Tag: handheld gaming

May 26, 2025
MagicX Launch Date Announced for Nintendo DS Gaming Handheld
Key Takeaways
1. The Zero 40 was revealed before the Mini Zero 28 and targets Nintendo DS and TATE arcade emulator fans.
2. The device features a 4-inch display with a 5:3 aspect ratio, enhancing TATE emulation capabilities.
3. MagicX confirmed that the Zero 40 will launch globally on June 17, initially in black and white colors.
4. The expected retail price for the Zero 40 is $75, and it includes an Allwinner A133P chipset, 2 GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 4,300 mAh battery.
5. The device supports Bluetooth 4.2, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, stereo speakers, and microSD card expansion up to 512 GB, all within a compact size of 136 x 105 x 17 mm and weighing 182 g.
The Zero 40 has been in the works for quite some time. It was revealed before the Mini Zero 28, making its debut late last year aimed at Nintendo DS and TATE arcade emulator fans. Interestingly, MagicX has updated the Mini Zero 28 with a V2 version that reportedly enhances various aspects compared to its Anbernic RG28XX (currently priced at $49.99 on Amazon).
Long-Awaited Reveal
After a period of quiet, MagicX finally presented the Zero 40 in an extensive hands-on video. The company utilized this video to highlight the device’s TATE emulation features, which are made possible by its 4-inch display with a 5:3 aspect ratio. Furthermore, they have listed the device on their website, including comprehensive hardware specs.
Launch Information
In a recent post on Discord, MagicX confirmed that the Zero 40 will be available starting on June 17. This device will be released globally, but initially, it will only be offered in black and white colors, even though a translucent version was previously showcased. More color choices are expected to come later, but the company has not specified when this will happen.
Pricing and Specifications
Currently, the Zero 40 is expected to retail for $75. It is equipped with an Allwinner A133P chipset, alongside 2 GB of DDR4 RAM and a 4,300 mAh battery. The device is rated for about 5-7 hours of use per charge and includes Bluetooth 4.2, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, stereo speakers, and supports microSD card expansion of up to 512 GB, all within a compact body of 136 x 105 x 17 mm and weighing 182 g. For further information, check out MagicX’s website.
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Tags: handheld gaming, MagicX, Zero 40
May 20, 2025
MagicX Zero 40 Specs, Pricing, and TATE Gameplay Details Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. MagicX is developing the Zero 40 for Nintendo DS emulation and has three other handheld devices in the works, including one with dual screens.
2. The Zero 40 features a vertical display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, a 4-inch diagonal size, and includes 30 classic arcade games.
3. It has a 4,300 mAh battery that lasts up to 7 hours, 2 GB of DDR4 RAM, and an Allwinner A133P chipset.
4. The device will run on Android and support Bluetooth 4.2 and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, with available colors including Black, White, and Blue Transparent.
5. The expected launch price for the Zero 40 is around $75, but the exact release date is still unknown.
A few months ago, MagicX gave a sneak peek at the Zero 40, suggesting it could be used for Nintendo DS emulation. They also mentioned that they have three other handheld gaming devices in development, including one with dual screens. Recently, without much warning, the company started taking pre-orders for the Mini Zero 28 V2, which features some upgrades compared to the first version released in January.
New Insights on Zero 40
Now, MagicX has revealed more information about the Zero 40 through a YouTube video lasting almost 20 minutes and an early product listing. This video, which is embedded below, showcases 30 classic vertical arcade games, including the well-known 1942. This makes the Zero 40 appear to be a good fit for TATE mode, allowing players to enjoy games without needing to flip the device, unlike many other retro gaming handhelds.
Specifications and Features
MagicX has confirmed that the Zero 40 has a vertical display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels and a diagonal size of 4 inches. The dimensions of the Zero 40 are 136 x 105 x 17 mm, and it weighs 182 grams. It also comes with a 4,300 mAh battery, which the company claims can last up to 7 hours on a single charge. Additional specs include 2 GB of DDR4 RAM and an Allwinner A133P chipset, similar to what is found in competitors like the TrimUI Brick, currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon.
