Not long after showcasing the upcoming RG476H, Reddit user u/Qinki001 has shared some QQ screenshots that allege Anbernic is finally releasing a dual-screen clamshell device, after months of speculation. According to these leaks, the company is developing a device that closely mimics the form factor of the iconic Nintendo DSi, while also offering integer scaling of the DS’s native 256×192 resolution.
At least the bottom screen is expected to touchscreen, though what kind of displays they are is yet to be revealed. We can only assume it will look nothing like the below leak from almost a year ago, courtesy of leaker NITTRX
Hopefully it looks nothing like this leak from almost a year ago.
Performance expectations have been a moving target, with initial information suggesting the device would use a low-end chipset. However, the translated transcript paints a more promising picture with the Anbernic rep alluding to the potential inclusion of a T620 processor, a chipset that should be more than capable of upscaled DS emulation.
With a mid-range processor and focus on DS over 3DS, it is safe to assume this will be aimed at the budget sector. Instead of battling a space already crowded by AYANEO, AYN, and ZPG’s upcoming offerings, they’ll be competing with the likes of the Magic X Zero 40. While that device was pretty cool, it missed the mark on DS emulation in a lot of ways.
While the company’s upcoming devices look to address many of those issues, Anbernic’s experience could position this device to become the go-to handheld for Nintendo DS, maybe even beating out the original hardware. While a firm release date is unknown, the chats imply that it may launch soon after the upcoming RG476H.
I, for one, would love to see more companies go after these specific use cases, like DS emulation. Pico-Pal’s upcoming device is aimed at Pico-8 enthusiasts, the aforementioned Zero 40 is pretty great for TATE games, and a lot of folks rightfully turned their 34XX into a dedicated Game Boy Advance machine. What kind of bespoke handheld do you want to see from Anbernic next? Let us know in the comments below, and chat with us in our Discord!
Source: SBCGaming Reddit
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