Rumors have swirled for months regarding a portable Xbox console, and it appears the wait for confirmation is nearly over. Microsoft is collaborating with ASUS to develop a device codenamed Project Kennan, which has recently surfaced in leaked images that have set the gaming community abuzz.
According to reports, Project Kennan will closely resemble the ASUS ROG Ally 2, a popular portable gaming PC. However, this collaboration aims to infuse the device with distinct Xbox branding and features. The leaked images, obtained from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), showcase two versions of the console: one white and another black, featuring a unique Xbox button.
The white model aligns with the existing ROG Ally aesthetic, while the black version sports an Xbox logo prominently placed above the D-pad, hinting at its integration with the Xbox ecosystem. This design choice has sparked a mix of excitement and disappointment among fans, as many were hoping for a more distinctive Xbox identity.
Project Kennan is touted as Xbox's first significant step into the portable gaming market, with expectations that a more robust offering will follow in the coming years. As detailed by Windows Central, the device is designed to function more like a portable PC, running a customized version of Windows 11 optimized for Xbox Game Pass and other gaming platforms.
Rumored specifications for the Xbox edition of Project Kennan include an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor with eight cores and a power rating of 36W, alongside 64GB of LPDDR5X RAM. In contrast, the white ASUS model is expected to feature a less powerful processor with four cores and a 20W rating. Both models will reportedly include a 7-inch LCD screen with a refresh rate of 120Hz, making them competitive with other portable gaming devices on the market.
As excitement builds, the official announcement of Project Kennan is anticipated during two significant events: Microsoft Build on May 19, 2025, and Computex on May 20, 2025. These gatherings could serve as the perfect platforms for Microsoft and ASUS to unveil their latest collaboration.
The gaming landscape is rapidly evolving, with portable devices gaining traction among players. According to data from the IFT, 84% of gamers in Mexico prefer portable gaming devices, and 69% favor the Xbox brand. This indicates a substantial market potential for Project Kennan, as it aims to compete directly with established players like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch.
While the current focus is on Project Kennan, industry insiders suggest that Microsoft has plans for a fully in-house portable console expected to launch in 2027. This future device could further cement Xbox's position in the portable gaming sector, providing a more comprehensive gaming experience.
In the meantime, the community eagerly awaits more information on Project Kennan and its capabilities. With its blend of ASUS engineering and Xbox branding, this portable console could redefine how gamers experience Xbox titles on the go.
As the gaming industry continues to innovate, Project Kennan represents a strategic move for Microsoft, seeking to expand its ecosystem and reach a broader audience. The collaboration with ASUS could be a game-changer, bringing the Xbox experience to a new, mobile format that appeals to gamers looking for power and portability.
With the potential for seamless integration with Xbox Game Pass and cloud gaming services, Project Kennan could become a must-have device for Xbox enthusiasts. As the launch date approaches, anticipation is mounting, and gamers are keen to see how this new console will shape the future of portable gaming.
In conclusion, Project Kennan is not just a new console; it represents a significant leap for Xbox into the portable gaming market. As fans await the official reveal, the excitement surrounding this collaboration with ASUS continues to grow, promising a new era for Xbox gaming.
