The upcoming Xbox handheld, reportedly being developed in partnership with ASUS for a potential 2025 release, is expected to feature an interface similar to that of an Xbox console, but specific details about the button layout have not been officially confirmed by Microsoft or ASUS. Given that the device is intended to provide a console-like experience, it is likely that it will include a standard Xbox controller layout, which typically features an 'X' button. However, without official confirmation, it remains speculative whether the handheld will have a built-in 'X' button identical to the Xbox Series X controller.
The Xbox handheld is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to unify Windows and Xbox platforms, aiming to create a seamless gaming experience across different devices. This includes running on Windows with an Xbox-like interface, which suggests that the device might incorporate familiar Xbox controller elements, such as the 'X' button, to maintain consistency with other Xbox products.
While there is no definitive information on the exact button layout of the Xbox handheld, its design and functionality are expected to align closely with existing Xbox controllers, which would likely include an 'X' button as part of its standard layout. Further details will likely be revealed as the device approaches its potential launch later in 2025.
Citations:
[1] https://www.xbox.com/en-US/accessories/controllers/xbox-wireless-controller
[2] https://support.xgaming.com/support/solutions/articles/12000100388-xbox-x-s-xbox-one-pc-and-xbox-360-pc-adapters-button-layout-and-instructions
[3] https://www.purexbox.com/news/2025/03/report-xbox-handheld-for-2025-being-made-by-asus-will-feature-console-like-interface
[4] https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/xbox/forum/all/controller-with-new-xbox-series-x-has-sticky/643df687-072f-43e7-9cae-ada7ca68af71
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/retroid/comments/s3d6cs/rp2_is_there_an_option_to_set_the_buttons_to_the/
[6] https://www.purexbox.com/news/2025/03/microsoft-is-reportedly-partnering-on-an-xbox-handheld-device-to-launch-in-2025
[7] https://www.neogaf.com/threads/x-button-in-xbox-and-playstation-controller.1611737/
[8] https://forum.dcs.world/topic/293233-xbox-and-playstation-gamepad-layouts-tedac-only/
[9] https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/microsoft-reportedly-working-on-handheld-set-to-launch-later-this-year/
[10] https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/xbox/forum/all/x-button-phantom-pressing-on-xbox-one-s-digital/82325ec8-d4bd-488b-bd33-53f2fdaf22a1
[11] https://www.tomsguide.com/gaming/a-portable-xbox-could-be-coming-and-could-set-it-apart-from-other-handheld-gaming-pcs