Launch Plans
The Zero 40 will operate on Android and will feature Bluetooth 4.2 along with support for 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. According to the technical specifications shared below, MagicX intends to release the Zero 40 in Black, White, and Blue Transparent colors, though only the White version is shown on their website at this time. The launch price is expected to be around $75, but it is still uncertain when exactly it will become available.
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Tags: handheld gaming, MagicX, Zero 40
May 18, 2025
A1X: Handheld with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 Competes with ROG Ally
Key Takeaways
1. The Aokzoe A1X launched on Kickstarter on April 17, with official release set for June 17, and pre-orders available now.
2. It features four variants, all equipped with 7,500 MT/s LPDDR5X RAM and an M.2 2280 SSD.
3. The device includes an OCuLink port for high-speed connections to external GPUs, enhancing graphics performance.
4. The 8-inch touchscreen offers a resolution of 1920 x 1200, 10-point multi-touch, and adaptive refresh rates from 60 to 120 Hz.
5. Connectivity options include two USB 4.0 ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, a Micro SD card slot, and a 72.7 Wh battery with 100-watt charging support.
Handheld gaming fans might already know about the Aokzoe A1X, which began its crowdfunding journey on Kickstarter on April 17. The company has now revealed that the official launch will take place on June 17, but eager customers can already place pre-orders straight from the manufacturer’s site. It’s wise for potential buyers to check the shipping terms in advance.
Variants and Specs
The Aokzoe A1X is available in four different variants, each featuring 7,500 MT/s LPDDR5X RAM and an M.2 2280 SSD. The distinctions among the models are noteworthy:
This handheld device includes an OCuLink port that enables connections to external gadgets, particularly GPUs, which can achieve data transfer speeds of up to 64 Gbps. This should significantly enhance the graphics performance of the device. The 8-inch landscape touchscreen offers a resolution of 1920 x 1200, supports 10-point multi-touch, reaches a brightness of 500 nits, and can intelligently adjust its refresh rate between 60 and 120 Hz with the help of VRR technology. Additional features consist of complete sRGB color space coverage, scratch-resistant glass, and DC dimming capabilities.
Connectivity and Battery
In addition to the OCuLink port, the device also boasts two USB 4.0 ports (40 Gbps), one USB 3.2 Gen 2 port (10 Gbps), a Micro SD 4.0 card slot (300 MB/s), and an audio jack. The battery, with a capacity of 72.7 Wh, supports charging at up to 100 watts. More information about the Aokzoe A1X, including its capacitive joysticks and 3-axis gyroscope, is available on the pre-order site.
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Tags: Aokzoe A1X, handheld gaming, Pre-order
May 8, 2025
Anbernic Reveals Key Specs for New Miyoo Flip Rival RG34XX SP
Key Takeaways
1. Anbernic’s RG34XX SP features a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels.
2. The device is powered by the Allwinner H700 quad-core processor and has 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM for improved performance.
3. It includes Bluetooth 4.2 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity options.
4. The RG34XX SP has a 3,300 mAh battery that can last up to 6 hours on a single charge.
5. Anbernic has emphasized the sturdiness of the RG34XX SP’s hinge design, contrasting it with issues faced by the Miyoo Flip.
Anbernic has released more information about the RG34XX SP, just three days after presenting its new alternative to the Miyoo Flip (currently priced at $74.99 on Amazon). At first, Anbernic concentrated on the design of its latest portable device, while also sharing some details such as a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels.
New Specifications Confirmed
The company has now revealed that this 3:2 display will be powered by the Allwinner H700, a quad-core processor that Anbernic has frequently used over the past year. This suggests that the RG34XX SP offers performance similar to the current RG35XX SP. However, the increase from 1 GB to 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM is likely to yield a noticeable performance boost in specific scenarios.
