ROG Ally Update Improves External Monitor and TV Experience

Microsoft and Asus released a software update on April 30, 2026, for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld gaming PCs designed to streamline the transition between handheld and docked play. The update automates several display and hardware functions to make the experience of playing on a TV or external monitor more similar to a traditional gaming console.

The most significant change in the update is the automation of video output. When a user connects an ROG Xbox Ally or ROG Xbox Ally X to an external display, the handheld’s built-in screen now automatically turns off, routing all gameplay to the TV or monitor. This replaces the previous process of mirroring the handheld display or manually adjusting settings to disable the internal panel.

Smart TV Integration and Hardware Support

The update includes direct communication between the handhelds and compatible smart TVs to optimize visual performance. When docked, the devices will automatically enable specific gaming presets on supported televisions from Samsung, LG and Vizio. These include Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Samsung’s Auto Game Mode, and Vizio’s Game/PC Mode.

Certain official accessories provide additional technical capabilities. The ROG Bulwark Dock and the ROG 100W Gaming Charger Dock now support HDR10 output. The ROG Bulwark Dock enables Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) on compatible monitors to reduce screen tearing and improve responsiveness.

Interface and Controller Enhancements

To reduce the need for users to navigate Windows 11 settings menus, Microsoft added a new Display Widget to the in-game Game Bar. This widget allows players to adjust the projection mode, refresh rate, and resolution using a controller without exiting their game. The widget only displays options compatible with the specific TV and setup being used.

Controller management has also been updated. When an Xbox or Designed for Xbox controller is paired while the device is docked, the handheld’s built-in controls are automatically disabled, and the external controller becomes the primary input. This change is intended to unlock docked play for a broader range of titles, including Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.

Other usability additions include a Gamepad Cursor to assist with navigation in third-party storefronts and web browsers that do not natively support controllers. The update also introduces support for Bluetooth LE Audio, which is intended to provide lower latency and higher sound quality for compatible headsets.

AI Upscaling for ROG Xbox Ally X

For users of the high-end ROG Xbox Ally X, the update introduces a preview of Auto Super Resolution (Auto SR) for Xbox Insiders. This AI-powered upscaling technology utilizes the device’s NPU to process DirectX 11 and 12 games.

According to Asus, Auto SR delivers 1440p-like visuals at smooth framerates specifically when the device is docked. The feature allows the hardware to upscale images for larger screens without the performance loss typically associated with increasing native resolution.

More than ever, a docked ROG Xbox Ally device will look, feel, and play more like the Xbox console experience you know and love.

Microsoft

The update also adds an Enhanced Vibration mode in the Armoury Crate settings, providing smoother haptic feedback similar to that of an Xbox console controller. This feature can be enabled globally or configured on a per-game basis through Game Profiles.