The gaming handheld market is heating up, and Asus is doubling down with its next-gen ROG Ally 2. Fresh leaks have spilled details about the device’s storage configurations, sleek redesign, and an unexpected twist—a dedicated Xbox button. From certifications to social media teases, here’s everything we know so far.
Leaked Design: Slimmer Profile, Brighter Display
According to images shared by reliable leaker @94G8LA on X (formerly Twitter), the ROG Ally 2 appears to adopt a more ergonomic design compared to its predecessor. The chassis seems slightly slimmer, with repositioned vents for improved thermal management. Most notably, the bezels around the 7-inch display are narrower, suggesting a larger screen-to-body ratio. Videocardz corroborates these claims, adding that the device may feature a 120Hz refresh rate panel, a significant upgrade from the original Ally’s 60Hz offering (see leaked renders here).
Storage Variants: Up to 1TB and Expandable Options
A filing with Indonesia’s SDPPI Postel certification body (via 91Mobiles) hints at multiple storage configurations, including 512GB and 1TB models. This aligns with reports from ITHome, which claims the device will retain its microSD card slot for expandable storage but could also support faster NVMe SSDs. The move addresses a major pain point for gamers who found the original Ally’s base 512GB storage limiting for modern AAA titles (full specs breakdown).
The Xbox Button: Closer Ties to Microsoft?
One of the biggest surprises is the inclusion of a dedicated Xbox button on the ROG Ally 2’s control deck. Leaked photos from the same X/Twitter source (post 1, post 2) show the button nestled near the D-pad, likely offering quick access to Xbox Game Pass or Microsoft’s cloud gaming services. Speculation is rife that Asus is collaborating with Microsoft on an “Xbox Edition” variant, potentially preloaded with optimized software for Game Pass titles.
Certifications and Hardware Confirmation
The ROG Ally 2 recently cleared the FCC in the U.S. under the code *MSQ-MT7922A12L* (FCC report), confirming support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Meanwhile, Indonesian telecom certifications suggest an imminent launch in Southeast Asia, though a global release is expected to follow.
What’s Under the Hood?
While Asus remains tight-lipped, GSMGotech reports the device could ship with AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM (source). This setup would position the Ally 2 as a direct competitor to the Lenovo Legion Go and Steam Deck OLED, with enough power to handle demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 at medium settings.
Release Timeline and Pricing
Industry insiders predict a Q3 2024 launch, with the standard ROG Ally 2 starting at $699 and the rumored Xbox Edition priced slightly higher. Pre-orders may open as early as June, according to retail leaks.
The Bottom Line
With its refined design, expanded storage, and Xbox integration, the ROG Ally 2 is shaping up to be a formidable contender in the handheld gaming arena. Whether it can dethrone the Steam Deck’s cult following remains to be seen, but Asus is clearly listening to user feedback—and that’s a win for gamers everywhere.
Stay tuned for updates as we approach the official reveal.
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