Connectivity and Battery Life
Other features like Bluetooth 4.2 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi remain available, along with a 3,300 mAh battery that Anbernic says can last up to 6 hours on a single charge. It appears that Anbernic has subtly criticized Miyoo, whose clamshell device still faces hinge problems despite a version 2 update. While not overtly stated, Anbernic has taken the unusual approach of highlighting the RG34XX SP’s hinge design and its sturdiness. For complete specifications, take a look at the video linked below.
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Link
Tags: Anbernic, handheld gaming, RG34XX SP
April 9, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 vs ASUS ROG Ally: Handheld Gaming Comparison
Key Takeaways
1. Hybrid Design: The Nintendo Switch 2 features a hybrid design with three modes (handheld, tabletop, TV) and detachable JoyCons for multiplayer gaming.
2. Display: Both the Nintendo Switch 2 and ASUS ROG Ally have 1080p screens with a 120Hz refresh rate, but the Switch 2 has a larger 7.9-inch display compared to the ROG Ally’s 7-inch screen.
3. Performance: The ROG Ally is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, offering robust performance for a wide range of PC games, while the Switch 2 includes a custom Nvidia processor for 4K gaming when docked.
4. Game Library: The ROG Ally provides access to a vast library of PC games, whereas the Switch 2 is known for its exclusive titles like Mario and The Legend of Zelda.
5. Pricing and Availability: The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release on June 5, 2025, at a price of $449.99, while the ROG Ally is already available, with prices ranging from $600 to $700.
The handheld gaming market is becoming more competitive with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. Since the original Switch came out, many new models have appeared, like the ASUS ROG Ally and the Steam Deck. We’ve already compared the Switch 2 to the Steam Deck, so now it’s time to see how Nintendo’s new device measures up against the ROG Ally.
Design and Display Features
A major perk of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its unique hybrid design. It offers flexibility with three different modes: handheld, tabletop, and TV. The JoyCons can be removed, which makes multiplayer gaming more enjoyable. It features a 7.9-inch LCD screen, boasting a 1080p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.
ASUS ROG Ally Overview
In contrast, the ASUS ROG Ally resembles the Steam Deck more as a traditional gaming handheld. It has a 7-inch display surrounded by a conventional controller layout. Unlike the Switch, these controls are not detachable and are designed for solo gameplay. The ROG Ally also features a 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Performance and Game Library
The ROG Ally is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, making it one of the more robust handhelds that can handle a wide range of PC games. This chip includes RDNA 3 graphics, 6GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD. Its 40Wh battery pack runs the device, which weighs in at 608 grams. While battery life was critiqued, newer models like the ROG Ally X have made significant enhancements. The Ally X includes an 80Wh battery, 24GB of RAM, better joysticks, and improved cooling. Being a Windows PC, it provides access to a vast library of games from popular platforms such as Steam.
Nintendo Switch 2 Specifications
Although details about the hardware are scarce, the Nintendo Switch 2 features a custom Nvidia processor that supports 4K gaming when docked for TV play. Docking boosts the console’s performance, but it can still be used in handheld mode thanks to its 5,220mAh battery. Nintendo is famous for its beloved exclusive franchises, including Mario and The Legend of Zelda, offering unique gaming experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled for a release on June 5, 2025, priced at 449.99 US Dollars. In comparison, the ROG Ally comes in various configurations ranging from 600 to 700 US Dollars. However, unlike the Switch 2, it’s already on the market, including the upgraded Ally X model.
Ultimately, the choice between the Nintendo Switch 2 and the ASUS ROG Ally largely hinges on your gaming preferences. If you love Nintendo’s exclusive games and want the versatility of a hybrid console, the Switch 2 is a strong contender. On the other hand, the ROG Ally offers access to an extensive PC game library and includes Windows 11 features as well.
