Lenovo is reportedly preparing to enter the handheld gaming market, according to a leak from Windows Report. The new device, tentatively named the Legion Go, is set to compete with Windows-based handhelds such as the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally, but with a twist.
The Legion Go is rumored to feature removable controls, akin to the Nintendo Switch, which could set it apart from its competitors. The Legion Go is expected to run on Windows 11 and will be powered by AMD’s latest Phoenix processors. The device is also rumored to boast a variety of features, including a kickstand, a microSD slot, and dual USB-C ports.
While the exact specifications remain under wraps, the leaked information suggests the Legion Go will have back, shoulder, and side triggers, with an additional wheel concealed under the top right trigger. The device is also expected to include a headphone port, volume buttons, and a large cooling vent at the back. Given the detachable controls and the touch-friendly nature of the Windows 11 operating system, it’s likely that the 8-inch display will also be touch-sensitive.
Interestingly, this isn’t Lenovo’s first foray into the handheld gaming market. The company previously built a prototype gaming handheld, the Legion Play, which was never released. Given Lenovo’s strong presence in the PC market, a move into handheld gaming seems a logical step.
The Legion Go will not only compete with the likes of the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally but will also face competition from Ayaneo, a company known for its range of handheld devices, including its latest model, the 2S. The introduction of detachable Switch-like controls could be a game-changer, helping Lenovo carve out its niche in the increasingly crowded handheld gaming market.