![[PlayStation 5] Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter – A Comprehensive Review](https://www.truegames.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/PlayStation-5-Tails-of-Iron-2-Whiskers-of-Winter-360x180.jpg "[PlayStation 5] Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter – A Comprehensive Review")
Last year, Phil Spencer, the head honcho of Microsoft Gaming, mentioned that an Xbox handheld gaming device was still on the distant horizon. But this doesn’t mean others aren’t rolling up their sleeves and getting to work, all with Microsoft’s nod of approval. Insiders informed The Verge that Microsoft is aiming to merge Xbox and Windows into one cohesive platform. Among its collaborators is Asus, which is crafting something intriguing called Project Kennan, a gaming handheld possibly making its debut sooner rather than later, thanks to support from Microsoft.
Asus isn’t just focusing on hardware. Microsoft, on its end, is developing Project Bayside, a framework designed to make the Xbox user interface consistent across various devices. This framework will be the backbone of the new handheld, built on a Windows foundation but sporting an Xbox-themed interface. Project Kennan and Project Bayside collectively underscore Microsoft’s ambition to blend the strongest elements of both Xbox and Windows.
The vice president of Xbox gaming devices and ecosystem at Microsoft, Jason Ronald, shared with The Verge their intent to integrate these platforms more cohesively, with predictions of tangible results later this year. Despite the buzz surrounding these projects, both companies have yet to release official statements or sneak peeks that confirm the speculation.
The launch of the Steam Deck by Valve back in 2022 rejuvenated interest in handheld gaming consoles. Yet, Microsoft still retains an edge when it comes to options, especially as many top-tier gaming handhelds run on Windows 11. Enter Lenovo, which recently announced the Legion Go S – tapping into the potential of SteamOS. This innovative device, compatible with Windows 11, is currently available for purchase at $729. However, a more budget-friendly version running on SteamOS is set for release in May, priced attractively at $499. Additionally, Lenovo plans to drop a less expensive variant of the Windows-driven Legion Go S around the same time, set at $599. With just a $100 difference, many like me might be inclined towards the SteamOS option for cost-effectiveness.
This development likely rings alarm bells at Microsoft, particularly with a key partner like Lenovo embracing a popular alternative like SteamOS to be launched in May. Valve’s move signals a more direct rivalry with Windows through SteamOS. Microsoft, already vying for dominance against the PlayStation 5 within the console ecosystem, surely doesn’t want Valve and SteamOS to encroach on the handheld field. To maintain its stronghold, Redmond needs to ensure that Xbox and Windows remain top choices for portable gaming.
