Tag: Retroid

  • Retroid Dual Screen Add-On Issues: Fix for Pocket 4 Pro Delayed

    Retroid Dual Screen Add-On Issues: Fix for Pocket 4 Pro Delayed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Retroid Dual Screen Add-On is incompatible with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro due to hardware-level issues.
    2. The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro uses a MediaTek processor, while other compatible models use Qualcomm processors, contributing to the incompatibility.
    3. Retroid plans to develop a fix involving a new DP video receiver chip, but it may take three to four months.
    4. Retroid will issue refunds automatically to customers who purchased the Dual Screen Add-On for the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.
    5. Customer frustration has grown due to prior claims of compatibility and multiple shipping delays for the accessory.

    When Retroid made the announcement about the Retroid Dual Screen Add-On, a secondary display for compatible handhelds, it highlighted that the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro was one of the initial first-party handhelds to work with it. However, a recent update from the manufacturer has left owners of the 2023 Android device feeling disappointed.

    Compatibility Issues Revealed

    Retroid’s social media posts have disclosed that the Retroid Dual Screen Add-On does not work with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (which is priced at $174 on Amazon), contradicting previous claims and even a demonstration that showed the accessory functioning with the handheld.

    The manufacturer states that this incompatibility arises from a hardware-level problem, preventing the display’s receiver chip from aligning with MediaTek’s output clock jitter, leading to PCR errors.

    Processor Differences

    Of the three Retroid handhelds that were initially said to be compatible with the Dual Screen Add-On, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro is the sole device powered by MediaTek processors, specifically the Dimensity 1100. The other two models, the Retroid Pocket 5 and the Retroid Pocket Mini/Mini V2, utilize Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 processor.

    Retroid announced that its research and development team is currently working on a fix that would involve an updated DP video receiver chip suitable for MediaTek processors. However, they estimate that the development process for this solution could take around three to four months.

    Refund Process Implemented

    Given the situation, Retroid has decided to issue refunds to those who purchased the Retroid Dual Screen Add-On along with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. According to their post, customers won’t need to take any action since the customer service team will handle the refund directly to the original payment methods.

    The announcement has sparked frustration among customers who had ordered the accessory, which has already experienced two shipping delays. Some users feel that Retroid has not been truthful and failed to adequately test the device’s compatibility with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.

    While Retroid claims that a solution is in the works, it remains uncertain whether they will find it worthwhile to see this solution through to completion, which may entail launching a third version of the accessory for devices powered by MediaTek, or if they will simply discontinue support for MediaTek devices altogether. Ultimately, only time will reveal the company’s final decision.

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  • Retroid Dual Screen Add-on Shipping Starts August 19

    Retroid Dual Screen Add-on Shipping Starts August 19

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Retroid Dual Screen Add-On is set to start shipping on August 19, after delays due to USB cable issues.
    2. OTA software updates for the Retroid Pocket 5 and Pocket Mini V2 are expected to roll out this week.
    3. The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro will also receive an update, but it may come later than those for the other models.
    4. The Dual Screen Add-On is priced at $69 and connects to compatible devices via USB-C.
    5. The add-on allows users to mirror displays or run different applications on each screen, enhancing the gaming experience.

    The Retroid Dual Screen is a new accessory that provides an extra screen for certain handheld devices. Initially revealed in June, it was meant to ship on August 5 but has experienced delays in reaching customers. Fortunately, this situation is about to improve.

    Shipping Update

    Retroid has announced on their social media that the Dual Screen Add-On will start shipping tomorrow, August 19. A post on X mentioned that the final USB cables, which were responsible for the delay, have finally arrived.

    Software Updates Incoming

    In the same post, it was shared that OTA updates for the Retroid Pocket 5 and Retroid Pocket Mini V2 are expected to roll out this week. It’s unclear whether these updates are related to the dual-screen add-on’s features or if they will introduce additional functionalities and fixes for the handheld devices.

    Additional Device Support

    Furthermore, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro will also receive an update, as noted in a comment on the original post. However, this update may come later than those for the other models.

    The Retroid Dual Screen Add-on can be purchased for $69 directly from the manufacturer’s website. It connects to compatible devices like the Pocket 5, Pocket Mini V2, Pocket Mini, and Pocket 4 Pro via a USB-C cable (currently listed on Amazon for $174). Retroid also offers a version of the Dual Screen Add-on that supports other devices with DisplayPort compatibility via USB-C, as long as their screen size is no larger than 7 inches.

