Has the Xbox Ally sleep mode been fixed?

Yes, recent updates have significantly improved sleep mode reliability on the black Xbox Ally X, though the white model still experiences issues.

What are the main problems with the white Xbox Ally?

The white Xbox Ally suffers from frequent unexpected wake-ups and rapid battery drain while in sleep mode.

Can you play games on the Xbox Ally without saving?

With the improvements on the black Xbox Ally X, you can now reliably use sleep mode to pause and resume games, reducing the need to save and quit.

Home / Technology / Xbox Ally Sleep Mode Finally Works!

Xbox Ally Sleep Mode Finally Works!

14 Dec

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Summary

Windows handheld sleep mode issues are improving after updates.
The black Xbox Ally X reliably saves games and battery during sleep.
The white Xbox Ally's sleep function remains problematic and drains battery.

After initial criticisms, the sleep mode functionality on Windows handhelds, notably the Xbox Ally, has shown considerable progress. The pricier black Xbox Ally X now offers reliable game saving and minimal battery drain during sleep, a significant upgrade. This addresses a key advantage previously held by competitors like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch, enhancing the handheld PC gaming experience.

Despite these improvements, the white Xbox Ally, equipped with a different processor, continues to exhibit sleep-related problems. This includes unexpected wake-ups and severe battery depletion, even after numerous updates. These persistent issues suggest that the specific AMD Z2 A chip in the white model may present unique challenges for Windows' sleep state management.

While most Windows handhelds are improving, the white Xbox Ally remains an exception. Consumers interested in Windows handhelds may consider alternative operating systems like Bazzite for better reliability and performance, though compatibility with certain games may be a factor. The ongoing fixes indicate a maturing market for PC handhelds.