Tag: handheld gaming

  • Ayaneo Next II Unveiled as Top Windows Gaming Handheld

    Ayaneo Next II Unveiled as Top Windows Gaming Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ayaneo Next II has been redesigned with AMD Ryzen 7000 series APUs and a dedicated graphics solution.
    2. Ergonomic improvements include a newly positioned d-pad, round trackpads, added shoulder buttons, and customizable buttons.
    3. The device features TMR joysticks, Hall effect triggers, and an 8-way floating d-pad, with a screen size of at least 8 inches.
    4. No release date or pricing information has been provided for the Next II, but it may offer Ryzen AI Max 385 and Ryzen AI Max+ 395 variants.
    5. The Next II is positioned as a successor to the Kun handheld, following its initial showcase before the introduction of the 8.4-inch device.

    The Ayaneo Next II has seen another makeover since it first hit the scene more than three and a half years ago. It was first hinted at with AMD Ryzen 6000 and Intel Alder Lake chips, but Ayaneo revamped the device in early 2023 to include Ryzen 7000 series APUs and a dedicated graphics solution. After being put on hold for a while, the Next II made a comeback during the summer, this time featuring AMD’s latest and more robust Strix Halo architecture while retaining its original look.

    Redesigned Features

    Now, the Next II has returned with its second significant redesign. This updated version is much closer to what was shown in 2023, bringing several ergonomic improvements. These include a newly positioned d-pad, round trackpads, and added shoulder buttons. In addition, the back of the handheld now has adjustable trigger switches and customizable buttons, similar to Lenovo’s recent Legion Go S, which is currently priced at $694 on Amazon.

    Specs and Shipping Details

    Ayaneo has confirmed that the Next II will come equipped with TMR joysticks, Hall effect triggers, and an 8-way floating d-pad. It also boasts what the company refers to as a “customized top-tier screen.” Although specific display details haven’t been disclosed yet, Ayaneo previously stated that the screen would measure at least 8 inches. This suggests that the Next II serves as a natural successor to the Kun, even if it was showcased before Ayaneo introduced its 8.4-inch handheld.

    Availability and Pricing

    Regrettably, Ayaneo has not provided any information regarding the release date for the Next II. The company keeps insisting that the handheld is on its way, but there’s still no pricing information available. If we take the GPD Win 5 or OneXPlayer OneXFly Apex as reference points, it’s likely that Ayaneo will offer the Next II in Ryzen AI Max 385 and Ryzen AI Max+ 395 variants, with options for RAM ranging between 32 GB and 128 GB.

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  • Arduboy FX-C Handheld: OLED, 300 Games, Multiplayer Fun

    Arduboy FX-C Handheld: OLED, 300 Games, Multiplayer Fun

    Key Takeaways

    1. USB-C Upgrade: The Arduboy FX-C features a modern USB-C port for easier charging and allows for multiplayer gameplay with two devices connected.

    2. Expanded Game Library: The new handheld includes 300 games, up from 200, with options to download additional games online.

    3. Compact Technical Specs: It has a 1-bit OLED display (128 x 64 pixels), runs on an ATmega32u4 microcontroller, and has 2.5KB of RAM and 16MB of storage.

    4. Pricing and Limited Availability: The Arduboy FX-C is priced at $99, with a two-pack bundle available for $178, limited to 500 and 100 sets respectively.

    5. Shipping Information: Shipping starts in December, with additional charges for European orders and potential extra costs for import or customs fees.

    While the Arduboy FX had an older micro-USB port, the new Arduboy FX-C finally upgrades to the more modern USB-C standard. This change not only makes charging easier but also allows two handhelds to connect for multiplayer gameplay sessions.

    Expanded Game Library

    The new handheld comes with 300 games, an increase from the 200 games that was included with its predecessor. Users can also download additional games for the Arduino-based device from the internet. The fundamental design remains the same; the Arduboy FX-C continues to use a single circuit board and a plastic body with a clear front, allowing players to view the internal components. The small 180mAh battery is anticipated to give around eight hours of gameplay due to the simple hardware.

