The options for dual-screen handhelds are quite interesting, with the AYANEO Flip 1S DS debuting alongside the Anbernic RG DS. Even handhelds with this inherent functionality not built in can be upgraded to a dual-screen setup. Take the Retroid Dual Screen Add-on and the ROG Ally X mod. If we purely talk about the dual-screen handhelds, Anbernic RG DS has been popular with the gaming community.
Now, the Shenzhen-based gaming console maker has launched the RG DS Plus dual-screen handheld, and it’s better in every aspect than its predecessor, except one. The gaming device draws inspiration from the Nintendo DS and goes the length to adding a stylus for enjoying titles like Stardew Valley or Vampire Survivors.
Designer: Anbernic
The handheld runs on Linux OS, compared to Android on the predecessor. This software is based on a fresh dual-screen emulator called NNDSS (based on the Nintendo DS) that has microphone support, seamless screen swapping, 76 built-in shader options, a real-time clock, and an instant save option. Both screens measure 4.3 inches (1024×768 resolution), touting 4x pixel-perfect scaling. The lower second display has a touch-based interface. The upgraded dual alloy hinge on the RG DS Plus has a longer lifespan and allows stepless positioning for far better ergonomic play. To ensure smoother play, the device has four digital shoulder buttons and an analog stick.
From the reveal video on YouTube, it is apparent that the handheld gets dual USB-C ports, dual microSD card slots, a headphone jack, and front-facing speakers. The only thing that suspiciously remains unchanged from the earlier version is the Rockchip RK3568 chipset, which could be a deal breaker for many gamers. The maker has also ditched the built-in eMMC memory to keep the cost the same as the earlier version. Also, the @TheGammaSqueeze collaboration to port GammaOS means the RAM is downgraded to 1GB, compared to the 3GB on the previous device. So why does it carry the Plus moniker? Well, that’s because it is bigger in size and features.
What makes the RG DS Plus a step ahead of rivals like AYANEO is the presence of an integrated capacitive stylus and a microphone. At this point, there are no more details about the specifications or a more detailed feature list. Anbernic RG DS Plus will be priced below $100 and come in three color options: Metallic Blue, Matte black and Coral Pink. There is no release date yet, so we’ll keep you posted. Experienced gamers already know they can get it for around $90 if they buy it in the first 72 hours.
