A new Xbox Ally update has just landed, and according to Windows Central's own Jez Corden, it has brought a fresh new soundscape to the handheld console's UI.
Quick Xbox Ally update! Not sure if this is part of the Windows Insider ring, Xbox Insider ring, or whatever else, but the Xbox Ally now has the Xbox Series X/S navigation sounds when you use a controller.Pretty small change that makes it feel way more like "an Xbox."Yeah… pic.twitter.com/zYC8lWNCqVFebruary 9, 2026
According to Corden, the update introduced the navigational sound effects from the Xbox Series X|S consoles, resulting in a small change that has a significant impact toward making the Xbox Ally feel more like its Series console brethren.
The new soundscape is an optional addition to the handheld's UI, and those who aren't a fan of the new audio bits can visit the Xbox Ally's settings tab to customize the navigation sounds. The volume for the sounds can be turned up or down, as needed, or completely disabled if you prefer a quieter dashboard experience.
Corden also reports that, in addition to the new navigation audio, the overall dashboard experience for the Xbox Ally seems to have improved and is more responsive with this latest update.
Significant changelog information for the Xbox Ally has been scarce, despite continued updates working their way to the system. The last update to the ROG Ally changelog forum was way back in November 2025, but the system is expected to receive a major update in March that will turn on the NPU clip recording feature.
Due to the lack of changelog information, we're currently uncertain if this new audio update is only available to Windows Insiders or Xbox Insiders who have access to the Xbox Ally or if the update is for all users.
Windows Central's Jennifer Young recently wrote about her personal experience with the Xbox Ally X after hers stopped working just five short months after purchasing it. Most notably, Young wrote about an influx of failing ROG Ally units mentioned on a subreddit dedicated to the handheld gaming system.
How do you feel about the new console-style sounds of the Xbox Ally handheld? Let us know your thoughts down below in the comments.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
