As excitement bubbles in the gaming community, fresh leaked images of the highly anticipated Xbox handheld console have surfaced, unveiling insightful details about Microsoft’s collaboration with ASUS on the mysterious Project Kennan. These revelations, originating from a recent FCC disclosure, point toward an innovative device that blends powerful Windows 11 gaming technology with Xbox’s renowned ecosystem, promising to reshape portable gaming in 2025.
- Overview of Xbox and ASUS partnership on Project Kennan
- Visual and hardware details revealed by FCC leaked images
- Windows 11 integration and gaming ecosystem implications
- Anticipated hardware specs, performance, and gaming experiences
- Industry context: console development trends and pricing concerns
Xbox Handheld Console: A Look Inside the Project Kennan FCC Leak
The subtle yet revealing leaked images courtesy of the United States FCC have lifted the veil on Project Kennan, Microsoft’s forthcoming handheld console co-developed with ASUS. This new device diverges from typical Xbox consoles by running a full-fledged Windows 11 operating system, positioning it as a powerful hybrid between a PC gaming handheld and a dedicated Xbox system.
The leaked FCC photos highlight two distinctive models: a white ASUS ROG Ally 2 and its counterpart, a jet black Project Kennan unit marked by a dedicated Xbox button engraved with the iconic “X” on the upper left grip. This design underlines the Xbox identity while maintaining ASUS’ well-established ergonomic contours inspired by their popular ROG Ally handhelds.
- Black model: Project Kennan with Xbox branding and controls
- White model: ASUS ROG Ally 2 without Xbox-specific elements
- Both devices embrace ergonomic upgrades and grip refinements
- Likely debut dates align with industry events such as Microsoft Build and Computex
| Feature | Project Kennan (Xbox handheld) | ASUS ROG Ally 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 (full version) | Windows 11 (full version) |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme (8-core, 35W max) | AMD Ryzen Z2 4-core (20W max) |
| Memory | LPDDRX-8533 32GB (exact configs TBD) | Unknown |
| Xbox Branding | Yes, with dedicated Xbox button | No |
Deep Xbox Integration Meets Versatile Windows Gaming
The Project Kennan handheld is not a native Xbox console but a Windows 11 PC-based device that leverages Xbox’s growing presence in PC gaming. It supports the entire Microsoft Store library for Xbox Play Anywhere titles, tying into Xbox’s PC Game Pass surge in recent years. This hybrid approach means the device will run popular stores and services, including Steam and the Epic Games Store, offering a diverse gaming catalog.
Notably, Project Kennan currently lacks native support for all traditional Xbox console games, a feature planned for a later, dedicated Xbox handheld projected for 2027. Instead, it targets users interested in high-performance PC-style gaming with Xbox enhancements, marking a new chapter in how Microsoft approaches handheld console development.
- Runs Windows 11 with gaming-optimized features
- Supports Microsoft Store Xbox Play Anywhere titles
- Full access to Steam, Epic Games, and other PC platforms
- No backward compatibility with all Xbox console games yet
Powerful Hardware and Ergonomic Design Signal Next-Gen Gaming on the Go
Under the hood, Project Kennan centers on the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset, an 8-core processor with a 35W TDP, promising significant power and efficiency gains over previous portable consoles. Complementing this is high-speed memory, possibly up to 32GB LPDDRX-8533, positioning the handheld for ambitious gaming demands and multitasking.
Ergonomics appear to have been a primary focus, with the black Xbox-branded device featuring redesigned grips suited for extended play sessions. While ASUS largely shapes the physical hardware, the presence of Xbox-specific controls encourages seamless integration with Microsoft’s gaming technologies.
- AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme 8-core processor, 35W max power
- High-performance memory likely up to 32GB RAM
- Enhanced grips for comfort during long gaming sessions
- 7-inch LCD screen (120Hz refresh rate expected)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme (8-core, 35W max) |
| Display | 7-inch LCD, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Memory | 32GB LPDDRX-8533 (tentative) |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Full OS |
The Pricing Conundrum and Market Implications
Despite the promising specifications, Project Kennan’s market success might hinge heavily on pricing. The ongoing US tariffs on imports from major manufacturing countries, including China, combined with recent Xbox console price hikes, suggest this new handheld could carry a premium cost, potentially limiting accessibility for casual gamers.
The device’s Windows 11 platform and multi-functionality underscore an appeal to dedicated gaming enthusiasts bound to find value. However, competitive pricing compared to rivals such as the Nintendo Switch or upcoming handheld PCs will be crucial as the 2025 marketplace grows more crowded.
- Expect a premium price due to tariffs and hardware specs
- Xbox’s price adjustment on consoles hints at increased costs
- Competition from Nintendo Switch and other handheld PCs remains fierce
- Microsoft and ASUS likely to unveil further promotional material soon
For deeper insights into console evolution and Xbox’s expanding PC strategy, visit the history of video games and Microsoft’s PC gaming efforts at Microsoft Xbox PCs Gaming. Stay updated on gaming releases to sync your gaming setup with upcoming titles here. For valuable comparisons between current competing handhelds, check the ultimate handheld list at Xbox next-gen handheld 2025-2027 and the ongoing market battle in Xbox vs PS5 vs Switch for 2023.