    Technical Specs

    The Arduboy FX-C features a compact black-and-white display that is based on a 1-bit OLED panel with a resolution of 128 x 64 pixels, and it runs on an ATmega32u4 Arduino microcontroller, which is paired with 2.5KB of RAM and 16MB of storage. The company mentions that multiplayer functionality doesn’t work with just any USB-C cable. If you happen to misplace the included cable, you’ll need to buy an expensive Thunderbolt 3 cable.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can get the Arduboy FX-C handheld on the company’s website for $99, while a bundle that includes two handhelds is priced at $178. The handheld is limited to just 500 pieces, and the two-pack is restricted to 100 sets. There is a color-matched unlimited version planned for release later on. Shipping is expected to start in December. The company also ships to Europe, but that comes with an extra $15 charge, and the prices listed do not cover any import or customs fees.

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    Arduboy FX-C Handheld: OLED, 300 Games, Multiplayer Fun

     

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  • Retroid Launches Polls for Pocket 6 Redesign After Backlash

    Retroid Launches Polls for Pocket 6 Redesign After Backlash

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retroid has launched two new handheld devices: the Retroid Pocket G2 (an upgrade of Pocket 5) and the entirely new Retroid Pocket 6.
    2. Many fans are unhappy with the design of the Retroid Pocket 6, particularly the symmetrical thumbstick placement and button location.
    3. Retroid is conducting polls to gather fan feedback on design preferences, including a choice between the original and a new design.
    4. The updated design features relocated buttons and speakers, with M1 and M2 buttons moved to the back, while the overall screen size remains unchanged.
    5. Poll results show that approximately 70% prefer the new design and 60% favor an asymmetrical thumbstick layout; it’s unclear if a revised Pocket 6 will be released based on these results.

    Retroid has just revealed two new handheld gaming devices — the Retroid Pocket G2 and the Retroid Pocket 6. The Pocket G2 is essentially an upgraded version of the Retroid Pocket 5, while the Pocket 6 is completely new with a different look. However, many fans of the brand are not pleased with how the Retroid Pocket 6 looks.

    Design Concerns

    A lot of the feedback has been about the thumbstick placement, which is symmetrical like the Pocket 5 and Pocket G2. There have also been issues raised about the buttons located below the screen. Retroid has definitely noticed these comments, and in a rather unusual move, the company is conducting a poll to let fans pick between the original design and a new one.

    Revised Design Features

    The image of the updated design indicates that it lacks the user-programmable buttons and speakers right beneath the display. According to Retroid, the M1 and M2 buttons are now located on the back (not seen in the image), and the Home and Back buttons have been moved next to the left and right speakers, respectively. The speakers have been shifted beneath the thumbsticks, now with smaller openings, similar to the Retroid Pocket 5 (which you can find on Amazon for $259). Retroid claims that the screen size has not changed.

    Poll Results

    In another poll, Retroid asks fans if they like the symmetrical thumbsticks with the D-Pad on top or if they prefer an asymmetrical layout where the left thumbstick is above the D-Pad, similar to the AYN Odin 3.

    As of now, both polls have garnered over 7,000 votes, with nearly 70% leaning towards the new design and 60% favoring the left thumbstick being placed above the D-Pad.

    The next big question is whether Retroid will launch a revised version of the Retroid Pocket 6 based on the poll results. If that’s the case, it raises more questions — will the new design be available alongside the existing one, or will it take over the current design since some users are happy with it? If Retroid decides to go with the new design and replace the old one, it might lead to delays for the Pocket 6.

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  • Retroid Pocket G2 Release: Upgraded Processor from Pocket 5

    Retroid Pocket G2 Release: Upgraded Processor from Pocket 5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Version: The Retroid Pocket G2 is an upgraded model of the Retroid Pocket 5, sharing similar design features.

