Photos of ASUS' Xbox-branded handheld device, codenamed Project Kennan, have surfaced online, sparking excitement among gaming enthusiasts. As first reported by 91mobiles and highlighted by Eurogamer, two images of the ASUS ROG Ally 2 — one in white and one in black — were leaked via the Indonesian certification office, which linked to a now-deleted listing on the U.S.'s FCC website.
Both versions of the device feature buttons configured for Xbox, using the familiar Y, B, A, and X layout, distinct from PlayStation's triangle, circle, cross, and square, or Nintendo's X, A, B, and Y. The black variant's photo is particularly noteworthy, showcasing an Xbox button next to the thumbstick, albeit without the iconic 'X'. While the tech specs remain somewhat fragmented, 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 HQ, with a potential reveal slated for around May 20. Corden shared on X/Twitter, "Photos of Xbox's 'Project Kennan' seem to have leaked."
Last month, ASUS Republic of Gamers' X/Twitter account teased a glimpse of both a Republic of Gamers (ROG) Xbox controller and handheld system. The official Xbox account responded with a playful wide-eyed gif, hinting at an upcoming formal reveal.
This development aligns with an earlier report from IGN about Microsoft's video game hardware ambitions, which include a next-gen Xbox planned for 2027 and an Xbox-branded gaming handheld expected to launch later in 2025.
While the ASUS ROG Ally 2 is not a Microsoft-made console, Microsoft is reportedly planning to launch its own first-party Xbox handheld in the future. Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer recently indicated that a first-party Xbox handheld is still years away.
Additionally, the successor to the Xbox Series X is reportedly in full production and set to release in two years. This aligns with comments from Xbox president Sarah Bond, who stated that Microsoft is "moving full speed ahead on our next generation hardware," aiming to deliver the most significant technological leap in a generation.
