The gaming handheld industry has seen significant changes this year, from the high-end ASUS ROG Ally X to various Anbernic models like the RG35XX SP (currently priced at $76.99 on Amazon) that cater to the budget-friendly segment. Recently, Tecno has launched the Pocket Go via Kickstarter, which completely reimagines the conventional gaming handheld design.
Unveiling the Pocket Go
Tecno first showcased the Pocket Go in February at MWC 2024, where it revealed important specs and the device’s appearance. Later, in September, it presented the same device at IFA 2024, but didn’t share details about pricing or availability. For context, the Pocket Go controller runs on Windows 11 and comes equipped with the following hardware:
Features and Specifications
Additionally, the Pocket Go controller includes two USB Type-C ports and a UHS-II MicroSD card reader, alongside Hall effect analog sticks and triggers. It also has the typical gamepad buttons, featuring an ABXY layout similar to Xbox, all packed in a compact body weighing 550 g and measuring 181.7 x 129.7 x 67.4 mm.
In comparison, the paired Pocket Vision glasses deliver 1080p resolution at 60 Hz through 0.71-inch Micro OLED screens. These VR glasses are also equipped with speakers, a headphone jack, and a myopic adjustment wheel. However, they have a fixed USB Type-C port, which sets them apart from other similar devices.
Pricing and Availability
The Pocket Go and the VR glasses can be backed on Kickstarter starting at around $869. This base model includes 512 GB of storage and 16 GB of RAM, while a different option with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage is available for $1,049. Tecno is also selling the Pocket Vision glasses independently for $349. It’s important to note that the company plans to begin shipping both products in December 2024, with intentions to sell them at higher prices outside Kickstarter starting in November.