    2. Color Options: The G2 comes in five colors, including Yellow and Turquoise, and is compatible with accessories from the Pocket 5.

    3. Internal Upgrades: It features a 5.5-inch 1080p AMOLED screen, Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage.

    4. Battery and Connectivity: The device includes a 5,000mAh battery with 27W charging, USB-C with DisplayPort support, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.4.

    5. Pricing and Launch: The G2 is priced at $219, but can be purchased for $199 during the first two weeks after launch.

    Along with the Retroid Pocket 6, the company has also rolled out another handheld device named the Pocket G2. This new gadget can be seen as an enhanced version of the Retroid Pocket 5, as both handhelds sport many similar features, including their design.

    Naming Confusion

    It could easily have been termed the Pocket 5s, Pocket 5 Plus, or even Pocket 5 Pro, especially since there isn’t any Retroid Pocket G1. Still, the likeness between these two handhelds does not diminish the appeal of the new model.

    Color Options and Compatibility

    The Retroid Pocket G2 comes in five different colors, including Yellow and Turquoise, which are quite similar to those of the Nintendo Switch Lite (currently priced at $199 on Amazon). The other three colors — 16Bit, Black, and GC — are taken from the Retroid Pocket 5. Since it has the same shell as the Pocket 5, it can use the same accessories as that model.

    Internal Upgrades

    While the exterior remains unchanged, the real upgrades are found within. The Retroid Pocket G2 features a 5.5-inch 1080p AMOLED screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. Unlike the Pocket 5, which had the Snapdragon 865, this new model uses the more advanced Snapdragon G2 Gen 2. This processor is combined with 8GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage.

    Battery Life and Connectivity

    This Android handheld comes with Android 15, a 5,000mAh battery, and supports 27W wired charging. It includes a USB-C port that has DisplayPort support for 1080p output and also features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4. Similar to the Pocket 5, it has Analog L2 and R2 buttons, along with Hall Effect joysticks that glow with RGB lights.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Retroid Pocket G2 is priced at $219, but during the first two weeks of its launch, customers can get it for $199, which aligns with the new price of the Retroid 5 after its permanent price reduction. Retroid has yet to announce when the handheld will actually be available for buying.

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  • Retroid Pocket 6: New Design, Upgraded Chip, Bigger Battery $229

    Retroid Pocket 6: New Design, Upgraded Chip, Bigger Battery $229

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retroid announced a permanent price drop for some devices, generating excitement for new product launches.
    2. The Retroid Pocket 6 features design improvements, including rounder edges and a new button layout, available in six colors.
    3. Performance enhancements include a 5.5-inch AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor.
    4. The device offers options for 8GB or 12GB RAM, with storage capacities of 128GB and 256GB, and a larger 6,000mAh battery with fast charging.
    5. Pricing starts at $229 for the base model, with pre-order discounts available, but the start date for pre-orders has not been announced.

    When Retroid made an announcement about a permanent price drop for some of its handheld devices, like the Retroid Pocket 5, earlier this month, many started to wonder if they were going to unveil new products. Those rumors were confirmed with the reveal of a launch event set for October 27. That day has come, and Retroid has introduced not just one, but two new handheld devices, one of which is the Retroid Pocket 6.

    Design Changes

    The Retroid Pocket 6 comes out just a little more than a year after the Retroid Pocket 5 was launched, and it brings a bunch of improvements. But before going into the tech specs, it’s important to mention some design tweaks. Offered in six vibrant colors, the Retroid Pocket 6 features rounder edges than its predecessor, resembling the AYN Odin 2 Mini in some ways.

    Another significant alteration is the array of buttons located under the screen, with speakers on both sides. It includes a fresh D-Pad, and like the ABXY buttons, it is encircled. The placement of the thumbsticks, however, remains symmetrical, which has led to mixed feelings among users—some are disappointed that Retroid chose to keep this layout, while others appreciate the consistency in the left joystick’s position.

