Tag: handheld gaming

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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Tags: handheld gaming, Mecha Comet, NXP i.MX8M Plus
March 18, 2025
AYANEO Pocket S2: New Android Gaming Handheld Debuts at GDC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. The AYANEO Pocket S2 is the first handheld device to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 gaming platform, offering a 30% CPU boost and 28% GPU enhancement.
2. It includes a 6.3-inch 1440P IPS screen and supports Wi-Fi 7 for low latency during cloud gaming.
3. The device has the largest battery in its category, with fast charging and a robust cooling system featuring a large heatsink and active fan.
4. Its design features a CNC-machined aluminum body, ergonomic shape, Hall-effect joysticks, and dual X-axis motors for improved accuracy and haptic feedback.
5. AYANEO’s AYASpace and AYAHome software provide users with customization options for performance settings, button remapping, and game library management.
AYANEO has unveiled its latest flagship handheld device, the Pocket S2, at the Game Developers Conference. This launch also marks the worldwide debut of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 gaming platform, along with the AYANEO Gaming Pad tablet.
Features of the AYANEO Pocket S2
The Pocket S2 is the first handheld to utilize the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, which is expected to deliver a notable 30% boost in CPU and a 28% enhancement in GPU performance. This advanced chip allows for hardware-accelerated ray tracing and Snapdragon Game Super Resolution. The device features a 6.3-inch 1440P IPS screen, offering clear and colorful visuals. It also supports Wi-Fi 7 for minimal latency during cloud gaming sessions.
Battery and Cooling System
AYANEO claims that the Pocket S2 boasts the largest battery within its segment, along with rapid charging capabilities. A newly designed cooling system that includes a sizable heatsink and an active fan works to maintain reliable performance even during intense gaming sessions.
Design and Control Features
The Pocket S2 showcases AYANEO’s distinctive CNC-machined aluminum body and an ergonomic curved shape. It comes equipped with enhanced Hall-effect joysticks and Hall linear triggers for better accuracy. Additionally, dual X-axis motors provide nuanced haptic feedback for a more immersive experience.
The device is bundled with AYANEO’s AYASpace and AYAHome software, which allows users to customize performance settings, remap buttons, and manage their game library efficiently. Pricing and release details are still pending.
Source:
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Tags: Ayaneo Pocket S2, handheld gaming, Snapdragon G3 Gen 3
March 11, 2025
Powkiddy V90 vs Anbernic RG35XX SP & Miyoo Flip: Who’s Best?
Key Takeaways
1. Powkiddy has started taking pre-orders for the V20, launched about six weeks after the X35H’s global release.
2. A new version of the V90, possibly called V90 V2 or V90 Refresh, is in development to celebrate its fifth anniversary.
3. The design and colors of the new V90 are not finalized and are still a work in progress.
4. Changes between the new V90 and the original include altered button and speaker configurations and thinner bezels.
5. The new V90 may feature a larger 3.5-inch display and could use the Rockchip RK3566 chipset, though specifications are not yet confirmed.
Retro Handhelds has recently revealed another upcoming gaming handheld from Powkiddy. Just to recap, the company started taking pre-orders for the V20 last month. Similar to what Anbernic did last year, the V20 was launched about six weeks after Powkiddy made the X35H available worldwide (currently priced at $86.99 on Amazon).
New V90 Version on the Horizon
According to Retro Handhelds, there’s also a new version of the V90 being planned. At the moment, it’s referred to as the V90 V2, V90 2.0, or simply the “V90 Refresh.” However, since the original V90 is nearing its fifth anniversary, it’s likely that Powkiddy will opt for a completely different name instead of just calling it the V90 Refresh.
Design and Features Still in Progress
Regardless, Jdewitz emphasizes that the design and colors showcased ‘are not final’. Therefore, it’s best to view these images as they are currently described, ‘very much work in progress’. Still, they provide some hints on how Powkiddy’s upcoming clamshell handheld may vary from the original V90.
For example, Powkiddy has altered the button and speaker configuration between the two generations. Additionally, the new V90 features thinner plastic bezels, suggesting a shift from a 3.0-inch display to a 3.5-inch one, aligning it with Anbernic’s RG35XX SP and Miyoo Flip. Sadly, further specifications remain unclear for now, but it appears that Powkiddy might revert to the Rockchip RK3566 for the chipset in this device.
