Gaming hardware giant ASUS has recently offered a tantalizing glimpse into what could be the much-rumored Xbox-branded handheld device. The ASUS Republic of Gamers X/Twitter account shared a teaser featuring its "little robot friend cooking something up," showcasing both a Republic of Gamers (ROG) Xbox controller and a handheld system.

Last month, IGN shed light on Microsoft’s expansive video game hardware roadmap, which reportedly includes a next-gen Xbox slated for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld potentially launching later in 2025. This teaser from ASUS adds weight to these rumors.

The handheld device teased by ASUS sports buttons clearly labeled with Xbox's iconic Y, B, A, and X layout, rather than the PlayStation's triangle, circle, cross, and square or Nintendo's X, A, B, and Y. Additionally, it includes a D-pad, two thumbsticks, and four smaller buttons, though these are not as clearly visible.

What's particularly intriguing is the official Xbox account's acknowledgment of the teaser with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an upcoming reveal.

pic.twitter.com/ONZpeEmNka

— Xbox (@Xbox) March 31, 2025

While specifics such as a release date remain under wraps, the monitor in the teaser hints at the handheld's key features: "Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speeds," and a "fresh look!" These points suggest what ASUS aims to offer in terms of performance and design.

In January, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of ‘Next Generation,’ discussed with The Verge the company's plans to integrate Xbox and Windows experiences for PC gaming handhelds developed by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including ASUS, Lenovo, and Razer.

Although this Xbox-branded gaming handheld isn't a Microsoft-made console, Microsoft is reportedly set to launch its own first-party handheld in the future. Phil Spencer, Microsoft's gaming boss, has hinted that such a device is still years away. Meanwhile, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and expected to launch in 2027, aligning with Xbox president Sarah Bond's remarks about Microsoft's aggressive push toward the next generation of hardware, promising "the biggest technological leap ever in a generation."

Amidst this hardware evolution, there's ongoing debate about the future of gaming consoles. Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently suggested a shift away from traditional gaming consoles in the future, despite major companies like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continuing to develop new hardware. Nintendo is set to reveal more about its highly anticipated Switch 2 in a Nintendo Direct on April 2, where fans are eager to learn about its features, release date, and pre-order details.