Microsoft shares best practices for devs looking to support ROG Xbox Ally handheld

Microsoft has published a Handheld Development Resource Hub to assist developers eager to bring their titles to its new ROG Xbox Ally handheld.

The company debuted its new hardware lineup, which comprises two devices built in collaboration with Asus, earlier this week and claimed the range will place the “power of the Xbox” in a portable console.

The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X have been designed to cater to casual and hardcore players, respectively, and purportedly combine the “freedom and versatility of PC gaming” with the Xbox experience.

Microsoft said it wants to empower developers to support the ROG Xbox Ally. With that in mind, it has debuted a comprehensive resource hub to answer any burning questions they might have about bringing their software to the console.

The hub includes best practices that Microsoft claims will help developers “craft exceptional gaming experiences for handheld devices,” including a five-point optimization checklist and other tips covering native controller support, battery friendly performance, offline play, and accessibility.

“Devices like the ROG Xbox Ally are redefining portable play—bringing full-fledged PC gaming to players’ hands, whether they’re on the move or lounging on the couch. For developers, this shift introduces new challenges and opportunities,” reads an explainer. “From optimizing performance on compact hardware to designing for smaller screens and varied input methods, building for handhelds requires a thoughtful approach.”

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The resource hub is well worth checking out if you’re at all interested in supporting the ROG Xbox Ally.

The console is currently slated to launch during the 2025 holiday season. At the time of writing, pricing details remain a mystery.