The original ROG Ally handhelds are soon getting a big update – and one content creator has gotten it early. We’re a week away from the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X launch. The new Xbox-branded models have been available for pre-order since September 25th, and the full release date is confirmed for October 16th. However, despite all the improvements coming to the new models, we imagine that many existing ROG Ally users will want to stick with what they’ve got, especially if you own the ROG Ally X.

One of the best features of the Xbox Ally is the Xbox full screen experience. The thing is, we’ve already had a glimpse of this ‘Xbox Mode’ thanks to an early Windows Insider build. While it’s set to be exclusive to the new Xbox models for at least the remainder of 2025, it will eventually be available to all Windows handhelds. But that’s not the feature we’re talking about today. Instead, there’s an unassuming patch that integrates Armoury Crate into the Xbox Game Bar.

ROG Ally X gets an Armoury Crate update

This update will not be available to all users just yet, and you’ll likely need to be on the latest Windows Insider build to actually receive it on your ROG Ally. This news comes from Andy (of the YouTuber duo 128KB), who was recently testing their ROG Ally X and was prompted to update Armoury Crate. It now resembles the version used on the Xbox Ally devices (as seen at Gamescom), notably with a new ‘Gaming Panel’ layout. If you prefer the old look, you can still revert it to ‘Classic Grid Mode’.

The Command Center is now placed directly within the Xbox Game Bar for easier access to your device’s settings, and the whole thing simply looks cleaner. Again, you’ll probably need to be on the early Windows Insider build to receive this update; Andy makes it clear that they are opted in to both the Windows Insider and Xbox Insider programs. The YouTuber claims that the update will “apparently” be available to the public on October 13th, just a few days before the new Xbox models launch.

Unlike the new Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, the original handhelds lack the dedicated Xbox button, but that doesn’t mean you can’t easily switch between desktop mode and the Xbox full screen experience – this can still be done with a simple swipe from the bottom of the screen. Holding the Command Center button still takes you to the Ctrl + Alt + Delete menu.

Overall, the new Command Center looks great with better customization and organization tools, and Xbox Game Bar integration is a welcome addition – it functions more akin to Center M on the MSI Claw handhelds. While the video focuses on the Ally X, there is little reason why the original ROG Ally won’t get this update, but we’ll have to wait and see before confirming this.

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Charlie Noon

Charlie is the Affiliate manager for PC Guide. He has a vast understanding of most PC hardware and consumer essentials, using his knowledge to provide the best products and the biggest deals.