The Pico-Pal, a new open source ESP32-based handheld, is entering the surprisingly crowded “looks exactly like a Game Boy Color” space. The device combines the tried and true aesthetic with modern components and targets developers, hardware tinkerers, and, of course, retro gaming enthusiasts. Additionally, the Pico-Pal is being marketed as a great platform for the beloved PICO-8 fantasy console.

The Pico-Pal runs on a Raspberry Pi RP2350B and an ESP32. This combo won’t exactly run Nintendo Switch titles, but it can comfortably run most 8-bit systems. With community interest you could also see stuff like more virtual consoles, and retro computers show up. On the hardware front, the Pico-Pal sports a 2.6-inch IPS LCD, stereo speakers, and external video output. In terms of connectivity, there is a USB-C port, infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and excitingly: a functioning Real-Time Clock.

Like other open-source projects before it, the Pico-Pal is also designed for hardware hacking and development. Potential use cases put forward by the creators range from an MP3 player to a universal remote control to a platform for security penetration testing (one that won’t get taken by the TSA). For developers, it can be a portable testbed for Raspberry Pi RP2350 projects based on its I/O ports and SPI and I²C capabilities. Lastly, the handheld features a hilarious number of LEDs, which I hope can be customized, or at least disabled.

Interested potential customers and developers can sign-up on the product page and will be notified of all their updates leading up to the launch of the crowdfunding campaign. Additionally, the design and development team has provided the complete schematics, firmware, and a full bill of materials freely on the internet. Users are free to alter the software, repair the hardware, or simply learn more about making the device.

Currently, the Pico-Pal is listed as “coming soon” on the Crowd Supply website. Pricing and official launch information have not been specified yet, though based on the sub-$1 price of the RP2350, it presumably won’t be aimed at the premium market. With its blend of accessible components and an open-source philosophy, the Pico-Pal is shaping up to be a versatile and eagerly awaited addition to the handheld scene.

Source: Pico-Pal

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