    Performance Specifications

    The Retroid Pocket 6 sports a 5.5-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, similar to the Retroid Pocket 5. Nevertheless, the new model boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, a step up from the previous 60Hz. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which is a notable improvement over the Pocket 5’s Snapdragon 865. There are options for 8GB RAM and 12GB RAM (LPDDR5x), with storage capacities of 128GB and 256GB of UFS 3.1, respectively.

    Beneath its exterior, the device houses a larger 6,000mAh battery that supports 27W fast charging via wired connection. The Retroid Pocket 6 is equipped with a USB 3.1 Type-C port that supports DisplayPort (4K at 60fps). Additionally, it includes an audio jack, a MicroSD card slot, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.3. Like its predecessor, which is available on Amazon for $259, it operates on Android 13 right out of the box.

    Pricing and Pre-orders

    The base model of the Retroid Pocket 6, equipped with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, is priced at $229, while the 12GB RAM with 256GB storage version will retail for $279. However, those who pre-order will have the chance to snag the base model for just $209 and the higher-spec version for $259. Unfortunately, Retroid has yet to announce when the pre-order period will start for this new Android-powered handheld.

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  • Miyoo Mini Flip: New Portable Gaming Handheld with GBA SP Design

    Miyoo Mini Flip: New Portable Gaming Handheld with GBA SP Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Miyoo Mini Flip is a smaller and heavier clamshell gaming handheld compared to other devices, measuring about 65 mm wide and weighing 120 g.
    2. It features a 2.8-inch display with a resolution of 750 x 560 pixels and supports 2x or 3x integer scaling for classic games.
    3. The device is powered by an ARM Cortex-A7 dual-core processor running at 1.2 GHz, capable of emulating games from systems like Nintendo DS and PlayStation.
    4. The hinge mechanism has been improved for better durability and functionality, addressing issues from previous models.
    5. The Mini Flip is priced at $52.99 initially, including a 64 GB microSD card, with plans to increase the price to $59.99 in the future.

    Miyoo has finally launched its second clamshell gaming handheld, more than five months after hints of the device appeared online. The Miyoo Mini Flip is notably smaller compared to other recent clamshell retro gaming devices, including Miyoo’s own Flip, Powkiddy’s V90S, and Anbernic’s RG34XX SP and RG35XX SP, which is currently priced at $69.99 on Amazon.

    Size and Weight

    The Mini Flip measures roughly the same width as the Mini V4, coming in at about 65 mm. However, it is more than 10% heavier than the Mini V4, weighing in at 120 g, which is partly due to its 2,500 mAh battery. Despite this, it features an identical 2.8-inch display with a relatively high resolution of 750 x 560 pixels.

    Performance Specs

    In terms of performance, Miyoo has opted for the same ARM Cortex-A7 dual-core processor that runs at 1.2 GHz. This chipset is capable enough to emulate games from systems like Nintendo DS and PlayStation. Furthermore, the display offers 2x or 3x integer scaling for classic games from SNES and Sega Genesis (Mega Drive), among others. Keeping the same chipset as the Mini V4 also means that the Mini Flip comes with Onion OS support right out of the box.

    Improved Hinge Mechanism

    Miyoo has reportedly revamped the hinge mechanism for the Mini Flip. This was a recurring problem in both versions of the Miyoo Flip. The new hinge is said to operate as smoothly as those found in Anbernic’s models. Still, we recommend holding off on forming a final opinion until more unbiased reviews come in.

    The Miyoo Mini Flip is available starting today in various colors, with an initial price of $52.99, excluding shipping and taxes. This price includes a 64 GB microSD card. Eventually, Miyoo plans to increase the base price of the Mini Flip to $59.99. For additional information, check out Miyoo’s official website.