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, handheld gaming, Nintendo Switch 2
April 7, 2025
Sony Nintendo Switch 2 Survey Sparks Interest in New PlayStation Handheld
Key Takeaways
1. Sony’s survey aims to gauge consumer interest in the Nintendo Switch 2 and its pre-order methods, potentially influencing PlayStation’s future handheld development.
2. The survey includes questions on features of the Switch 2 that may attract gamers from PlayStation, highlighting competitive concerns in the handheld market.
3. Scalping issues have prompted Sony to explore strategies similar to Nintendo’s for handling pre-orders and customer prioritization.
4. The gaming handheld market is becoming increasingly competitive, with companies like Microsoft and Asus also venturing into new devices.
5. Although a new PlayStation handheld may be years away, insights from the survey could help Sony avoid past mistakes in console launches.
Competitor analysis forms a crucial part of any sales plan. This is equally true for gaming consoles, and a recent survey by PlayStation has been directed at the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The well-known leaker, eXtas1s, posted a copy of the survey on X. Sony’s inquiry seeks to understand which specifications of the Switch 2 excite consumers and whether they support Nintendo’s pre-order methods. This has led to speculation that the feedback might influence the development of a new handheld device from PlayStation.
Survey Insights
Some of Sony’s survey questions aim to measure the general enthusiasm for Nintendo’s upcoming handheld. Others are geared towards identifying which new features of the Switch 2 could attract gamers away from PlayStation’s competition. Additionally, the survey addresses the conditions for pre-ordering a Nintendo system. Customers need to sign up on Nintendo’s store site, with priority granted to long-time Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. Scalping has posed challenges for console makers, so Sony might be considering a similar strategy for their next release.
Market Competition
The market for gaming handhelds has become more cutthroat. Microsoft has changed direction to focus on being a cross-platform publisher but hasn’t abandoned its hardware roots. Recently, Asus hinted at Project Kennan, a Windows-based handheld that could feature an Xbox user interface. Meanwhile, Sony’s PlayStation Portal is mainly centered on streaming games from the PS5 and utilizing cloud gaming. Some gamers speculate that the survey reinforces the rumors regarding a new PlayStation handheld device.
If Sony follows its previous launch patterns, the PS6 could potentially debut by 2027. Nevertheless, most experts think this console won’t be portable. However, in November 2024, Bloomberg disclosed that Sony was working on a handheld device concurrently. This new machine aims to deliver a gaming experience similar to the PS5 but in a more compact size.
Future Prospects
While any new PlayStation handheld may still be years away, Nintendo and Microsoft might hold an edge by that time. The recent survey regarding the Switch 2, however, might aid Sony in steering clear of the mistakes made during previous console rollouts.
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Tags: handheld gaming, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation
April 2, 2025
HyperMegaTech Evercade: Retro Handheld with Neo Geo Games
Key Takeaways
1. The Super Pocket NeoGeo comes with 14 officially licensed games, including popular titles like Metal Slug X and Fatal Fury Special.
2. The device supports Evercade cartridges, allowing access to over 600 additional games through collectible cartridges.
3. It features a simple design with a directional pad, four action buttons, and four shoulder buttons, but no analog sticks.
4. The screen is 2.8 inches with IPS technology and a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels, and it includes a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack.
5. The MVS version is limited to 3,000 units and priced at €80, while the standard edition is set at €60 and not yet available for pre-order.
The Super Pocket NeoGeo is an exciting new handheld gaming device. It’s designed specifically for Neo Geo fans and comes loaded with 14 games right out of the box, such as Metal Slug X, Fatal Fury Special, and Samurai Showdown. While this might seem like a limited selection compared to other handhelds that use SD cards for a wider range of titles, there’s more to it.
Officially Licensed Titles
The key difference is that the games included with the Super Pocket Neo Geo are officially licensed, meaning they comply with copyright laws. This is not always the case with other handheld gaming systems. Additionally, players can enjoy even more games since this device works with Evercade cartridges. There are over 60 cartridges available, offering access to more than 600 games, each priced at approximately $20. These cartridges can also be viewed as collectible items for enthusiasts.
