ASUS ROG Ally X: The Upgraded Handheld Arrives June 2nd

ASUS had already hinted a few days ago at the release of an upgraded version of the ROG handheld console. According to the latest information, this new console is set to be officially launched on June 2, presumably during the Taipei Computer Expo.

According to The Verge, the new device will not be called the ROG Ally 2, as it is not entirely new but rather an upgraded version. It will be named the ROG Ally X, equipped with the Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and the same 7-inch screen, adjustable from 48 to 120Hz.

The primary improvement in the new machine is its battery life. ASUS has confirmed that the battery capacity has been increased by over 40%. Compared to the original model’s 1.5 hours of classic load endurance, the new device is expected to extend gaming time to about 3 hours, a significant increase, although specific details have not been extensively disclosed.

Additionally, the new machine will support an M.2 2280 SSD, greatly simplifying the process of SSD replacement and expansion. The availability of options for the M.2 2280 far exceeds those for the M.2 2230, thus reducing the cost of upgrading to a higher-capacity SSD.

The new handheld is rumored to feature over 16GB of memory, although the exact capacity and frequency remain unspecified. It will also include new joysticks with added RGB lighting and design improvements for enhanced maintainability. The trigger keys have been refined, but these changes will also increase the weight of the device.

Moreover, the SD card slot has been repositioned away from the exhaust port. ASUS does not acknowledge any thermal issues with the original design; the changes in the ROG Ally X are a result of alterations in the PCB board and design. The specific release date and pricing of the ROG Ally X remain unclear, but it is said to be priced higher than its predecessor.