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  • GameMT EX8 Handheld: 3:2 Aspect Ratio & Helio G99 Processor Teaser

    GameMT EX8 Handheld: 3:2 Aspect Ratio & Helio G99 Processor Teaser

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GameMT EX8 features a 3:2 aspect ratio and symmetrical thumbsticks with RGB ring lights.
    2. It will be available in two color options: black with red accents and white with purple accents.
    3. The device has a 4.88-inch 1080 × 1620 display, offering sharper visuals than the Ayaneo Pocket Micro.
    4. It is powered by a Helio G99 processor, with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, plus a microSD card slot for expansion.
    5. The EX8 includes a 5,000mAh battery, USB-C charging, a cooling fan, and bottom-firing speakers, with a release date yet to be announced.

    Despite the many retro handhelds on the market, Chinese companies are still pushing forward. GameMT, the brand that brought us the E5 Ultra along with the E6 Max and E6 Plus, has just teased a new device.

    Introducing the GameMT EX8

    This new handheld, named the GameMT EX8, will feature a 3:2 aspect ratio similar to the Powkiddy RGB50. The teaser showcases the EX8 with symmetrical thumbsticks, each equipped with RGB ring lights. It looks to be quite thick, even with in-line shoulder buttons.

    Color Options and Design

    The GameMT EX8 will come in two color options: black and white. The black model features black thumbsticks and shoulder buttons, while the D-pad and ABXY buttons pop in red. Conversely, the white version boasts purple D-pad and ABXY buttons, with thumbsticks and the other buttons remaining white.

    Specifications Breakdown

    In terms of specifications, the GameMT EX8 packs a 4.88-inch 1080 × 1620 display with a 3:2 aspect ratio. This screen is not only larger than the Ayaneo Pocket Micro’s 3.5-inch 960 × 640 display (currently priced at $224.95 on Amazon), but also offers sharper visuals.

    Although GameMT is sticking with the Helio G99 processor, it is coupled with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The teaser highlights a microSD card slot at the bottom for extra storage. Additionally, it features a cooling fan and bottom-firing speakers. The GameMT EX8 is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery and charges through a USB-C port located at the bottom.

    There’s no specific announcement date for the GameMT EX8 yet, but the teaser hints that it will be released soon.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini: Compact Gaming Handheld with Emulation Features

    Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini: Compact Gaming Handheld with Emulation Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo has launched the Pocket Air Mini on Indiegogo, featuring a 4.2-inch IPS display and weighing 269 grams.
    2. The device uses a MediaTek Helio G90T SoC with a cooling system, Hall effect joysticks, and a 4,500 mAh battery with 18 W charging.
    3. Performance varies by RAM, with the 2 GB version struggling with some emulation, while the 3 GB version handles more demanding games.
    4. The Pocket Air Mini is priced at $69.99 for the 2 GB/32 GB model and $79.99 for the 3 GB/64 GB model, with prices expected to rise.
    5. Shipping for backed units is anticipated by the end of November 2023.

    Ayaneo has officially introduced the Pocket Air Mini on Indiegogo, following their earlier announcement about its launch on the crowdfunding site this week. This new device comes shortly after the release of the Anbernic RG476H (currently priced at $189.99 on Amazon) and the Mangmi Air X. The Pocket Air Mini features a 4.2-inch IPS display and weighs 269 grams, with a thickness of 18.7 mm.

    Specifications and Design

    With dimensions of 82.5 mm in width and 165.9 mm in height, the Pocket Air Mini incorporates an active cooling system to prevent the MediaTek Helio G90T SoC and the integrated Mali-G76 MP4 GPU from overheating during gaming sessions. Additionally, Ayaneo has included Hall effect joysticks and triggers, though there is no gyroscope for motion control. The device is also equipped with a 4,500 mAh battery that supports 18 W wired charging.

    Performance Insights

    TechDweeb, a YouTuber, mentions that the basic version with 2 GB of RAM might struggle to emulate Nintendo 3DS or Switch titles. However, it can handle many GameCube and PlayStation 2 games on its 1,280 x 960-pixel display with a brightness of 500 nits. Impressively, PSP games perform well at 2x integer scaling, while PlayStation, Dreamcast, and Nintendo 64 games can run at even higher scaling settings.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini can be backed on Indiegogo for approximately $69.99 for the 2 GB RAM and 32 GB storage version, with shipping expected by the end of November. Alternatively, a model with 3 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage is available for $79.99. The prices for each version are set to increase eventually. For further information, check out TechDweeb’s video linked below.