    When the second screen is attached, users will have the ability to either mirror their display or run different applications on each screen. Adding this second display will enhance the experience for users looking to emulate dual-screen handhelds, such as the Nintendo DS.

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  • Anbernic Handhelds Get Major Update for Dual Screen Support

    Anbernic Handhelds Get Major Update for Dual Screen Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic is releasing an over-the-air update for its Android-powered gaming handhelds, including RG Slide, RG 556, 406H, 406V, and Cube.
    2. The update adds support for connecting to external displays, likely via USB-C, enhancing dual screen setups.
    3. The only official external screen accessory available now is from Retroid, raising questions about Anbernic’s plans for its own accessory.
    4. A new AI feature will provide real-time translations for games lacking native language support, benefiting players of certain RPGs.
    5. The update includes bug fixes and performance improvements but does not resolve reported snapping issues in some devices.

    Anbernic is in the process of releasing an over-the-air (OTA) update for its lineup of Android-powered gaming handhelds. This includes models like the RG Slide, RG 556, 406H, 406V, and Cube. A key addition to this update is the ability to connect to external displays, likely through USB-C. At this time, the only company offering an official external screen accessory is Retroid, and it will be interesting to see if Anbernic plans to create its own version.

    External Display Support

    This new feature means that users can utilize dual screen setups with nearly any external monitor that has USB-C compatibility, such as the 15-inch 1080p InnoView USB monitor priced at $59.99 on Amazon. However, this may affect the overall portability of the devices. Additionally, the DNA Duo and Retroid Dual Screen are expected to work together in some way.

    AI Enhancements and More

    The update also introduces an AI feature that provides real-time translations as overlays for games lacking support for a player’s native language. This is especially beneficial for fans of lesser-known Japanese RPGs.

    Moreover, the firmware update includes standard bug fixes and performance improvements, although it does not address the reported snapping issues that have been affecting several Anbernic handhelds.

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  • Retroid Dual Screen Add-on Demo for Pocket Mini 2 & Pocket 4 Pro

    Retroid Dual Screen Add-on Demo for Pocket Mini 2 & Pocket 4 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retroid has launched a Dual Screen Add-on for its handheld devices, enhancing gameplay by providing an additional screen.
    2. The add-on connects via a removable USB-C to USB-C cable and is compatible with the Retroid Pocket Mini and Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.
    3. The demo showcases various functionalities, like displaying game information on one screen while playing a game on the handheld, and using split-screen mode.
    4. Retroid offers two versions of the Dual Screen Add-on: one for its devices and another for other devices with specific size requirements.
    5. The add-on is priced at $69, with a $5 discount available using the code “RDS,” and shipping is expected to start on August 5.

    Retroid has released a demonstration video showcasing its Dual Screen Add-on working with two of its handheld devices. This accessory provides an additional screen above a compatible handheld, resembling dual-screen gadgets like the Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS.

    Demo Overview

    The video, which is three minutes long, features the Retroid Dual Screen Add-on utilized with a Retroid Pocket Mini and a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (which can be found on Amazon for $199). It highlights that the Dual-Screen Add-on comes with a removable USB-C to USB-C cable. This cable connects to the display and the handheld device via their respective ports.

    Gameplay Experience

    In the demo, the Retroid Pocket Mini is shown running a racing game. Here, the Dual Screen acts as the main display, while the handheld screen shows a map, car position, and additional game information. In another part of the video with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, the dual screen add-on is used to play a YouTube video while the user plays a game on the handheld. This allows users to watch a walkthrough video on the external screen while engaging in gameplay on the handheld.

    Additional Features

    This is not the first time Retroid has shared a video displaying the screen accessory prior to its launch. An earlier video illustrates the Dual Screen Add-on mirroring the handheld’s display. It also demonstrates how users can activate a split-screen mode, where one screen displays different content from the other.

    Retroid provides two different versions of the Dual Screen Add-on. One version is specifically designed for Retroid devices (including Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, Retroid Pocket 5, and Retroid Pocket Mini). The other version features a longer back clip and is suitable for other devices that have screen sizes between 6-7 inches, a maximum height of 115mm, and support DisplayPort via USB-C.

    Pricing and Availability

    Both variants of the Retroid Dual Screen Add-on can currently be ordered directly from Retroid for $69. Buyers can receive a $5 discount by using the code “RDS.” Shipping is anticipated to start on August 5.

