There are several reports and rumors surrounding an Xbox-branded handheld gaming device set to release in 2025. Here are the key details:
Key Points About the Xbox Handheld
- Release Year: The device is expected to be released later in 2025, though specific dates have not been confirmed[1][2][3].
- Manufacturer: The handheld is being developed in partnership with a major PC gaming brand, with ASUS being a likely candidate due to its experience with handhelds like the ROG Ally series[1][5].
- Operating System: It will run on Windows but feature an interface similar to the Xbox console experience[1][5].
- Codename: The project is referred to as "Project Kennan," not "Keenan" as initially reported[5].
- Features: The device is expected to integrate well with Xbox services like Game Pass and offer a console-like experience on the go[4][6].
- Future Plans: Microsoft is also working on a first-party Xbox handheld, which is expected to be released around 2027, coinciding with the next-generation Xbox console[2][3].
Impact on the Handheld Gaming Market
The introduction of an Xbox handheld could significantly impact the market, potentially challenging Nintendo's dominance with the Switch series. The Xbox brand's strong ecosystem and services like Game Pass could attract a large audience[4]. However, Microsoft has not officially confirmed these plans, and details remain speculative at this point.
Citations:
[1] https://www.purexbox.com/news/2025/03/report-xbox-handheld-for-2025-being-made-by-asus-will-feature-console-like-interface
[2] https://www.ign.com/articles/full-next-gen-xbox-reportedly-set-for-2027-xbox-branded-gaming-handheld-due-out-later-in-2025
[3] https://www.polygon.com/xbox/537029/xbox-handheld-report-2025
[4] https://screenrant.com/xbox-gaming-handheld-compete-switch-2025-op-ed/
[5] https://www.theverge.com/notepad-microsoft-newsletter/628073/microsoft-xbox-handheld-project-kennan-notepad
[6] https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/microsoft-reportedly-working-on-handheld-set-to-launch-later-this-year/
[7] https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2025/03/11/microsofts-reported-xbox-handheld-is-a-decision-that-finally-makes-sense/
[8] https://www.pcgamesn.com/steam-deck/xbox-handheld-2025-report
[9] https://bgr.com/entertainment/xbox-will-release-its-first-handheld-gaming-console-this-year-report-claims/
[10] https://www.reddit.com/r/Games/comments/1j83jng/windowscentral_xboxs_new_hardware_plans_begin/