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Tags: handheld gaming, Powkiddy V20, Powkiddy V90
March 5, 2025
Samsung Unveils Foldable Handheld Gaming Consoles at MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Innovative Design: The Flex Gaming concept features a 7.2-inch foldable OLED screen that allows for easy portability, similar to a Galaxy Z Flip smartphone.
2. User-Friendly Features: It includes joysticks, D-pads, a home button, and a USB Type-C port, with a unique design that protects the joysticks when folded.
3. Enhanced Visual Experience: Although specific details on resolution and refresh rate are not disclosed, the display quality is expected to match that of Samsung’s premium foldable smartphones.
4. Significant Upgrades: The current model shows major improvements over the previous version presented at CES 2023, focusing on compactness and portability for gaming.
5. Samsung’s Innovative Shift: This move reflects Samsung’s commitment to exploring new markets and addressing real-world needs in the gaming industry.
At MWC 2025, Samsung introduced its latest creation: the Flex Gaming concept. This handheld gaming device boasts a 7.2-inch foldable OLED screen and aims to make a mark in the gaming world as a portable console that’s easy to carry around.
A New Beginning for Handheld Gaming
Right now, gaming consoles like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch are often too bulky, making them hard to transport. Samsung’s Flex Gaming concept seeks to solve this problem by featuring a hinge and a foldable display, allowing it to fold akin to a Galaxy Z Flip smartphone.
Unique Features and Design
The Flex Gaming console is equipped with joysticks and D-pads on either side of the screen, featuring a clever cavity design that neatly holds the joysticks when the device is folded. Additionally, it includes a home button, a button labeled with an ‘N’, as well as a USB Type-C port located at the bottom. The current prototype showcases a bright lime green-yellow hue that gives the device a lively and modern feel.
Samsung has yet to disclose specifics regarding resolution, refresh rate, or brightness, but the foldable screen is anticipated to be on par with the displays found in Samsung’s foldable smartphones. If this is the case, it will provide gamers with a truly engaging visual experience.
Major Improvements Over Previous Models
This year’s Flex Gaming concept represents a notable advancement from the version presented at CES 2023, which had a flip-open display instead of a foldable one. The updated design is more functional and meets the rising need for compact, easily portable gaming gadgets.
It’s quite intriguing to see Samsung dedicating time and resources to venture into areas outside its usual business while addressing real-life challenges.
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Tags: Flex Gaming, handheld gaming, Samsung
February 20, 2025
Retroid Pocket Flip 2: OLED Display and Release Date Leaked
Key Takeaways
1. Retroid has officially introduced the Pocket Flip 2 with a new video showcasing its design and features.
2. The device includes volume buttons, a 3.5 mm audio jack, microSD card reader, USB Type-C port, and a lanyard hole, with no ports on the left side.
3. The Pocket Flip 2 features Hall effect triggers and joysticks with an ‘anti-slip’ texture, along with an OLED display that can rotate up to 180 degrees.
4. Pre-orders for the Pocket Flip 2 may start in March, although an official release date has not yet been announced.
5. Retroid is expected to share more details about the Pocket Flip 2 throughout February, following their usual pattern with past launches.
A few days ago, Retroid officially introduced the Pocket Flip 2. At first, the company only shared one image that also hinted at another unknown console. Now, they’ve released a brief video on social media, which is included below.
More Details Emerge
The teaser from last week showed the Pocket Flip 2 from the front, but the new 31-second clip gives a look at the device from different angles. This allows viewers to see a pair of volume buttons located on the right side. Additionally, Retroid has placed the 3.5 mm audio jack, microSD card reader, and USB Type-C port on the front edge of the device. The Pocket Flip 2 also features a lanyard hole, but interestingly, there are no ports on the left side.
Features and Specifications
Retroid has announced that the Pocket Flip 2 will include Hall effect triggers and joysticks, which have an ‘anti-slip’ texture, as they claim. This new handheld continues the trend set by the Pocket 5 and Pocket Mini, boasting an OLED display. As shown in the video below, the display can rotate up to 180 degrees within its hinge, a feature also found in other clamshell devices, like the Anbernic RG35XX SP (currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon).
Upcoming Release Information
While Retroid hasn’t officially announced a release date yet, some leaks indicate that pre-orders for the Pocket Flip 2 could start in March. Although no exact date has been given, the same source had accurately predicted that more details would come out on February 19. Based on past launches, it seems that Retroid will gradually share more information throughout the month about the Pocket Flip 2 and their upcoming vertical gaming handheld.
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Tags: handheld gaming, OLED display, Retroid Pocket Flip 2