In a remarkable feat of ingenuity, hardware modder and talented woodworker Redherring32 has unveiled the very first handheld Xbox console. What’s truly fascinating about this creation is that it’s crafted from the actual modified motherboard of the original Xbox console. This unique device boasts a 9-inch 480p display and comes equipped with modern amenities like Wi-Fi 6 for Xbox Live connectivity and rapid charging via 100W PD USB-C.
This mod stands as one of the Xbox community’s most daring innovations. It marks the inaugural transformation of an Xbox into a handheld device, contrasting the more frequently seen handheld modifications of PlayStation and Nintendo systems.
With the gaming world buzzing with speculation about a possible official handheld Xbox, Redherring32’s creation amusingly beats Microsoft to the chase. While devices like the Steam Deck already serve a similar purpose, it’s entertaining to see an enthusiast step in where Microsoft may eventually tread. Of course, any official handheld Xbox would likely focus on delivering contemporary gaming experiences, rather than those from the original Xbox’s 480p era. Interestingly, the original Xbox has been modded before to push games like Halo 2 to 720p.
Redherring32’s efforts in crafting this handheld marvel are nothing short of impressive. His Twitter account reveals much of the painstaking work involved, detailing the trimmed Xbox motherboard and the twelve bespoke printed circuit boards (PCBs) created specifically for the project.
To further democratize this creative endeavor, Redherring32 has planned to share everything needed for replication on a GitHub page, making the entire project open-source. While we’re eagerly waiting for a showcase video and gameplay demo, they’re still in the pipeline.
This isn’t Redherring32’s first foray into console modifications—his previous projects include “TinyTendo” and “PicoPad,” both open-source ventures that miniaturize the NES into a handheld format and create the smallest NES controller, respectively. It seems Redherring32 has a knack for pushing the boundaries of classic gaming hardware.
