively, via the cloud (where available), or via Remote Play from an Xbox console [1].

Microsoft has also introduced the Handheld Compatibility Program, which aims to make thousands of games playable on supported handhelds. Games marked as "Handheld Optimized" can be played without tweaks, while "Mostly Compatible" games may require minor adjustments. The program also includes a Windows Performance Fit indicator to reflect expected performance on supported devices [1].

The Xbox Ally X, designed for those in search of the most advanced handheld experience, delivers 1TB of storage, 24GB of high-speed RAM, 80Wh of battery, and impulse triggers for more immersive play. The device is the first handheld to leverage the top-of-stack AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, paired with a powerful neural processing unit (NPU) to unlock upcoming AI-powered features starting early next year [1].

The Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X were built to evolve with the future of tech. Microsoft is continuing to build new features and options for players on handheld, with regular updates expected to unlock new capabilities and boost performance. Stay tuned for more details about pricing and pre-orders in the coming weeks [1].

References:
[1] https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2025/08/20/rog-xbox-ally-handheld-release-date-october-features/