Simple Design Features
In terms of design, the Super Pocket Neo Geo keeps it pretty basic. It lacks analog sticks but features a directional pad, four action buttons, and four shoulder buttons. The screen is a modest 2.8 inches and uses IPS technology with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels. It includes a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack, and the device has a battery life exceeding four hours, with quick charging capabilities. The MVS version is limited to just 3,000 units and is available for pre-order at €80, with shipments expected to start in late June. Meanwhile, the standard edition is set at €60 but isn’t available for pre-order just yet.
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Tags: handheld gaming, Neo Geo games, Super Pocket NeoGeo
March 25, 2025
OneXplayer X1 Pro: Powerful Gaming Like Nintendo Switch
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch is starting to show its age compared to newer handheld gaming devices with better graphics.
2. The OneXplayer X1 Pro combines the adaptability of the Switch with the power of a high-performance PC, featuring a robust AMD Ryzen processor.
3. The X1 Pro offers greater flexibility, allowing access to a wide range of PC games and multitasking capabilities beyond gaming.
4. Its innovative modular design includes detachable controllers and optional accessories, making it a versatile 3-in-1 device (tablet, laptop, gaming handheld).
5. Overall, the OneXplayer X1 Pro is positioned as a more powerful and feature-rich alternative to the Nintendo Switch for gamers and creatives.
The Nintendo Switch changed the game for portable consoles when it hit the market eight years ago. Now, however, it’s beginning to show its age, especially when stacked against today’s handheld gaming options. While newer handhelds might lack the versatility of Nintendo’s device, they definitely provide much better graphical quality for gaming experiences.
The OneXplayer X1 Pro Combines Power and Flexibility
Imagine merging the adaptability of the Switch with the strength of a high-performance PC. The newly reviewed OneXplayer X1 Pro accomplishes just that. With its unique modular build, functioning both as a handheld console and a complete laptop, alongside the robust AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and AMD Radeon 890M iGPU, it offers stunning visuals on its sharp 2.5K display. Plus, with a docking station, you can easily connect the X1 Pro to your TV.
A Comparison to the Nintendo Switch
When compared to the Nintendo Switch, the OneXplayer X1 Pro provides far greater flexibility and power. The Switch mainly focuses on console games, while the X1 Pro gives users access to a vast array of PC titles due to Windows 11 compatibility. Even resource-heavy games like Cyberpunk 2077 run seamlessly on the X1 Pro. Overall, this device serves as a Windows gaming handheld that can also handle office tasks, browsing, and streaming effortlessly.
Innovative Modular Design
The modular aspect of the X1 Pro draws inspiration from the Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Cons, yet it takes it a step beyond. The detachable controllers allow it to function as a complete handheld, while optional accessories like the keyboard and kickstand enable laptop usage. This makes the X1 Pro the ultimate 3-in-1 gadget for both gamers and creatives—a tablet, laptop, and gaming handheld rolled into one. In conclusion, the OneXplayer X1 Pro is not just a more powerful version of the Nintendo Switch; its remarkable performance, versatile design, and extensive features truly make it an extraordinary gaming machine for those on the move—a Nintendo Switch on steroids.
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Tags: handheld gaming, Nintendo Switch, OneXPlayer X1 Pro
March 23, 2025
Ayaneo AM01S Upgrade: Boosted with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370
Key Takeaways
1. Ayaneo has launched various devices in the x86 and Android handheld categories, with some models like Ayaneo 3 and Ayaneo Pocket S currently available.
2. The AM01S, announced in May 2024, has been upgraded to include the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, featuring AMD’s latest architectures.
3. The AM01S now has 12 Zen 5 CPU cores, providing a significant performance boost over earlier models, particularly in GPU tasks.
4. The updated mini-PC features a Radeon 890M iGPU with 16 Compute Units, potentially making it 20% faster in GPU-intensive tasks.
