Microsoft's plans for an official Xbox handheld device are reportedly canceled, with the company focusing on collaborating with third-party manufacturers like Asus, which is launching the Rog Ally handhelds. Microsoft remains committed to developing next-generation Xbox hardware, but not necessarily in the form of a dedicated handheld console, emphasizing a closer integration between PC and console gaming. Xbox president Sarah Bond highlighted the potential for significant hardware advancements in future Xbox releases.
Microsoft announced the ROG Xbox Ally, a handheld Windows-based device allowing native Xbox game play, cloud gaming, and support for PC storefronts like Steam and Epic Games Store, enabling PlayStation PC games to be played on an Xbox device.
The handheld PS Portal device has exceeded Sony's expectations in terms of demand since its launch in November 2023, with the company now focusing on consistently shipping more units to meet the high demand. Despite the lack of official sales numbers, it has been reported as the fifth best-selling accessory in terms of consumer spending, but stock shortages have hindered its potential. Sony is aware of the issue and is working to rectify it.
At CES 2024, rabbit unveiled r1, a handheld AI device that functions like a walkie-talkie with camera capabilities, allowing users to plan itineraries, order food, book taxis, and more without needing a smartphone. Powered by rabbit OS and Large Action Model, r1 aims to provide an app-free online experience, eliminating the need for multiple apps. Co-designed with teenage engineering, the device features a 2.88-inch touchscreen, push-to-talk button, and a rotating camera. With WiFi and cellular connectivity, privacy features, and pre-sales already underway, r1 is priced at $199 with no additional monthly subscription required.
Sony's PlayStation Portal, a handheld device for PS5 Remote Play, is set to launch globally on November 15, 2023. Pre-orders are now available at various retailers in the US and Canada, as well as in the UK. Interested buyers are advised to secure their pre-orders early, as the accessory may sell out quickly.
Sony has revealed more details about its Remote Play handheld device, now named PlayStation Portal, which resembles a DualSense controller with an 8-inch LCD screen. Priced at $199.99, the device can only stream games from a PS5 console and does not support cloud streaming or PS VR2 games. It connects remotely to the PS5 over Wi-Fi and allows players to swiftly switch between playing on the PS5 and the PlayStation Portal.
Sony's Project Q is a handheld device that requires a PS5 and uses Remote Play to access it. It is not a portable games console or a cloud streaming device. Insider Gaming reports that the device's battery life is 3-4 hours, but these figures are not final. The success of Project Q will depend on its price, which is yet to be announced.
The new portable Remote Play device for PS5, called Project Q, will allegedly have a battery life of just three to four hours, according to a report by Insider Gaming. The device includes haptic feedback and adaptive trigger technology of the DualSense, which is likely to be a big drain on battery alongside its eight-inch LCD screen. The success of the peripheral will likely come down to pricing, and Sony is expected to announce more information later this year.
McDonald's China and Tetris have collaborated to release a limited edition handheld device shaped like a chicken McNugget that plays Tetris. The device is in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the chicken nugget. The reason for the Tetris collaboration is unclear, but the device is available exclusively at McDonald's in China for a limited time.
Sony is reportedly targeting a mid- to late November launch for its code-named Project Q streaming handheld device, which utilizes remote play to stream downloaded games from your PS5. The accessory also boasts all of the current DualSense controller features. Sony plans to reveal more details on Project Q "in the near future," including an official name and price point. The company also announced PlayStation earbuds and showed off gameplay footage for Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and Helldivers 2 at the PlayStation Showcase.
