Rumor has it that Microsoft is developing an Xbox-branded gaming handheld, and it seems Windows 11 is being prepped for that. The launch of the previously unannounced Xbox handheld is expected as early as this year, but there haven’t been any official details yet.
In a tweet by user Xeno (spotted by Windows Latest), both Beta and Dev Channel previews of Windows 11 have new language experience packs that seem to reference a new user interface that’s apparently being developed specifically for gaming handhelds.
These new references point to something called “Gaming Posture” as well as phrasings like “Boot into the full-screen experience at device startup” and “Choose your full-screen experience.” The data also shows settings for performance monitoring, resolution, controllers and keyboard shortcuts, among other things.
“Gaming Posture” could be a placeholder name or an internal designation for the new user experience that Microsoft is developing. Either way, a handheld-specific interface would be a much-needed step forward, as Windows is currently lagging behind top-dog SteamOS and its user-friendly Steam Deck in this regard.
More clues from Asus
Just yesterday, we got a different sort of clue to the possibility of an Xbox handheld in the form of a video teaser published by Asus. It shows a robot throwing a ROG Ally gaming handheld and a Raikiri Pro controller together to create a new product.
It’s notable that the controller is quite reminiscent of your typical Xbox gamepad, which is prompting many to suspect a collaboration between Asus and Microsoft—not a farfetched move since Microsoft wants to produce its hardware with other manufacturers.
Until now, it wasn’t known who else would be working on “Project Kennan,” the code name for the Xbox handheld. However, Asus would be a good candidate as the company has already launched a powerful gaming handheld on the market in the ROG Ally.
The Xbox account on X reacted to Asus’ teaser in a humorous way and simply posted a meme that could be interpreted as an indirect confirmation. Alternatively, Microsoft is happy about the fanned rumor mill, which brings more publicity to the Xbox handheld that hasn’t even been officially confirmed yet.