IT Home reported on May 5 that ASUS ROG Ally is a handheld game console equipped with AMD Ryzen Z1 / Z1 Extreme processor, 16GB of RAM and a 7-inch 120Hz FHD display. While these specs make it a strong competitor to the Steam Deck, what really makes it stand out is its Windows 11 operating system. Thanks to the Windows system, ROG Ally is extremely playable, and gamer YesItsKira recently shared its "second screen mod" for ROG Ally on GitHub.
Since ROG Ally doesn't have an HDMI output on its own, its USB-C port supports DP Alt Mode, so video data can be transferred over USB. Players can expand the ROG Ally's display with a USB-C dock or monitor with HDMI output, but this will undoubtedly reduce its portability.
YesItsKira's mods allow players to enjoy a dual-screen gaming experience at any time, just like they would with NDS. Thanks to the Windows system, players don't need to do any programming operations, and can simply prepare the hardware according to the mod's instructions to complete the assembly.
According to IT House, the module uses a 7-inch portable Wimaxit display, USB docking station, cables, nuts, washers, and threaded rods. If you're able to find a USB-C display, such as the 7-inch Eyoyo monitor, you can connect it directly to the ROG Ally without using a docking station, but you'll need to design and 3D print your own new monitor case.
Assembling a second screen isn't complicated, and if all the materials are ready, it will only take about two hours to assemble the screen and its case, and attach the 3D-printed hinges to the ROG Ally.
Once the installation is complete, players have a dual-screen handheld gaming console. To get the most out of your external display, you need to set it to Extend desktop to this display in your Windows settings. In addition, players can also fold the external monitor backwards to act as a stand for the console.
It's important to note that ROG Ally can't be charged when connected to an external monitor, and it doesn't last very long, so it's best not to use dual screens at the same time if you want to play for long periods of time.
If you don't like do-it-yourself modifications, you can also look forward to the upcoming Ayaneo Flip DS. It is reported that the device has the same specs as the ROG Ally, but with two screens built into it (one of which is smaller in size).