ROG Xbox Ally Pre-Orders Are Expected to Launch Tonight

Gamers, mark October 16 on your calendar because the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X are officially hitting shelves. Built in partnership with ASUS, these handhelds give you freedom to play anytime, anywhere. From grinding runs in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 to fighting through Gears of War: Reloaded, the devices deliver console-level fun in your hands. Even better, the launch spans across the globe in countries like the US, UK, Japan, Australia, and more. Microsoft and ASUS revealed the October 16 release last month, but pricing and preorder details were missing, though it appears that is about to change.

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First spotted by The Verge, Asus teased on Facebook that preorders are “dropping soon” with a countdown that ends today, September 25 at 5PM PT / 8PM ET. Presumably, this means that we’ll finally get info on pricing along with a pre-order launch. That said, keep in mind that listings were once available here on Amazon before being pulled. They might return tonight, though that is not guaranteed. The countdown is no longer available on the ASUS US Facebook page, but the Singapore account does reference it.

Xbox Ally Features Bring Console Power to a Handheld Device

The Xbox Ally lineup is more than portable gaming, it is a handheld designed with console players in mind. Expect a full Xbox-inspired interface on Windows 11, smarter multitasking with fewer background tasks, and an enhanced Game Bar for quick chats, library browsing, and ROG’s Armoury Crate SE. Your Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and other storefront titles all appear in one place.

Inside, the Xbox Ally runs on an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor for balanced power, while the Xbox Ally X uses the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme for maximum performance. The Ally X doubles specs with 1TB storage, 24GB RAM, and an 80Wh battery. Impulse triggers seal the deal for console-like immersion. AI tools like Gaming Copilot guide your play, while features like Auto Super Resolution, arriving next year, will boost visuals and frame rates automatically.

Xbox Handheld Compatibility Program Makes Setup Effortless

One of the biggest wins here is the new Xbox Handheld Compatibility Program. Games now carry clear badges such as “Handheld Optimized” or “Mostly Compatible,” so you know what to expect before playing. Optimized titles deliver smooth visuals, intuitive controls, and controller-friendly layouts from the start. With the added Windows Performance Fit indicator, you get quick assurance that your handheld session will run without a hitch. Think of it as a movie rating system for handheld gaming, but designed to save you time and keep you focused on playing.

Xbox Ally X Delivers High End Specs and Future AI Features

The Xbox Ally X is the powerhouse of the lineup, designed for players who want every advantage. It packs 1TB of storage, 24GB RAM, and an 80Wh battery. Its neural processing unit unlocks AI features like automatic highlight reels and Auto Super Resolution. On top of that, Microsoft and ASUS are working on faster shader delivery to launch some games up to ten times quicker, plus better docking support for big-screen play. The new ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller, featuring anti-drift joysticks and dual-mode triggers, also arrives this holiday to complete the ecosystem.

ASUS ROG 100W Charger Dock Powers and Expands Your Xbox Ally Setup

The ASUS ROG 100W Charger Dock is basically the sidekick every Xbox Ally deserves. Not only does it juice your device at full speed, it also lets you plug into a big screen with HDMI 2.0 output up to 4K at 60Hz or 1080p at 120Hz. With two USB-A ports ready for keyboards, mice, or extra storage, it doubles as your command center whether you’re at home or on the move. Since the charger is universal, phones, laptops, and other USB-C gear can join the party too.

The ASUS Premium 2-in-1 Hard Case is like armor for your handheld, built to shrug off spills, bumps, and those dreaded joystick presses in your backpack. Reinforced edges and YKK zippers keep things secure, while the detachable pouch gives you extra room for chargers and accessories. Flip the middle compartment and it transforms into a handy stand, so you can stash SD cards and keep gaming in café-style comfort.

Final Thoughts on ROG Xbox Ally Handhelds

October 16 marks the arrival of a new era in handheld gaming. The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X offer console-level performance, AI tools, and a growing compatibility program that only improves over time. Whether you are gaming on the bus, between classes, or streaming on a hotel Wi-Fi, these handhelds promise the most flexible Xbox experience yet. Meanwhile, the pre-orders can start as soon as September 25, at 5 PM PT / 8 PM ET.

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