Tag: Snapdragon 865

  • Turn a Cracked Smartphone into a Mini PC for Gaming Under $100

    Turn a Cracked Smartphone into a Mini PC for Gaming Under $100

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smartphone Hardware Potential: The project highlights the advanced capabilities of smartphones when paired with appropriate software, using a damaged Galaxy S20 FE powered by a Snapdragon 865.

    2. Cost-Effective Setup: The DIY mini PC uses minimal components to keep costs low, including a USB-C to HDMI adapter and a Raspberry Pi casing.

    3. Desktop-Like Experience: The modified smartphone can access a desktop-like environment through Samsung DeX, with display output set to 1440p.

    4. Gaming Performance: While not designed for high-end gaming, the setup can run lighter games and retro game emulation effectively, including PS2 and Game Boy titles.

    5. Affordability and Accessibility: The initiative aims to provide a low-cost computing solution using older smartphones, which are often available cheaply in the second-hand market.


    The recent DIY mini PC initiative by YouTuber ETA Prime has caught attention, as it transforms a damaged smartphone into an efficient computer. While it may not match the power of some budget-friendly x86 mini PCs on the market, that’s not the main focus of this endeavor.

    Smartphone Hardware Potential

    The essence of this project lies in showcasing how advanced smartphone technology can be when matched with suitable software. The broken device used here is a Galaxy S20 FE, which has a display that doesn’t work. It is powered by the Snapdragon 865, a high-end system on chip (SoC) from early 2020, and the revamped mini PC utilizes the Samsung DeX feature.

    Keeping Costs Low

    ETA Prime has been careful to keep the cost of hardware down, using minimal components. The essential parts include a USB-C to HDMI adapter (Anker 310 adapter currently priced at $16.99 on Amazon), a Raspberry Pi casing, and a cooling modifier. After connecting everything, the modified S20 FE is capable of entering a desktop-like environment through DeX. With a clever software tweak, ETA has also managed to set the display output to 1440p.

    For those who aren’t particularly into gaming, this arrangement can easily manage everyday tasks. For gamers, ETA Prime demonstrates that the Snapdragon 865 with 6 GB of RAM can effectively run lighter games. By using GameNative, a Windows gaming emulator, the YouTuber showcases Hollow Knight: Silksong operating at a steady 60 FPS.

    Retro Gaming Capabilities

    This setup also excels in retro game emulation. ETA Prime has demonstrated several PS2 and Game Boy games running without issues. Native Android games tend to work fine too, although it is important to mention that the hardware struggles with more demanding titles.

    Nevertheless, performance wasn’t the primary goal for this project. The focus is on affordability and accessibility. Many older smartphones, like the Galaxy S20 FE, can often be found in the second-hand market at a low price because of damaged screens. However, it’s essential to highlight that setups like this are not a true desktop alternative. Instead, they provide a “desktop-like” experience. For further details, check out the video linked below.

    ETA Prime on YouTube

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  • Mangmi Launches Pocket Max: Powerful 144Hz AMOLED Gaming Handheld

    Mangmi Launches Pocket Max: Powerful 144Hz AMOLED Gaming Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch and Pricing: Mangmi’s Pocket Max launched worldwide, priced at $199.99, increasing to $239.99 after the early bird promotion ends on February 12.

    2. Display and Performance: The device features a 7-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 1,920 × 1,080 pixels, 800 nits peak brightness, and a 144 Hz refresh rate.

    3. Battery and Charging: It includes an 8,000 mAh battery that supports 27 W wired charging for quick power-ups.

    4. Powerful Hardware: Equipped with a Snapdragon 865 chipset, the Pocket Max is expected to be more than twice as powerful as its predecessor, the Air X.

    5. Special Features: Notable features include TMR joysticks, Hall effect triggers, modular controller components, 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of storage, with options for three colors.


    Mangmi has just launched the Pocket Max worldwide. This new gaming handheld runs on Android and is a successor to the Air X, which Mangmi began selling in October 2025 for $159.99 on Amazon. Unlike its predecessor, the Pocket Max aims to compete with larger Android devices like the Ayaneo Pocket Evo and Ayn Odin2 Portal.

