For the time being, Microsoft appears to be putting plans for its first-party Xbox handheld gaming system on hold. According to Windows Central, the handheld system was planned for release in 2027, making it a Microsoft priority list for the gaming business. It is worth noting that the handheld on this shelf was not made by Asass, and that the photo was leaked earlier this month.
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The Asus handheld, internally known as the codename Kenan, was released later this year. For the time being, Microsoft has apparently decided to prioritize handhelds created by third-party hardware companies. These handhelds are considered Xbox systems due to the additional buttons that act as Xbox guide buttons that appear on modern Xbox controllers.
The report states that for the company’s own handheld, the team has instead decided to focus on improving gaming performance in Windows 11. These improvements will also affect desktop users, but it appears that priority will be given to improving the compatibility, performance and power consumption of handheld systems, such as ASUS’ Kenan Handheld.
Microsoft’s decision could be caused by Valve’s recent release, with the recent release of the Linux-based Steamos operating system for more handheld systems, which boasts compatibility and compatibility with a variety of handhelds, like Lenovo’s Legion Go S, if you offer better gaming performance and improve battery life on the same hardware, like Lenovo’s Legion Go S, if you have improved the battery life of the same hardware.
It is also worth noting that as an operating system, Windows has been offering the infamous sub-per experience for quite some years on devices that rely heavily on power management, such as gaming laptops and handheld systems. One of the major weaknesses of the operating system – the lack of a consistent way to keep your device asleep mid-match and continue playing – is touted as one of the key strengths of devices like steam decks.
According to Windows Central, the development team working to improve the gaming experience in Windows 11 is focusing on overall improvements to the operating system and handheld gaming system. The improvements born out of this operation could result in Microsoft paying dividends if they ultimately decide to enter the handheld gaming market with their own devices.
Regarding Kenan, the system’s photographs were leaked through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Going in the photos, it’s very likely that Kenan is based on Asus’s own Rog Ally lineup. However, there is an extra button between the left analog stick and the display. This is probably an Xbox guide button. The system also appears to have grips on both sides, similar to what you’ll find on standard controllers.
It is estimated that the system will run on an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip with a TDP of 36W.
Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer previously confirmed that Xbox should have its own gaming handheld, but said that such hardware is still years away from the company.