Microsoft’s Xbox Handheld – Steam Deck Killer or Just Hype?
With Microsoft’s latest plans for its much-rumored portable console, could the Xbox Handheld surpass the Steam Deck?
Discover the latest news about the next-gen Xbox and its handheld console!
The Xbox Portable Console has been officially confirmed as in development, following Phil Spencer’s statements in November 2024. A prototype is already being tested, aligning with Microsoft’s vision of Xbox as a multi-platform ecosystem.
A handheld Xbox device could be a game-changer, not just against Nintendo but especially against Steam Deck. Leveraging the Microsoft game library, particularly Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, it offers a vast selection of games, including new releases, at a competitive price!
Xbox Handheld: Development News in Partnership with Asus
Reports indicate that development is progressing well. According to Windows Central, the next-gen Xbox is expected in 2027, while the portable console, codenamed Project Kennan, should launch in 2025.
New sources cited by The Verge suggest Kennan is being developed with ASUS, the company behind the ROG Ally. The device reportedly features the AMD Z2 chip, though it’s unclear if this is a separate project or a successor to the ROG Ally.
Xbox / ASUS partner handheld “Kennan.”
Everything we know so far, with insights on price, release date, specs, and more: https://t.co/zPOOMjcMiZ — Windows Central Gaming (@WinC_Gaming) March 12, 2025
Xbox Handheld: Rumored Specs, Price, and Announcement Date
According to Jez Corden of Windows Central, Kennan could feature AMD’s Z2 Extreme chip, the most powerful in AMD’s new mobile APU lineup. Expected specs include:
- Processor: 3x Zen 5 Cores + 5x Zen 5C Cores (8 Cores, 16 Threads SMT), variable frequency from 2.0 GHz to 5.0 GHz (3.3 GHz for Zen 5C), 24 MB total cache (8 L2 + 16 L3)
- TDP: Base 28W, configurable from 15W to 35W
- Graphics: 16 CU RDNA 3.5, similar to Radeon 890M
Built on TSMC’s 4nm process, the chip is similar to the Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 but lacking the Ryzen AI NPU while offering a stronger GPU. According to Jez, this could power an Xbox handheld priced around $599, with an announcement expected at Xbox Showcase 2025 in June.
Xbox Project Kennan vs Steam Deck: Potential and Challenges
Project Kennan appears to have the specs for a powerful, competitively priced handheld. While Steam Deck remains a major rival, Kennan might edge it out in terms of price-to-performance ratio. However, software integration could be a key challenge.
The Steam Deck’s success is largely due to SteamOS, whereas many Windows-based handhelds struggle with user experience. Xbox will need to ensure a seamless Windows 11 gaming experience. Heavily relying on the Xbox Game Pass and its “Play Anywhere” philosophy.
In this newest pod, we discuss:
• Copilot for Gaming • Xbox Play Anywhere updates • Cloud Gaming • and more: https://t.co/eA6S0HAbHm pic.twitter.com/8LozlAUNCV — Xbox (@Xbox) March 13, 2025
In Conclusion
We may soon see an official Xbox handheld launch in 2025. Based on what has been revealed so far, it promises to deliver both power and affordability. The Z2 Extreme chip represents a major leap in performance over the Z1 Extreme, making it an exciting prospect. What are your thoughts on Project Kennan? Let us know in the comments!
A video game enthusiast ever since I first got my hands on a Game Boy. Over the years, I've played many different games across various genres, discovering hidden gems and niche titles along the way. I'm also passionate about technology, always up-to-date with the latest news and insight in the PC and Console market. Ready to share and bring you the latest news !
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