    Display and Performance

    The Pocket Max features a 7-inch OLED screen, similar to the displays found on the Pocket Evo and Odin2 Portal. The resolution stands at 1,920 × 1,080 pixels with a 16:9 aspect ratio, offering an impressive peak brightness of 800 nits and a refresh rate of 144 Hz. It also packs an 8,000 mAh battery that supports 27 W wired charging for quick power-ups.

    Special Features

    Among its notable features are TMR joysticks, Hall effect triggers, and modular controller components like those seen in the Ayaneo 3. With a Snapdragon 865 chipset, the Pocket Max is expected to be more than twice as powerful as the Air X. The starting price for the Pocket Max is $199.99, which includes a complimentary magnetic d-pad and ABXY modules. It comes with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, and buyers can choose from three different colors. After the early bird promotion ends on February 12, the price will increase to $239.99.

    Mangmi’s new device is set to shake up the gaming handheld market with these competitive specs and features.

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  • Pocket Max: Mangmi Announces $199 Gaming Handheld Release Details

    Pocket Max: Mangmi Announces $199 Gaming Handheld Release Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Date and Pricing: The Pocket Max will launch on February 6 at 02:00 UTC, starting at $199.99, with a price increase to $239.99 on February 12.

    2. Enhanced Performance: The device features a Snapdragon 865 processor, making it more than twice as powerful as the Air X.

    3. Larger Battery: The Pocket Max has a 60% larger battery with an 8,000 mAh capacity compared to the Air X.

    4. High-Quality Display: It includes a 7-inch OLED screen with 1080p resolution, 144 Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of 800 nits.

    5. Competitive Positioning: The Pocket Max competes with premium Android gaming handhelds like the Ayaneo Pocket Evo and Ayn Odin2 Portal.


    Mangmi has finally shared the launch date and pricing for its much-anticipated Pocket Max handheld. First hinted at nearly two months ago, the Pocket Max aims to outperform the current Air X in various aspects.

    Powerful Specifications

    For example, the Pocket Max replaces the Snapdragon 662 used in the Air X with a Snapdragon 865. Our tests indicate that the Snapdragon 865 could make the Pocket Max more than twice as powerful compared to the Air X. Furthermore, the Pocket Max boasts a battery that is 60% larger than the Air X, promising an impressive 8,000 mAh typical capacity right out of the box.

    Impressive Display

    In addition, the Pocket Max comes equipped with a 7-inch OLED screen that offers a 1080p resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio, along with a 144 Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 800 nits. This places the Pocket Max in direct competition with other premium Android gaming handhelds, such as the Ayaneo Pocket Evo and the Ayn Odin2 Portal (currently priced at $459 on Amazon).

    Affordable Launch Price

    Nonetheless, the Pocket Max will be available starting at just $199.99. This price includes 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, and the device will officially go on sale at 02:00 UTC on February 6. It’s important to note that prices will increase to $239.99 on February 12. For more information, please visit Mangmi’s website.

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  • Complete Specifications of the Pocket Max by Mangmi

    Complete Specifications of the Pocket Max by Mangmi

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Mangmi Pocket Max features a 7-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1920 × 1080 and a 144Hz refresh rate.
    2. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset, with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.
    3. The device includes an 8,000mAh battery, charges at 27W via USB-C, and supports video output, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.1.
    4. Design elements feature RGB-lit thumbsticks, Hall Effect triggers, a 6-axis G-sensor, and customizable back buttons.
    5. The Pocket Max weighs 450 grams and comes in White, Black, and Retro GB color options.


    After a few weeks of teasing about its new handheld device, Mangmi has finally unveiled the complete specifications for the Pocket Max. This move is thought to suggest that an official launch may be just around the corner.

    Display and Performance

    The Mangmi Pocket Max features a 7-inch AMOLED screen boasting a resolution of 1920 × 1080 and a refresh rate of 144Hz. It will be equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 chipset, which is also found in the AYN Thor Lite and Retroid Pocket 5 (currently priced at $249 on Amazon). The spec sheet shared on X indicates that there will be a single SKU with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage available.

    Battery and Connectivity

    This handheld device will pack an 8,000mAh battery that charges at 27W through a USB-C port, which also supports video output. Additional ports on the Pocket Max include a 3.5mm headphone jack and a MicroSD card slot. Connectivity options highlight Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and it even includes a cooling fan. It will come pre-installed with Android 13.

