Key Points:

A gamer named Redherring32 has built a portable Xbox handheld that can run original Xbox games without needing emulation. This custom device has clean video and audio, USB-C charging, and is set to get WiFi 6 support soon. There are also rumors that Xbox might officially release a handheld console soon, possibly similar to the Nintendo Switch.

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A clever gamer has created an Xbox handheld system capable of playing over 1,000 games from the original Xbox library without using emulation. The first Xbox console was released on November 15, 2001, and established Microsoft as a big player in the gaming industry alongside PlayStation and Nintendo. Over the years, Xbox has evolved with newer consoles like the Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, but Microsoft hasn’t really ventured into handheld gaming like its competitors. The closest thing to portable Xbox gaming is using Xbox Cloud Gaming to stream Game Pass titles on mobile devices.

This might change soon. Earlier in 2023, rumors started that Xbox could be working on its first dedicated handheld gaming system. Some insiders shared details about this possible device, and even Xbox’s top boss, Phil Spencer, hinted that we might see an Xbox handheld in a few years. Many believe this device could be similar to the Nintendo Switch, potentially launching around 2028 as part of the next generation of consoles.

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In the meantime, a Twitter user going by the name Redherring32 has built their own portable Xbox based on the original console. This homemade handheld uses a 9-inch 480p screen, an original Xbox controller, and an actual Xbox motherboard. It’s capable of playing every single game from the original Xbox library without needing PC emulation. The device also has clean video and audio output, a USB-C charging port, and will soon include WiFi 6 to enable online play through Xbox Live.

Other fans on Twitter are amazed by Redherring32’s creation, praising them for their technical skills. The creator even promised to share gameplay footage soon, showing off games like *Halo* running on this custom handheld. They’ve also shared some of the technical details of the build and mentioned plans to make the schematics open-source so other gamers can try building their own portable Xbox.

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Talented fans have been creating custom handhelds from older consoles for years, like the portable Nintendo 64 systems seen online. Redherring32’s work follows this trend of tech-savvy gamers repurposing old hardware into portable devices. Meanwhile, Xbox is rumored to be working on its own official handheld console for the first time in its history. Only time will tell if Microsoft will bring such a device to market, but if it does, it could mark a new era for Xbox gaming on the go.