ASUS Xbox handheld images surface online

Photos of ASUS's Xbox-branded handheld device, codenamed Project Kennan, appear to have surfaced online.

First reported by 91mobiles and later spotted by Eurogamer, two images showcasing the ASUS ROG Ally 2—available in white and black variants—were allegedly shared through Indonesia's certification office before being linked to (and subsequently removed from) the U.S. FCC website.

While both models feature Xbox-configured buttons (Y, B, A, and X instead of PlayStation or Nintendo layouts), the black version stands out with a clearly visible Xbox button positioned to the left of the thumbstick—though notably missing the iconic 'X' logo. Current technical specifications remain sparse, leaving performance differences between the color variants unclear.

Notably, Windows Central's Jez Corden indicates the devices are "undergoing public testing at Microsoft headquarters" with a potential announcement targeted for May 20.

Photos of Xbox's "Project Kennan" seem to have leaked. https://t.co/fQiMISNMJZ

— Jez (@JezCorden) May 7, 2025

The leak follows ASUS ROG's recent social media teaser briefly showcasing both an ROG-branded Xbox controller and handheld device, which Xbox's official account acknowledged with a playful reaction gif hinting at an upcoming reveal.

This development aligns with IGN's earlier report about Microsoft's hardware roadmap, which allegedly includes a next-gen Xbox console for 2027 alongside an Xbox-branded gaming handheld potentially launching later in 2025.

Xbox Games Series Tier List

Xbox Games Series Tier List

While this specific Xbox-branded handheld is third-party manufactured, Microsoft reportedly intends to debut its own first-party portable gaming device around 2027. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer recently confirmed a proprietary Xbox handheld remains years from release.

This coincides with reports that Microsoft's next-gen Xbox Series successor has entered full production ahead of its planned 2027 launch—aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's statement about "delivering the biggest technological leap ever in a generation" with their upcoming hardware.