    Design Features

    The Mangmi Pocket Max will showcase asymmetrical TMR thumbsticks embedded with RGB ring lights, Hall Effect triggers, a 6-axis G-sensor, and a modular magnetic D-Pad along with ABXY buttons. Additionally, there are two customizable back buttons designed into the handheld.

    Weight and Dimensions

    According to the spec sheet, the Pocket Max weighs 450 grams, making it heavier than certain competitors like the AYN Odin 3 and Konkr Pocket Fit, which weigh 390 grams and 386 grams, respectively. The size of the Pocket Max is noted as 254.87 × 101.06 × 17.45 millimeters. Earlier this month, Mangmi announced that the Pocket Max would come in White, Black, and Retro GB color options.

    It is anticipated that Mangmi will soon follow up this announcement with information regarding the launch date and pricing details.

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  • Mangmi Unveils Pocket Max Battery Capacity and Button Colors

    Mangmi Unveils Pocket Max Battery Capacity and Button Colors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pocket Max will feature a substantial 8,000mAh battery, promising extended gameplay for users.
    2. Its battery capacity is comparable to the AYN Odin 3, which has a smaller display but a more powerful processor.
    3. Mangmi has revealed button color choices based on fan feedback, with specific designs for the white and black models.
    4. The white variant will have white buttons with orange markings, while the black model will have black buttons with white markings.
    5. There is no specific release date or pricing yet, but a pre-order phase with an early bird price is expected.


    After sharing some details about the upcoming Pocket Max handheld back in December 2025, Mangmi has continued to unveil more information, now focusing on the device’s battery capacity.

    Powerful Battery

    A recent post on their social media revealed that the Pocket Max will be equipped with a significant 8,000mAh battery, complementing its 7-inch 144Hz OLED display and Snapdragon 865 chipset. Mangmi claims this large battery will provide users with extended hours of gameplay, which is a big plus for gamers.

    Comparison with AYN Odin 3

    Interestingly, this battery capacity matches that of the AYN Odin 3, which features a smaller 6-inch 120Hz OLED display but packs a more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. This comparison highlights the impressive specs of both devices.

    Button Color Choices

    Alongside the battery information, Mangmi has also revealed the button colors for two of the Pocket Max’s color options. This decision follows a poll they conducted a few weeks earlier, gathering feedback from fans about the button colors for the white and black models of the Pocket Max.

    As per the poll’s results, the white variant will feature white buttons with orange markings/text as initially planned. Conversely, the black model will showcase black buttons with white markings/text, differing from the original orange markings/text shown in early renders. The Retro GB color option will keep its original design intact.

    Release Date and Pricing

    Currently, there is no specific information regarding the release date or pricing for the Mangmi Pocket Max. However, it is likely that there will be a pre-order phase with an early bird price, similar to what occurred with the Mangmi Air X, which is available on Amazon for $159.99.

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  • Ayn Thor Lite: Affordable Retro Handheld with Dual AMOLED Display

    Ayn Thor Lite: Affordable Retro Handheld with Dual AMOLED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ayn Thor Lite is available for pre-order at a price of $249, with shipment expected in mid-January.
    2. The Lite model features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, which is less powerful than the Base model’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, but suitable for typical usage like retro gaming.
    3. It has 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, and is $50 cheaper than the Base version.
    4. The device includes dual AMOLED displays with resolutions of 1,080 x 1,920 and 1,080 x 1,240, and runs on Android 13.
    5. The Ayn Thor Lite weighs 380 grams, has a 6000 mAh battery, supports WiFi 6, and features Hall-effect joysticks for improved control.


    The Ayn Thor has been presented before, but it’s now available for pre-order once again, featuring the budget-friendly Lite version priced at $249. The arrival of this second batch is expected to start in mid-January, so those looking to purchase will need to be patient and should thoroughly review the shipping conditions ahead of time, since prices may vary for buyers based on their locations (click here to check Ayn’s shipping policy).

    Lite Model Details

    The Lite variant is lower than the Base model in both features and cost. It shares the same storage capacity with the Base model but is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 instead of the more powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. This leads to reduced performance, though it shouldn’t be a significant issue for typical usage, particularly for playing retro games. The Lite model is $50 cheaper than the Base version. It has 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage. Unlike some competitors in the retro handheld market, Ayn does not provide memory cards loaded with ROMs that might infringe on copyright laws.

