Microsoft Postpones First-Party Xbox Handheld to Focus on Windows 11 Portable Optimization

Alright, let’s dive into this whirlwind of gaming gadgets and Microsoft’s latest moves. So, Microsoft’s been dabbling, scratch that — creating, this supposed Xbox handheld thing but turns out they’re switching gears. Blame Windows 11 or maybe that elusive Asus contraption called ‘Kennan’ — thanks, Windows Central for the scoop.

Why are they side-stepping? Well, the world seems to be going nuts over SteamOS on these tiny gaming bricks that run Windows 11. Lenovo’s Legion Go S is living proof of this curious blend. Sure, you lose some Game Pass fun on SteamOS, but hey, the performance makes up for the grief. Like a weird trade-off, right?

Now, if you’ve been living under a rock or just ignoring Xbox handheld scuttlebutt, let me catch you up — Microsoft was cooking up several portable gaming machines. Not just theirs but also one with Asus, tagged “Kennan”. Rumor mills are churning, talking about a launch sometime this year. The hardware’s almost a done deal, apparently.

Switching gears again — Microsoft’s homemade project sounded like Xbox shrunken into a portable form. Dreams dashed though, it’s delayed. For now. Windows 11 being the boss OS for handhelds has taken an unexpected twist with SteamOS sneaking in. Legion Go S and Asus ROG Ally are juggling both systems. Each OS has its charm — Steam OS for speed demons and Windows 11 for those tethered to its ecosystem.

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