5. The AM01S maintains its original design with a 4-inch landscape display, but pricing and availability details are still unknown.
Ayaneo has launched several devices over the past year, many of which fall into their x86 or Android handheld categories. While some models, like the flagship Ayaneo 3 and Ayaneo Pocket S, are currently available, others are still in the works, waiting for a full launch.
Updates on the AM01S
A prime example of a device still in development is the AM01S, which Ayaneo revealed in May 2024 featuring AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS and Ryzen 9 8945HS APUs. These APUs utilize AMD’s RDNA 3 and Zen 4 architectures, but AMD has since upgraded to RDNA 3.5 and Zen 5. To keep pace, Ayaneo has refreshed the AM01S to include the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, which is also seen in contemporary gaming handhelds like the OneXFly F1 Pro, currently priced at $1,439 on Amazon.
Performance Boost
With this upgrade, the AM01S now boasts 12 Zen 5 CPU cores, offering a significant performance boost compared to the Ryzen 7 8845HS and Ryzen 9 8945HS. Additionally, the updated mini-PC features a Radeon 890M iGPU with 16 Compute Units (CUs). This enhancement suggests that the AM01S could be about 20% faster in GPU-intensive tasks than if it had been released with the Ryzen 9 8945HS APU.
Design Consistency
Nonetheless, not much else has changed for the AM01S since its initial announcement nearly a year ago. Ayaneo still includes a 4-inch display meant to function as a secondary monitor, which they now describe as a native landscape panel. The AM01S also keeps the classic Macintosh design style that Ayaneo has used in its other mini-PCs. At this point, pricing and availability details remain unclear.
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Tags: AYANEO AM01S, handheld gaming, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370
March 20, 2025
Mecha Comet Handheld Gaming Device Upgraded Before Launch
Key Takeaways
1. The Mecha Comet handheld device will launch with upgraded specifications, including a new NXP i.MX8M Plus chipset and increased memory from 3GB to 8GB.
2. The display has been improved to a 3.92-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1,080 x 1,240 pixels, replacing the initially planned LCD.
3. Enhanced features include a PCIe 3.0 M.2 slot for better storage performance and USB port support for video output, with a battery capacity of 4,000 mAh.
4. The price has increased by at least 15%, likely costing around $200 instead of the previously mentioned $160.
5. Deliveries are expected in the fourth quarter of 2025, with the device designed to support various modules and a unique Debian-based Linux operating system.
The saying “better late than never” seems to fit the Mecha Comet perfectly. We have talked about this modular handheld before, and now there are fresh plans for it, which come with a mix of good and not-so-good news. The company behind it has revealed that the device will launch with much better specifications than before.
Upgraded Components
This upgrade affects nearly all crucial parts, starting with the new NXP i.MX8M Plus chipset. The memory is being boosted to 8GB, a nice jump from the previous 3GB. On the display side, the Mecha Comet will feature a sharper and slightly larger 3.92-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1,080 x 1,240 pixels. Initially, the handheld was meant to come with an LCD display.
Enhanced Features
The Comet’s improved specs also include a PCIe 3.0 M.2 slot (2230/2242/3042), promising enhanced storage performance. It even supports M.2 modules with cellular connectivity. Additionally, the USB port on the handheld can now function for video output, while the battery capacity is going up to 4,000 mAh, even with a slimmer thickness of 0.55 inches.
Price Changes and Availability
However, these upgrades come with a price hike of at least 15%, meaning the gaming system will probably cost around $200, rather than the $160 that was mentioned during the crowdfunding phase. Deliveries are not anticipated until the fourth quarter of 2025. Lastly, the Mecha Comet is still being designed to work with various modules like a keyboard or gamepad. A unique Debian-based Linux distribution can also be utilized as the operating system.
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Link
Tags: handheld gaming, Mecha Comet, NXP i.MX8M Plus