Microsoft Is Reportedly Working on a Handheld Xbox Console
Microsoft Is Reportedly Working on a Handheld Xbox Console

Microsoft Is Reportedly Working on a Handheld Xbox Console

In a surprising and exciting move for gamers, Microsoft is rumored to be developing its very own handheld Xbox console. Codenamed “Kennan”, this device could mark Microsoft’s official entry into the growing market for portable gaming hardware.

A New Challenger in the Handheld Space

According to recent reports, Microsoft has been prototyping several versions of the handheld device, with a focus on running native PC games as well as supporting Xbox Cloud Gaming through Xbox Game Pass. The device is expected to operate on a customized version of Windows, featuring a user interface tailored for gaming — possibly resembling the Xbox dashboard.

What makes this project especially interesting is the potential collaboration with hardware partners, particularly Asus, known for its ROG Ally handheld PC. This partnership could combine Microsoft’s software ecosystem with Asus’s hardware expertise, resulting in a highly competitive device.

Focus on Performance and Portability

The handheld Xbox is expected to feature powerful yet efficient hardware, prioritizing battery life and thermal management to compete with devices like:

  • Steam Deck
  • ROG Ally
  • PlayStation Portal

While specifications remain under wraps, sources suggest that Microsoft aims to deliver a console capable of running modern games smoothly both locally and via the cloud.

Possible Release Timeline

While Microsoft has not made any official announcements yet, industry insiders hint at a possible launch window in late 2025. The timing would align well with the next wave of Game Pass expansions and Microsoft's growing focus on cloud gaming and platform-agnostic services.

What This Means for Gamers

If these rumors hold true, a portable Xbox could reshape the portable gaming landscape. It would offer players a new way to enjoy their existing Xbox library, cloud-streamed titles, and PC games on the go — all while staying inside the Microsoft ecosystem.

Fans are eagerly awaiting more official details, and if Microsoft delivers, this handheld could be one of the most significant gaming hardware releases in years.