Does Xbox have a handheld?

As of now, Xbox does not have a dedicated handheld gaming device. However, there are several ways Xbox fans can enjoy their games on the go through Xbox Cloud Gaming and other solutions.

1. Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud)

Xbox offers Cloud Gaming, part of its Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, which allows players to stream Xbox games directly to mobile devices, tablets, or computers. This service is available on various devices, such as smartphones (Android and iOS), and enables Xbox owners to play their games remotely without needing a console. All you need is a stable internet connection and a compatible controller.

• What You Need: An Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, a compatible mobile device or tablet, and a controller (either Bluetooth or connected via USB).
• Supported Devices: Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and PCs.
• Popular Games: Games from the Xbox Game Pass library, including titles like Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, Minecraft, and more.

While this isn’t a traditional handheld gaming console, Xbox Cloud Gaming offers a handheld-like experience by allowing you to play on your mobile device.

2. Xbox Console Streaming

For those who own an Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One console, Xbox also allows you to stream your console’s games to mobile devices or PCs through the Xbox app. This is different from cloud gaming because it streams the games directly from your home console to your mobile device, rather than running them on remote servers.

• What You Need: An Xbox console, Xbox app, and a compatible mobile device with a stable internet connection.

Why Doesn't Xbox Have a Handheld?

1. Focus on Console Gaming: Xbox has traditionally focused on consoles like the Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and now its Game Pass ecosystem. Unlike Nintendo, which has heavily invested in handheld consoles like the Nintendo Switch, Xbox has been less focused on portable gaming.

2. Cloud Gaming Revolution: With the rise of cloud gaming, the need for a dedicated handheld device has lessened. Xbox may prefer to push the Cloud Gaming route, allowing players to enjoy games on mobile devices without the need for additional hardware.

Could Xbox Make a Handheld in the Future?

While there is no dedicated handheld Xbox device, there have been rumors and speculations about Xbox possibly exploring the handheld market. However, with Xbox’s current focus on services like Xbox Game Pass, it seems more likely that they will continue to expand cloud gaming support across devices, rather than launching a traditional handheld console like the Nintendo Switch or PlayStation Vita.

For now, Cloud Gaming via smartphones and tablets serves as Xbox's main option for portable gaming, and it may continue to be the main focus for Xbox fans looking to game on the go.

Want to try Xbox Cloud Gaming? Check out Xbox Game Pass Ultimate here for more details on the service and to get started with streaming Xbox games on your mobile device or tablet.