The future of portable gaming just got a serious shake-up. Microsoft’s long-rumored handheld device, codenamed Project Kennan, has finally surfaced—and it’s making waves across the tech world. Leaked through an FCC filing, this Xbox-branded PC handheld looks to blur the line between console and PC, bringing serious performance to your fingertips. Also, ASUS’s upcoming ROG Ally 2 was spotted alongside it, hinting at a significant collaboration. Two devices. One bold mission: dominate handheld gaming. Let’s dive into what these powerful portables bring to the table.
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Xbox PC Handheld ‘Project Kennan’ Details
A Secret No More: Project Kennan Breaks Cover
Microsoft’s long-rumored handheld gaming device, Project-Kennan, has officially broken into the spotlight. The reveal comes through leaked FCC images, showing a compact yet powerful gaming machine designed in collaboration with ASUS. The photos unveil two variants—a black unit featuring an Xbox logo and a white one resembling the ROG Ally 2.
Project Kennan: A Beast in a Small Body
The black model, believed to be Project-Kennan, packs severe heat. It runs on an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme—an 8-core powerhouse with a 36W TDP. This chip isn’t just fast; it’s purpose-built for serious gaming. Microsoft isn’t cutting corners. Backing the CPU is a massive 64GB LPDDR5X RAM stack, promising lightning-fast performance.
Integrated Xbox-style controls bring console-level interaction to this portable PC. Combined with a 7-inch, 120Hz display, this device screams premium from every angle.
ROG Ally 2: Power Efficiency with a Purpose
The ROG Ally 2, decked out in white, is on the other side of the spectrum. It’s more subdued in performance but likely shines in endurance. It houses an AMD Aerith Plus processor with four cores and a 20W TDP. This design choice favors more superb thermals and longer battery life—a clear nod to casual and extended gameplay.
While the memory specs of the Ally 2 are still undisclosed, both models feature the same crisp 7-inch, 120Hz screen for fluid visuals.
Side-by-Side Showdown: Project Kennan vs. ROG Ally 2
| Feature | Project Kennan (Black) | ROG Ally 2 (White) |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Controls | Xbox-branded obsidian chassis | Classic ASUS design |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, 8-core, 36W | AMD Aerith Plus, 4-core, 20W |
| Display | 7-inch, 120Hz refresh rate | 7-inch, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Memory | 64GB LPDDR5X-8533 | Undisclosed |
Windows 11 Reimagined for Portable Gaming
Both handhelds will reportedly run a custom-tuned version of Windows 11, optimized for seamless gaming. This version will support Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games, and other PC ecosystems, creating a unified experience between console and PC.
The goal is simple: deliver top-tier performance and flexibility on the go.
Price Tag Prediction: Premium or Practical?
With Microsoft’s recent price hikes in the gaming space, there’s rising concern over affordability. Despite not being fully built in-house, Project-Kennan may carry a steep price tag. ASUS’s involvement suggests a polished finish and a premium price point. Will that affect mass adoption?
What It Means for the Handheld Gaming Market
The entry of Project-Kennan shakes up the scene. Valve’s Steam Deck and ASUS’s ROG Ally have already shifted expectations. However, Microsoft’s influence—and Xbox branding—could push the market in a whole new direction.
This move reflects a bigger strategy. Microsoft seems determined to fuse its Xbox DNA with PC versatility, carving out a new identity in the handheld realm.
When Will We See It?
Speculation is intense that BUILD 2025 or Computex 2025 could host the official unveiling. If so, expect a marketing blitz soon after. Developers and tech fans alike are watching closely.
The Future of Xbox Is Portable
Whether you’re a console loyalist or a PC purist, Project-Kennan presents a bold new hybrid. It’s not just another device—it’s Microsoft’s vision of gaming on the move.
Final Thoughts
Project Kennan is no longer just a whisper. It’s real, it’s powerful, and it’s coming fast. ASUS and Microsoft have fused design, power, and platform into a compelling package.
What do you think? Will Project Kennan redefine portable gaming, or is the ROG Ally 2 a better fit for you? Share your take below.
Via: Videocardz