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    Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini: Compact Gaming Handheld with Emulation Features

     

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  • Anbernic RG DS: Affordable Dual-Screen Handheld Under $100

    Anbernic RG DS: Affordable Dual-Screen Handheld Under $100

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anbernic RG DS is confirmed as a real product, despite initial skepticism about its authenticity.
    2. The device is expected to retail for under $100, with a release anticipated in the coming weeks.
    3. The RG DS features dual displays, two joysticks, a directional pad, and multiple action buttons.
    4. The latest video showcases the device in various colors, including blue, white, and a see-through case.
    5. Specific technical details, such as the internal SoC and screen specifications, have not been revealed yet.

    Over a month ago, we shared news regarding the Anbernic RG DS. Around the same time, a video featuring this handheld device appeared, but there was some discussion about whether the video was real. One YouTuber even claimed, without proof, that it was just AI-generated nonsense. Now, we have confirmation: the Anbernic RG DS is indeed a real product, and while the initial video may have been made using AI, it has been verified by Anbernic. The company has now put out a new video that highlights the Anbernic RG DS once more.

    Pricing and Release Details

    What might be even more thrilling than the video itself are the details in the video’s title and description. Anbernic mentions that the device will be available for less than $100, although they have not disclosed a specific price yet. The same goes for the release date, but we believe it will hit the market in the coming weeks instead of months.

    Design and Features

    The latest video from Anbernic displays the RG DS from various perspectives and in different colors, such as blue, white, and a see-through case. This model features dual displays, two joysticks, a directional pad, and several action buttons. However, details about the internal SoC or the specifications of the two screens remain under wraps. A user on Reddit has made an attempt to estimate the size of the device based on the images, which seems fairly precise by using the USB-C port as a reference point.

    Anbernic (YouTube)

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  • R46H: Compact Gaming Handheld for Nintendo DS Emulation Released

    R46H: Compact Gaming Handheld for Nintendo DS Emulation Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. The R46H is designed to compete with the Anbernic RG40XX H, featuring joysticks below the ABXY buttons and d-pad but lacking RGB lighting.
    2. It has a 4-inch 4:3 IPS display and runs on the Rockchip RK3326 with 1 GB of RAM, capable of outputting 1,024 x 768 pixels.
    3. The device includes a 3,000 mAh battery, slots for two microSD cards, and a USB Type-C port; some models offer built-in Wi-Fi.
    4. The R46H comes in eight translucent color options, including blue, green, orange, pink, and purple.
    5. Pricing is around $46 with a 64 GB microSD card on AliExpress or $52.99 on Amazon.

    The R46H is a fresh horizontal gaming handheld that seems to be specifically designed to compete with last year’s Anbernic RG40XX H. This new device has a set of joysticks located beneath its ABXY buttons and d-pad, but it doesn’t feature the RGB lighting found on Anbernic’s model. The handheld also boasts a 4-inch 4:3 IPS display, mirroring the RG40XX H.

    Performance Specs

    What’s interesting about the R46H, which runs on the Rockchip RK3326 and has 1 GB of RAM, is its ability to output at 1,024 x 768 pixels. It has a compact design, housing a 3,000 mAh battery, along with slots for two microSD cards and a USB Type-C port. Some versions even come with built-in Wi-Fi, while other units provide a USB Wi-Fi dongle in the packaging.

    Color Options and Pricing

    At the moment, the R46H is available in eight different color choices. Almost all of these finishes are translucent, featuring shades like blue, green, orange, pink, and purple, among others. The price for the R46H is about $46 when bundled with a 64 GB microSD card on AliExpress, or approximately $3 extra for a 128 GB microSD card. Alternatively, you can find the same device for $52.99 on Amazon.

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