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  • Retroid Launches Pocket Flip 2 Handheld with Early Discounts

    Retroid Launches Pocket Flip 2 Handheld with Early Discounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MediaTek Dimensity version of the Pocket Flip 2 has launched after a three-month delay, while the Qualcomm version is already available for $269.
    2. The Dimensity Edition features Bluetooth 5.2, offering Low Energy Audio and improved energy efficiency compared to the Qualcomm model’s Bluetooth 5.1.
    3. Charging capacity has decreased from 27 W to 18 W in the Dimensity Edition.
    4. Performance tests show the Dimensity 1100 chipset is 11% slower in GPU tasks and 22% slower in CPU performance compared to the Snapdragon 865.
    5. The Dimensity Edition is priced 13% lower, with additional discounts available using promo codes before their respective expiration dates.

    The MediaTek Dimensity version of the Pocket Flip 2 has finally launched after a long wait. While the Qualcomm version has been available for a while now (currently priced at $269 on Amazon), the MediaTek model faced a delay of three months for various reasons.

    Key Changes in Dimensity Edition

    To summarize, the Pocket Flip 2 Dimensity Edition introduces three significant updates compared to its Qualcomm counterpart. On the plus side, this new model supports Bluetooth 5.2, which brings Low Energy Audio (LE Audio) and better energy efficiency than the Bluetooth 5.1 used in the Qualcomm version of the Pocket Flip 2.

    Charging and Performance Differences

    However, there is a downside as the Dimensity Edition has reduced its charging capacity from 27 W to 18 W. Additionally, our testing indicates that the Dimensity 1100 chipset in this version lags behind the Snapdragon 865 by about 11% in GPU tasks, and it falls short by 22% in CPU performance.

    Pricing and Discounts

    Despite these differences, Retroid offers the new Dimensity Edition at a price that is 13% lower, or nearly 22% less if you use the discount code FLIP2SAVE20 at checkout before July 11. Alternatively, the code FLIP2SAVE10 will provide a $10 discount until August 9. For further information and a comparison chart of the two models, visit Retroid’s product page.

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    Retroid Launches Pocket Flip 2 Handheld with Early Discounts

     

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  • Retroid Announces Upcoming Release of Pocket Flip 2 Handheld

    Retroid Announces Upcoming Release of Pocket Flip 2 Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MediaTek Dimensity 1100 version of the Pocket Flip 2 will be available for order starting July 9 at 01:00 UTC.
    2. The Dimensity 1100 model is priced at $199, which is $20 less than the Snapdragon 865 version.
    3. Early buyers can use coupon codes for discounts: FLIP2SAVE20 for $20 off until July 11, and FLIP2SAVE10 for $10 off until August 9.
    4. Key differences include Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity in the Dimensity 1100 model, reduced wired charging from 27 W to 18 W, and a potential performance lag in GPU and CPU tasks.
    5. Both models share a 5,000 mAh battery and a 5.5-inch AMOLED display.

    Retroid has at last announced when the MediaTek Dimensity 1100 version of the Pocket Flip 2 will be available. Initially revealed alongside the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 version during pre-launch promotions, Retroid had indicated that the Dimensity 1100 models would be released a month after the Pocket Flip 2’s debut in March. Although this timeline wasn’t met, the company has since released an updated Pocket Mini, known as the V2, which fixes display problems found in the V1 model (curr. $229 on Amazon).

    Launch Details

    Now, Retroid has shared that the Dimensity 1100 version of the Pocket Flip 2 will be up for order starting from July 9 at 01:00 UTC. This new model will typically cost $20 less than the Snapdragon 865 version, coming in at a starting price of $199. Early buyers can also enjoy a $20 discount by using the coupon code FLIP2SAVE20 until July 11, and a $10 discount with the code FLIP2SAVE10 until August 9.

    Key Differences

    In summary, there are three main differences between the Dimensity 1100 and Snapdragon 865 versions of the Pocket Flip 2. Firstly, the Dimensity 1100 provides Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, while the Snapdragon 865 model uses Bluetooth 5.1. Although both models share a 5,000 mAh battery and a 5.5-inch AMOLED display, wired charging capabilities decrease from 27 W to 18 W. Additionally, the Dimensity 1100 version might see a 10% performance lag in GPU-intensive tasks and a 22% dip in CPU workloads compared to the Snapdragon 865. For more detailed information on Retroid’s latest clamshell gaming device, refer to our original article covering the Pocket Flip 2 launch.

