Microsoft Pauses First-Party Xbox Handheld to Focus on Windows 11 Portable Optimization

Oh wow, so here I am, sipping on my lukewarm coffee, when I stumble upon Microsoft’s latest antics. You know how everyone was buzzing about their handheld console plans? Well, turns out they’re pressing the pause button on their own Xbox handheld dreams. Why? To cozy up with Asus and polish Windows 11 gaming, that’s why. Yep, Asus’s ‘Kennan’ is getting all the love, as the guys at Windows Central pointed out.

Maybe it’s because everyone’s been having a field day with SteamOS on Windows 11 handhelds. Yeah, I know, some folks rave about Lenovo’s Legion Go S letting you dance between SteamOS and Windows 11 like it’s no biggie. Sure, you gotta kiss goodbye to Game Pass with SteamOS—bummer, right?—but the performance? Chef’s kiss, apparently.

Okay, backtrack with me for a sec. If Xbox handhelds are your jam, here’s the scoop. Microsoft had been eyeing a couple of these gizmos: their own Xbox-crafted wonder and another with Asus. The latter’s been dubbed “Project Kennan,” and rumors are swirling like fall leaves. And hey, Windows Central whispers that “Kennan” is eyeing a release sometime this year. The hardware’s practically done, if you believe the chatter.

So Microsoft’s own home-grown version was supposed to be this all-out Xbox extravaganza. Games galore, but now it’s playing the waiting game. I can’t help but wonder if they’re sidestepping the SteamOS madness. Legion Go S? Asus ROG Ally? Yep, you can juggle Windows 11 and SteamOS like a pro on these puppies. SteamOS wins the medal for performance, while Windows 11 keeps you tethered to, well, everything Microsoft.

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