Gaming handhelds are heating up the market with new competitors emerging to challenge the Steam Deck's dominance. Recent regulatory filings have now given us our first glimpse at not one but two highly anticipated devices from Asus - the next-generation ROG Ally and a surprising Xbox-branded variant.
The Leak Source
Images of both devices have surfaced through an unexpected channel - regulatory filings with the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Initially spotted by Indonesian publication 91Mobiles through local certification listings, Twitter user Huang514613 connected these to FCC documentation that included clear photos of two distinct models: the RC73XA and RC73YA. These filings, required for wireless device approval, have inadvertently provided the tech community with an early look at Asus's upcoming gaming hardware.
Two Distinct Models
The leaked images reveal two visually similar yet distinctly branded handhelds. The white model appears to be the standard Asus ROG Ally 2, following the design language of its predecessor but with notable ergonomic improvements. More intriguingly, the black variant features an Xbox button prominently placed in the top-left corner, seemingly confirming long-standing rumors about Microsoft partnering with Asus on a branded gaming handheld codenamed Project Kennan.
Hardware Specifications
According to the regulatory filings, both devices will feature a 7-inch, 120Hz LCD display, maintaining similar screen specifications to the original ROG Ally. However, the internal hardware shows a significant divergence between the two models. The Xbox-branded RC73XA reportedly houses the more powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, an 8-core CPU with 32GB of RAM and an impressive 35-watt TDP capability. Meanwhile, the standard white ROG Ally 2 (RC73YA) appears to utilize the more modest AMD AERITH Plus, featuring a 4-core CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 20-watt TDP.
ROG Ally 2 vs Xbox "Project Kennan" Specifications
| Feature | ROG Ally 2 (RC73YA) | Xbox "Project Kennan" (RC73XA) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 7-inch, 120Hz LCD | 7-inch, 120Hz LCD |
| Processor | AMD AERITH Plus (4-core) | AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme (8-core) |
| RAM | 16GB | 32GB |
| TDP | Up to 20W | Up to 35W |
| Design | White chassis | Black chassis with Xbox button |
| Expected Reveal | Computex (May 20, 2025) | Microsoft Build (May 19, 2025) |
Design Evolution
The physical design of both handhelds shows evolution from the original ROG Ally. The new models feature more pronounced, ergonomically sculpted controller grips on each edge, replacing the flatter, sloped design of the first generation. While this change makes the devices appear somewhat bulkier, it likely addresses comfort concerns for extended gaming sessions - a common criticism of many handheld gaming devices.
Microsoft's Handheld Strategy
This Xbox-branded handheld appears to be just the beginning of Microsoft's portable gaming ambitions. According to recent reporting by Windows Central, Project Kennan represents an initial collaboration, with Microsoft planning to release its own first-party Xbox handheld around 2027, alongside the successor to the Xbox Series X. That future device is rumored to feature direct-to-cloud connectivity and other advanced features.
Official Teasers
Neither company has been particularly subtle about the collaboration. Asus previously teased that they were cooking something new, to which Xbox's social media channels responded with a meme strongly hinting at a partnership. Xbox Gaming Devices VP Jason Ronald has also publicly discussed Microsoft's handheld gaming aspirations, stating at CES that their goal is to combine the best elements of both Xbox and Windows ecosystems for an optimal portable gaming experience.
Imminent Reveal
With certification processes already underway, an official announcement seems imminent. Industry observers speculate that a reveal could come during Computex, which begins on May 20th, or possibly during Microsoft's Build conference starting May 19th. These back-to-back events provide an ideal platform for both companies to showcase their collaborative hardware.
Market Positioning
The existence of two distinct models with significantly different performance profiles suggests a strategic approach to the handheld market. The higher-powered Xbox variant could target enthusiast gamers looking for console-like performance in a portable form factor, while the standard ROG Ally 2 might aim for a more accessible price point while still offering substantial improvements over its predecessor.