Exciting news for gaming enthusiasts: photos of ASUS' Xbox-branded handheld device, codenamed Project Kennan, have surfaced online. As initially reported by 91mobiles and highlighted by Eurogamer, images of the ASUS ROG Ally 2 in both white and black variants have leaked, courtesy of the Indonesian certification office. These images were linked to a now-deleted listing on the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website.
Both versions of the device feature buttons configured in the Xbox style, with Y, B, A, and X, distinguishing them from PlayStation and Nintendo layouts. The black variant stands out with a prominent Xbox button next to the thumbstick, though it lacks the traditional 'X' logo. While specific tech specs remain sparse, it's unclear if there are significant differences between the black and white models.
According to Windows Central's Jez Corden, these devices are currently undergoing testing at Microsoft's headquarters, hinting at an imminent reveal possibly around May 20. Corden shared this update on X/Twitter, sparking further interest in the project.
Last month, ASUS Republic of Gamers teased the gaming community with a glimpse of both a Republic of Gamers (ROG) Xbox controller and a handheld system on their X/Twitter account. The official Xbox account responded with a playful gif, suggesting an official announcement might be on the horizon.
This development aligns with an earlier report from IGN about Microsoft's broader gaming hardware ambitions, which include a next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld expected later in 2025. While the ASUS ROG Ally 2 is not a Microsoft-made console, Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer has hinted that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away.
In related news, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and set to launch in two years. This aligns with Xbox president Sarah Bond's recent statement that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming for a significant technological advancement.