    Display and Specifications

    This handheld device sports dual AMOLED displays with resolutions of 1,080 x 1,920 and 1,080 x 1,240, measuring 6 inches and 3.92 inches diagonally. The System on Chip (SoC) is actively cooled and operates on Android 13. Weighing in at 380 grams and with a thickness of 25.6 millimeters, the Ayn Thor Lite is powered by a 6000 mAh battery and can output video through USB-C. It supports WiFi 6, and the control scheme includes Hall-effect joysticks for better precision.

    Ayn via Retro Handhelds

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  • Mangmi Pocket Max Specs: Processor, RAM, and Storage Details Leaked

    Mangmi Pocket Max Specs: Processor, RAM, and Storage Details Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Mangmi Pocket Max will use the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, which is also used in the Retroid Pocket 5 and AYN Thor Lite.
    2. Pricing for the Pocket Max may be similar to the Retroid Pocket 5, which is currently priced at $199.
    3. The Pocket Max is expected to have a 7-inch 144Hz OLED display, offering a larger and faster screen compared to the Pocket 5’s 5.5-inch 60Hz OLED display.
    4. There is speculation about potential different models of the Pocket Max with more powerful chipsets and higher RAM/storage options.
    5. Key details such as battery capacity, charging speed, Android version, and final pricing are still unknown and expected to be revealed soon.


    Mangmi has been gradually unveiling information about its new handheld device, the Pocket Max. Earlier today, they posted some important details, including the processor, on X, but quickly removed the post afterward. Fortunately, a user on Reddit managed to capture the information before it disappeared.

    Processor Specs Revealed

    From the now-removed post, it appears that the Mangmi Pocket Max will utilize the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, which is also found in the Retroid Pocket 5 and the AYN Thor Lite. While this processor is quite capable, it’s starting to show its age, especially given when the Pocket Max is set to launch. However, if the price is similar to the Mangmi Air X, it might not be too disappointing.

    Pricing Comparisons

    Currently, Retroid offers the Pocket 5 for $199. This device features the Snapdragon 865 processor, along with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage, similar to what is expected in the Pocket Max. Still, the Pocket Max seems to have an edge with its impressive 7-inch 144Hz OLED display, while the Pocket 5 sports a smaller 5.5-inch 60Hz OLED display.

    Speculation and Future Details

    It’s unclear why Mangmi decided to take down the post, but some believe there might be different models with more powerful chipsets, and potentially higher RAM and storage options. This wouldn’t be surprising, as other brands like AYN, Ayaneo, and Retroid often follow similar practices. Whether the Mangmi Pocket Max will offer such variations remains uncertain.

    A number of details about the Pocket Max are still left unknown, including the battery capacity, charging speed, Android version, and, most importantly, the price. Hopefully, all these details will be shared before the month comes to a close.

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  • Mangmi Unveils Powerful Pocket Max Gaming Handheld Device

    Mangmi Unveils Powerful Pocket Max Gaming Handheld Device

    Key Takeaways

    1. The retro gaming handheld market had a successful year with many great options.
    2. Mangmi is introducing a new device called the Pocket Max, which will be larger than the Air X.
    3. The Pocket Max features off-center thumbsticks and buttons similar to an Xbox layout.
    4. It is expected to have improved performance, potentially powered by a Snapdragon 865 processor.
    5. More information about the Pocket Max will be released as the launch date approaches.


    The retro gaming handheld market experienced a remarkable year filled with numerous excellent choices at various price ranges. Among the standout devices is the Mangmi Air X, which is the first handheld from a relatively unknown brand. Now, Mangmi is set to expand on that success with yet another device.

    Teaser for the Pocket Max

    Mangmi has shared a teaser about its upcoming handheld, dubbed the Pocket Max. This announcement features a sneak peek image revealing the outline of the device, which seems to be larger compared to the Air X. The design indicates that the Mangmi Pocket Max will have off-center thumbsticks and action buttons resembling an Xbox layout. Additionally, there are some buttons located in the upper right corner that are likely for volume control and powering the device on.

    Performance Expectations

    Although specific technical specifications haven’t been disclosed, Mangmi’s announcement suggests that the Pocket Max will offer improved performance over the Air X. Moreover, it mentions that this handheld is designed for more than just gaming.

    There are rumors circulating that the device will be powered by a Snapdragon 865 processor. Even though this chipset is a bit dated, it still delivers solid performance. The price point will be crucial as well. It might even come in lower than the Retroid Pocket 5, which has a listed price of $199 but is available for $233.10 on Amazon.

