Microsoft Gaming chief Phil Spencer has spoken candidly about his desire for an Xbox gaming handheld. We’ve yet to hear any formal announcements, but a new report claims an Xbox-branded handheld could arrive later this year.
According to Windows Central’s Jez Corden, Microsoft is working with an unspecified PC gaming manufacturer on an “Xbox-branded gaming handheld.” Corden’s sources claim that this unannounced device, code-named “Keenan,” could arrive sometime in the back half of 2025.
“This gaming handheld will look unmistakably ‘Xbox’ we’re told,” reports Corden. The reported handheld will come “complete with an official Xbox guide button, and Xbox design sensibilities.”
Since this is a partner device, Corden believes it will be “more PC-oriented.” In other words, this will be a Windows 11 handheld like the Asus ROG Ally or Lenovo Legion Go S.
Based on this report, it seems this reported Xbox handheld will play games locally, though cloud-based gaming via Xbox Game Pass will likely be supported. As for how the system’s UI will function, it might be a compact Xbox mode made for a handheld gaming PC.
Xbox handheld reportedly arriving this year, new PC-like console in 2027
