Xbox Launching Partner Gaming Handheld This Year

Xbox is finally getting into the gaming handheld space. According to a new report from Jez Corden of Windows Central, Microsoft is working to launch an Xbox-branded handheld later in 2025.

The report states that it won’t be a Microsoft produced device. Instead, the company is working with a partner OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer).

The device, under the codename “Keenan”, “will look Xbox unmistakably”, the report says. The device will even feature an Xbox Guide button that is featured on Xbox controllers.

Not much was given regarding features. However, there was speculation from the report.

“Given that this is a partner device, similar to Lenovo’s SteamOS partnership with Valve, I expect this handheld to be more PC-oriented,” Corden says. “It’ll most likely run full Windows, putting the Microsoft Store and PC Game Pass front and center, alongside the ability to install things like Steam.”

In addition to the plans for an Xbox-themed handheld this year, Microsoft is targeting 2027 for its next-gen console.

NFD has reached out to Xbox for comment on the claims. Should a response be received, it will be added to this story.

What do you think of Microsoft working on launching an Xbox gaming handheld this year? Is it something you’ll pick up?