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    Retroid Announces Upcoming Release of Pocket Flip 2 Handheld
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  • Retroid Pocket Unveils New Dual-Screen Gaming Handheld Accessory

    Retroid Pocket Unveils New Dual-Screen Gaming Handheld Accessory

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retroid is not launching a new device but an accessory for existing models.
    2. The accessory will add a secondary OLED display to the Pocket Mini, Pocket 5, and Pocket 4 Pro.
    3. The add-on features a 5.5-inch 1080p display and connects via DisplayPort Alt Mode using USB Type-C.
    4. Battery life will be affected when using the add-on, but it supports pass-through charging.
    5. Retroid will provide more information and pricing details next week.

    Retroid has finally disclosed the secrets behind the puzzling messages it shared on X this week. With imagery of two-headed snakes and vague nods to Bill & Ted, it appeared that the company was teasing a dual-screen device. However, Retroid has now confirmed that what they were hinting at is not exactly what people were expecting.

    Not a New Device

    In fact, Retroid isn’t launching a brand new device at all. Instead, they’re working on an accessory that adds a secondary display to the Pocket Mini, Pocket 5, and Pocket 4 Pro (currently priced at $174 on Amazon). As of now, Retroid hasn’t provided any specific technical details about the so-called ‘Retroid Dual Screen Add-On’.

    Display and Functionality

    That said, it seems Retroid has taken the 5.5-inch display from the Pocket 5. The company has confirmed that this add-on features an OLED screen, which displays at 1080p and 60 Hz when connected to the Pocket 5. Furthermore, the design of the accessory indicates that it connects to these handheld devices through DisplayPort Alt Mode, utilizing their USB Type-C ports.

    Impact on Battery Life

    As a result, this add-on will have an impact on the battery life of any handheld it connects to. However, Retroid has yet to disclose the power consumption specifics. On a positive note, the Dual Screen Add-On will support pass-through charging and comes with an adjustable clamp. It’s important to note that this accessory does not include the grip that Retroid showcased in its earlier promotional materials. Currently, Retroid expects to share more information next week and has reportedly already set a price.

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    Retroid Pocket Unveils New Dual-Screen Gaming Handheld Accessory

     

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  • Retroid Launches Pocket Classic: A Game Boy & Sega Saturn Handheld

    Retroid Launches Pocket Classic: A Game Boy & Sega Saturn Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pocket Classic is one of two new gaming handhelds released by Retroid, featuring the new Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 chipset.
    2. The Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 includes two performance cores, six efficiency cores, and an Adreno A12 GPU, offering improved performance over the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2.
    3. The Pocket Classic has a 3.92-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1,240 x 1,080 pixels and a 5,000 mAh battery supporting 27W wired charging.
    4. Pricing for the Pocket Classic starts at $119 for the 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage version, with a $129 option for 6 GB RAM and 128 GB storage.
    5. Retroid is offering stackable coupon codes for initial discounts, and pre-orders for the Pocket Classic will begin shipping in mid-April.

    The Pocket Classic is one of the two new gaming handhelds introduced by Retroid today, with the other one being the Pocket Flip 2. In brief, the Pocket Flip 2 is expected to be more powerful compared to the Pocket Classic. However, the Pocket Classic is notable for being the first device released with the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 chipset, which Qualcomm unveiled today along with the more advanced Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 and Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 chipsets.

    Details on the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2

    Information about the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 is currently limited. Qualcomm confirmed that this chipset includes two performance cores, six efficiency cores, and an Adreno A12 GPU during its reveal. According to early rumors, the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 is likely to be a bit more powerful than the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, which would make the Pocket Classic perform better than the Anbernic RG406V (currently priced at $209.99 on Amazon).

    Performance and Features

    At this moment, it’s uncertain whether Qualcomm’s new chipset will adequately support the Pocket Classic’s 6-button variant for Sega Saturn emulation. In addition, the Pocket Classic features a 3.92-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1,240 x 1,080 pixels and a 5,000 mAh battery that supports 27W wired charging.

    The pricing for the Pocket Classic starts at $119 for the version with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage, available in Classic 6 and Retro variants.

    Pricing Options and Promotions

    Alternatively, Retroid provides a model with 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage for $129, available in the same variants plus colors like Berry, Atomic Purple, Teal, Kiwi, and PKM Yellow. Initially, Retroid is introducing stackable coupon codes, CLASSICSAVE5 and MINISAVE10, which offer discounts of $5 and $10 respectively. Just a heads-up, the latter coupon is exclusive to those who’ve previously bought a Pocket Mini. Pre-orders for the Pocket Classic will start shipping in mid-April.

