Nvidia is exploring a new path in portable gaming by partnering with another manufacturer to develop a handheld console that could challenge current leaders like the Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and several Asian-made devices. The project has been described by MLID insiders as a significant step for Nvidia to expand its footprint beyond traditional PC graphics into on-the-go gaming hardware.
The plan reportedly involves Nvidia supplying its own graphics processing unit to a third-party manufacturer. If realized, this approach would position Nvidia as a key silicon provider for a standalone handheld, rather than competing solely as a chip maker within its own branded product lineup. Today, most portable Windows devices rely on AMD graphics, so the potential Nvidia-powered console could offer a distinctive performance profile and feature set that emphasizes high frame rates and visually demanding titles.
This move would mark a continuing return to the handheld market for Nvidia. In 2013, the company released the SHIELD Portable, a device built around the Tegra 4 mobile processor. While that earlier effort was notable for its streaming capabilities and Android-based library, the hardware faced a narrower gaming ecosystem and a less robust catalog compared with desktop PC standards. The anticipated Nvidia handheld aims to support a broader library of high-quality games, leveraging modern Nvidia graphics features and optimization to deliver console-like experiences on the move.
Despite the ambition, a release date remains unclear. An insider cautioned that the timeline is not aligned with a direct competitor launch for the next-generation Steam Deck. Valve has already aligned itself with AMD for its latest hardware, which suggests a strategic divergence in how major players approach portable PC gaming. As a result, Nvidia’s entry could introduce new options rather than imitate existing devices, broadening the field for consumers who want portable power without compromising performance.
At present, the only widely recognized handheld that features Nvidia-developed components is the Nintendo Switch, which uses the Tegra X1 family of processors. While the Switch demonstrates Nvidia’s capabilities in the handheld segment, it does so with a design and software ecosystem that differ from traditional PC gaming. The potential Nvidia-powered console would aim to carve out a distinct position, offering competitive graphics, efficient battery life, and a user experience tailored for portable play across a variety of game genres.
Earlier industry demonstrations included Intel’s Tulpar, a Turkish portable console concept that highlighted emerging competition in the space. The broader trend shows console makers and chip developers pursuing hybrids that blend desktop-grade visuals with the convenience of a handheld format. Nvidia’s prospective device could appeal to gamers seeking serious performance without tethering to a fixed setup, while still supporting a familiar control scheme and robust software support.