<div id="readability-page-1"><figure> <img src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/257996_ROG_Xbox_Ally_and_Xbox_Ally_X_AKrales_0145.jpg/query-Y3JvcD0wLDAsMTAwLDEwMCZxdWFsaXR5PTkwJnN0cmlwPWFsbA?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="2700" height="1800" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/257996_ROG_Xbox_Ally_and_Xbox_Ally_X_AKrales_0145.jpg/query-Y3JvcD0wLDAsMTAwLDEwMCZxdWFsaXR5PTkwJnN0cmlwPWFsbA"/> <figcaption> </figcaption> </figure> What does &#34;Xbox&#34; mean? Some might say it can only refer to a box-shaped Microsoft game machine. Others will argue it's a collection of Xbox-native titles like Halo, Gears, Forza, and Fable. I think most would probably agree it's a game console experience, a way to kick back and easily play the latest games without thinking too much. Press the power button, play, press it again to pause. The 7-inch Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X gaming handhelds, on sale tomorrow, don't meet that bar. The cheaper one doesn't even come close. They run Windows 11, and they never let you forget it - not during their lengthy setup process, not when you're trying to … Read the full story at The Verge.</div>

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The Xbox Ally and Ally X gaming handhelds, launching tomorrow, do not align with traditional Xbox expectations. While some view Xbox as a gaming console experience, these devices run Windows 11 and complicate the user experience with a lengthy setup process. The cheaper model falls short of expectations, indicating a departure from the typical Xbox gaming experience.

- The article discusses the meaning of "Xbox," suggesting it represents both a gaming console and a collection of exclusive titles.  
- It critiques the new Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X handhelds, stating they do not provide the expected gaming experience and are burdened by Windows 11.  
- The author implies that these devices complicate the simplicity traditionally associated with Xbox gaming.

Xbox Ally and Ally X review: this is not an Xbox