Ayaneo Launches Next Lite Gaming Handheld in China
Ayaneo, the gaming hardware manufacturer, recently unveiled its latest product, the Next Lite gaming handheld, at CES 2024. This device marks a significant milestone as it is the first non-Valve handheld to come preinstalled with SteamOS. Now, the Ayaneo Next Lite has been officially launched in China, targeting budget-conscious gamers who may not require cutting-edge components.
Standout Features
The announcement of the Next Lite was made through a modest press release by Ayaneo. One of the most noteworthy features of this handheld is its utilization of SteamOS. This operating system has been primarily associated with Valve's Steam Deck gaming handheld. However, Ayaneo's decision to incorporate SteamOS into the Next Lite is a clear indication of Valve's intent to expand its reach beyond its own devices.
The Ayaneo Next Lite boasts a 7-inch 800p IPS display and is equipped with a 47Wh battery. Interestingly, the specifications of this device are parallel to those of the Ayaneo Next Pro. While the Next Pro is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor, the Next Lite may potentially feature a newer processor, such as the AMD Ryzen 7 7840U or Ryzen 7 8840U. It is speculated that Ayaneo may have opted for a less expensive processor for the Next Lite to maintain its affordability.
Advantages of SteamOS
The introduction of SteamOS to non-Valve handhelds, like the Ayaneo Next Lite, represents a significant step forward for Valve. Previously, Valve had expressed its interest in expanding the availability of SteamOS to other machines, particularly handheld devices. While the SteamOS has already proven successful in the Steam Deck, adapting it for other handhelds is a relatively straightforward process compared to implementing it on a full desktop PC. The adoption of SteamOS gives the Ayaneo Next Lite a competitive edge over its Windows-based counterparts, particularly in terms of pricing.
Pricing Details
Ayaneo has positioned the Next Lite as an affordable alternative to the high-end Next Pro. The Next Lite gaming handheld is priced at 1,699 yuan ($289), making it significantly cheaper than the Next Pro, which carries a price tag of $1,215. This substantial price difference is likely due to the Next Lite's use of a less expensive processor and its focus on delivering a budget-friendly gaming experience.
In conclusion, Ayaneo's launch of the Next Lite gaming handheld in China brings forth a promising option for gamers seeking an affordable yet capable device. With its incorporation of SteamOS and competitive pricing, the Next Lite holds great potential in capturing the attention of budget-conscious gamers in the market.
