Microsoft seems to be making sure Windows doesn’t fall behind SteamOS for gaming
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There are some more insights into the Xbox’s first-party handheld. Primarily, it’s that it may be put on hold, after having been teased nearly a year ago by the CEO, Windows Central is reporting that the project is being sidelined. Reportedly, it’s nothing to do with the ASUS ROG Xbox handheld, but rather Xbox’s own hardware.
This might be to do with the fact that Microsoft has a bit of work to do with optimizing Windows for a handheld experience. It became a lot clearer that it has a big impact on performance and the experience, as Legion Go S reviews comparing the SteamOS version to the Windows version show how much lighter and better it is for gaming, with framerates and battery lifespans improving.
SteamOS is expanding its support to other handhelds, which is quite a threat to Windows options, as gamers might lose trust in the OS and want to get the best for their system. Including the general experience and battery lifespan, which are both vital in the best gaming handhelds with their more compact and mobile design. This is likely why Microsoft aims to invest more in its software. We’ve already seen fan-made projects trying to optimize Windows for gaming handhelds with apps like ‘Winhanced‘.
Legion Go S SteamOS vs Windows, Source Dave2D
Legion Go S vs Steam Deck, Source Dave2D
Legion Go S battery life, Source Dave2D
Xbox has plenty of offerings
One of the benefits of using Windows is access to Xbox services, including Game Pass, something that is yet to come to Steam OS. With the Xbox Direct not far off showcasing its expanding portfolio, it proves Microsoft has plenty to offer up for the range, and something that gives it that advantage. This is where the Xbox-branded ROG Ally might appear, too, after being left out of Computex 2025 last week.
The first-party handheld looks to be sidelined following this change in priority. With the likes of partner models in the works, and Microsoft working on Xbox cloud systems to compete against GeForce Now, those are taking the lead.
It also takes a variety of teams to work on, with hardware and software, and those engineers might be needed elsewhere. As a new Xbox console is still expected to come out to compete with the PS6 and Switch 2, it’s likely more of a priority. So it’s not out of the question that an Xbox handheld will exist; it’s just a matter of time before a third-party option comes to light before a first-party one.
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