    Anticipation for More Information

    We anticipate that further information about the Mangmi Pocket Max will emerge as its launch date approaches.

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  • AYN Thor Price, Colors, and Grip Case Details Revealed

    AYN Thor Price, Colors, and Grip Case Details Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The AYN Thor will offer two processor options: Snapdragon 865 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, with differing prices.
    2. Early bird prices start at $249 for the base model (Snapdragon 865) and $299 for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 version.
    3. Additional configurations include a 12GB RAM/256GB storage option priced at $349 and a 16GB RAM/1TB storage option priced at $429.
    4. The AYN Thor will be available in three colors: Black, Rainbow (White), and Clear Purple, with button colors subject to community feedback.
    5. The device will feature a TPU Grip for enhanced comfort during gaming sessions.


    Another day brings more updates about the AYN Thor. After the previous day’s details on its processor and display specifications, the company has now disclosed the prices for the upcoming dual-screen gaming handheld along with the available color choices.

    Processor Variants and Pricing

    AYN has previously announced that the Thor will come in two processor options — one featuring the Snapdragon 865 and another utilizing the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, much like the AYN Odin 2 (which offers a 12+256GB model on Amazon for $379). Thus, it’s expected that the price will differ depending on the processor chosen.

    The AYN Thor will start at an early bird price of $249 (with a retail price of $259) for the base model that includes a Snapdragon 865 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. There is also a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 version available with the same RAM and storage, priced at $299 during the early bird phase, with a final retail price of $309.

    Additional Options and Features

    Furthermore, there will be an option featuring 12GB RAM and 256GB of storage, utilizing the same processor, priced at $349 (retail price of $359). The highest tier will be the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 version with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, retailing for $429 (final price of $459).

    Along with the pricing details, AYN has announced that the AYN Thor will come in three colors: Black, Rainbow (White), and Clear Purple. The renders of these colors indicate that the Rainbow version features colored ABXY buttons; however, AYN mentions that the final button colors will be determined by community feedback.

    Comfort and Ergonomics

    The AYN Thor will also come equipped with a TPU Grip designed for a more comfortable gaming experience. It remains unclear whether this grip will be available in colors that correspond with the handheld or if it will only come in black, as shown in the image above.

    AYN has been making strides in the gaming handheld market, and these details provide an interesting glimpse into what consumers can expect from the AYN Thor.

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  • AYN Thor: New Compact Clamshell Gaming Handheld Processor Options

    AYN Thor: New Compact Clamshell Gaming Handheld Processor Options

    Key Takeaways

    1. AYN Thor features dual OLED screens and a clamshell design to compete with the Ayaneo Pocket DS.
    2. The device dimensions are 150 x 94 x 25.6 mm, weighing approximately 380 g, making it larger and heavier than the Retroid Pocket Flip 2.
    3. It has a 20% larger battery than the Pocket Flip 2, exceeding 5,000 mAh.
    4. The AYN Thor will offer a choice between Snapdragon 865 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipsets for different performance levels.
    5. Pricing and availability details for the AYN Thor have not yet been announced.


    AYN Technologies keeps on revealing details about its new AYN Thor gaming handheld. Today, the company announced that their first clamshell design will come with dual OLED screens, aiming to outdo the Ayaneo Pocket DS. They also posted some initial hardware specs on Discord, which we’ve included below.

    Size and Weight Comparison

    The dimensions of the AYN Thor are 150 x 94 x 25.6 mm, and it weighs around 380 g. This means the AYN Thor is a bit bigger than the Retroid Pocket Flip 2, which measures 140.5 x 89.5 x 24.4 mm and weighs about 306 g—almost 20% lighter. In contrast, the Ayaneo Pocket DS is on the heavier side, with dimensions of 179.8 x 101.8 x 25 mm and a weight of 540 g.

    Battery and Performance

    With a larger body, AYN can fit in a battery that’s 20% bigger than the Pocket Flip 2’s 5,000 mAh. Additionally, the Thor will come with a choice between a Snapdragon 865 or a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. This means that the base model should perform similarly to the Pocket Flip 2, while the version with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is expected to match the performance of the Ayn Odin2 series. As for pricing and when it will be available, those details are still under wraps for now.

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