Asus and Microsoft are set to unveil their highly anticipated portable gaming consoles, the ROG Ally 2 and a co-branded Xbox model known as Project Kennan, following a significant leak from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This leak has revealed crucial details and images of both devices, stirring excitement among gaming enthusiasts.
Project Kennan, a collaboration that showcases the partnership between Asus and Microsoft, features a striking black model adorned with a dedicated Xbox button. This design choice indicates a deeper integration with the Xbox ecosystem, which has been a topic of speculation for some time. The standard version, likely the ROG Ally 2, comes in white and lacks the Xbox branding but shares many specifications with its black counterpart.
Both consoles sport a 7-inch LCD screen capable of a 120 Hz refresh rate, which promises smooth visuals for gaming on the go. However, the real differences lie beneath the surface. The Xbox version is equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor featuring eight cores and a thermal design power (TDP) of 36W, providing a significant performance boost compared to the ROG Ally 2, which is powered by a quad-core AMD Aerith Plus chip with a TDP of 20W.
Images from the FCC filing illustrate a design evolution for the ROG Ally series. The new models exhibit more ergonomic handles and a slightly thicker chassis, likely to accommodate enhanced cooling systems and larger batteries, which are critical for portable gaming devices. The black model's design is reminiscent of popular gaming handhelds, suggesting that Asus is aiming for a competitive edge in the portable gaming market.
"The Xbox model integrates an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, which is a significant upgrade, allowing for more demanding games to run smoothly," noted a source familiar with the devices. This performance leap is expected to attract gamers looking for a robust portable option.
The upcoming Computex 2025, scheduled to begin on May 20, will serve as the backdrop for the official announcement of both consoles. This timing is strategic, as it follows the Microsoft Build conference, where new gaming features for Windows 11 are likely to be unveiled. The dual announcements could signal a new era for portable gaming, especially with Microsoft enhancing its Xbox app for better integration on mobile devices.
Despite the excitement, some analysts caution that potential buyers should temper their expectations. The Xbox model, while promising, may not support native Xbox Series X and S games. Instead, it will operate on Windows, compatible with platforms like Game Pass, Steam, and the Epic Games Store. The Xbox button's primary function appears to be enhancing user experience rather than offering exclusive Xbox titles.
"It's essential to understand that while this device brings Xbox branding, it won't replace traditional consoles for hardcore gamers. It’s more of a bridge into the portable gaming space," explained a gaming industry expert.
Asus has also hinted at significant storage capabilities, with reports suggesting a 2TB NVME M2 storage option for the devices, which is quite substantial compared to typical offerings in the portable console market. This feature could make the ROG Ally 2 and Project Kennan appealing to gamers who value extensive game libraries.
However, with the ongoing global supply chain issues and rising production costs, the pricing of these devices remains uncertain. Previous Xbox consoles have seen price increases, and the same could apply here, raising questions about affordability in a competitive market.
As the gaming community eagerly awaits further details, the buzz surrounding the ROG Ally 2 and Project Kennan continues to grow. The anticipation is palpable, especially with the potential for groundbreaking features that could redefine portable gaming.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Asus and Microsoft marks a significant step in the evolution of portable gaming. With the official announcements just around the corner, gamers are left to speculate on the capabilities and pricing of these innovative devices. The upcoming events in May promise to deliver exciting news that could change the landscape of portable gaming.
