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Since theSteam Decks release, weve seen a slew of similar gaming handhelds hit the market.
With the popularity of gaming handhelds, I dont expect the market to slow down.
In fact, I think well see even more devices in 2025.
However, there are some aspects that Id like to see fixed.
With some improvements, its possible that manufacturers likeLenovoorAsuscould dethrone the Steam Deck.
Gaming handhelds are awesome, but they could be better.
Below, Ill detail features Id like to see from handhelds in 2025.
These and similar handhelds are also light enough to comfortably hold for extended gaming sessions.
But while handhelds are portable, Id like to see smaller models that could fit into a jeans pockets.
And that desire isnt unreasonable.
Do you remember the PlayStation Portable and the PlayStation Vita?
Both ofSonys handhelds were just small enough to tuck into your pants pocket.
Despite their diminutive size, their respective buttons and displays were large enough for comfortable gaming sessions.
If companies want inspiration for creating a smaller handheld, those examples already exist.
Granted, smaller handhelds mean smaller displays.
But I wouldnt mind sacrificing some screen real estate to get a more portable handheld.
This includes the Steam Deck, ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go.
The sole exception has been the Asus ROG Ally X, which lasted for a respectable 3 hours.
Now this wont be easy, especially since the top-tier handhelds run onWindows 11whichweve proven is a battery hog.
This would not only free up resources for gaming but also extend battery life.
Games that are optimized for handheld hardware could also help in this regard.
That would not only deliver a more intuitive gaming experience but also better battery endurance.
Better game optimization
The Steam Deck is underpowered compared to its competitors.
Because there are Steam Verified games that have been optimized for the system.
Right now, there is no such thing for competing handhelds.
Optimizing games for different machines from different manufacturers might sound impossible.
However, game developers already do this when making games that have to run on various PC configurations.
This also extends to upcoming new or updated mobile processors for future handhelds, either from AMD orIntel.
Outlook
2025 could be a banner year for gaming handhelds.
Lets hope we see the best gaming handhelds yet in 2025.
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