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    Retroid Launches Pocket Classic: A Game Boy & Sega Saturn Handheld

     

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  • Retroid Pocket Flip 2: High-End Clamshell Gaming Handheld Launch

    Retroid Pocket Flip 2: High-End Clamshell Gaming Handheld Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pre-orders for the Pocket Flip 2 will start on March 17 in some regions and March 18 in others, at 01:30 UTC.
    2. The base price for the Pocket Flip 2 is $189, featuring a MediaTek Dimensity 1100 chipset, while a Snapdragon 865 version is available for $219.
    3. The Snapdragon 865 model offers about 30% better performance than the Dimensity 1100 in benchmarks.
    4. Both versions will feature a 5.5-inch AMOLED display and a 5,000 mAh battery, but the Dimensity 1100 has slower wired charging.
    5. The Pocket Flip 2 aims to match the performance of the more expensive Ayn Odin2 when emulating games from systems like the PS2 and Wii.

    The Pocket Flip 2 has an official release date, similar to the Pocket Classic that was discussed earlier. To summarize, Retroid first introduced the Pocket Flip 2 nearly a month ago, and soon after, speculations about the device started circulating online.

    Pre-Order Details

    Now, it has been announced that fans only have a few days left until pre-orders for the clamshell gaming handheld become available. As shown in the image below, the Pocket Flip 2 will be available for purchase starting March 17 in certain regions and March 18 in others. Specifically, Retroid will start taking pre-orders at 01:30 UTC on March 18.

    Pricing and Specifications

    The Pocket Flip 2 will be priced starting at $189 and features a MediaTek Dimensity 1100 chipset, 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, and 128 GB of UFS 3.1 flash storage. Alternatively, there will be a version with a Snapdragon 865 for $219, which has the same memory specifications, including a $10 discount for launch. For comparison, the Snapdragon 865 performs about 30% better than the Dimensity 1100 in our benchmarks.

    Performance Expectations

    With the Snapdragon 865, the Pocket Flip 2 is expected to approach the performance levels of the pricier Ayn Odin2 (currently listed at $449 on Amazon) when emulating games from systems like the PS2 and Wii, among others. Both versions of the Pocket Flip 2 will come equipped with a 5.5-inch AMOLED display and a 5,000 mAh battery. However, the Dimensity 1100 model will have slower wired charging, yet it includes a slightly newer Bluetooth version compared to the Snapdragon 865 model.

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    Retroid Pocket Flip 2: High-End Clamshell Gaming Handheld LaunchRetroid Pocket Flip 2: High-End Clamshell Gaming Handheld Launch

     

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  • Retroid Offers Solutions for Pocket Mini Display Shader Issues

    Retroid Offers Solutions for Pocket Mini Display Shader Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retroid initially rejected return requests for the Pocket Mini but later allowed returns for only 200 units despite all devices having the same display issue.
    2. Customer dissatisfaction led to significant backlash, including doxxing of a company representative, who later stepped down.
    3. Current Pocket Mini owners can receive a $10 refund if they keep their devices, and the limit on returns has been lifted.
    4. Retroid plans to release a new hardware revision for the Pocket Mini with a replacement display, expected in about a year.
    5. Existing Pocket Mini owners will receive a discount on the upcoming display hardware.

    Last week, we shared news about Retroid’s plan to address ongoing display problems affecting the Pocket Mini. The company mentioned that anyone needing assistance could reach out to their support team for help. Since then, the situation has evolved, and not all of it is pleasant.

    Issues with Returns

    At first, some customers reported that Retroid was rejecting return requests, which contradicted their earlier reassurances. Later, the company stated that only 200 units could be returned, even though all Pocket Mini devices have the same problem with rendering CRT shaders correctly. It’s important to note that this issue is exclusive to the Pocket Mini and does not affect the Pocket 5 or the earlier Pocket 4 and Pocket 4 Pro (currently priced at $199 on Amazon).

    Customer Reactions

    In a video by Retro Game Corps, it was highlighted that the company’s social media rep faced doxxing due to backlash from unhappy owners over Retroid’s handling of the situation. After this individual stepped down, Retroid released a detailed update regarding the Pocket Mini’s future.

    Refund and Hardware Updates

    For instance, all current Pocket Mini owners can now receive a $10 refund if they choose to keep their devices. If that refund doesn’t meet your expectations, the previous limit of 200 returns seems to have been lifted. Additionally, Retroid announced plans to create a new hardware revision for the Pocket Mini, which will include a replacement display. While this new version won’t be available for another year, existing owners can expect a discount on the upcoming display hardware. For further information, please refer to the statement below.

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    Retroid Offers Solutions for Pocket Mini Display Shader Issues
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