A couple of weeks ago, XU Retro (who may or may not be somehow tied to MagicX) shared some details about their 2025 roadmap, including three new devices. The official image they shared only included device names and SOCs, but they shared a few more details with Redditor u/N4riN4ri, which we’ve compiled below:
- XU20 V32
- 3.2″ with a 1024×768 resolution
- Allwinner A133P
- Android 10 with modified Dawn Launcher.
- Vertical form factor
- XU30 V36
- 3.6″ display with unknown resolution
- Cortex A73-based SOC from Allwinner
- XU40 H55
- 5.5″ with a 1920×1080 resolution
- Allwinner A733- based SOC
Additionally, the same Reddit user shared photos of the XU20, which we are re-sharing here, and it looks like it could be an excellent Android-based alternative to devices like the 280V or Miyoo Mini. The device has a subtle notched design, in-line triggers, and what appears to be a single mono speaker.
On top of being a reasonably robust SOC for emulating systems up to PlayStation, it will also presumably be able to handle a fair amount of Android games, making this a perfect device for Stardew Valley on the go, or maybe even a Genshin Impact slideshow. It should also run some Nintendo 64, Nintendo DS, and Sega Dreamcast games, with some limitations. You could also use it as a portable media player or a crypto wallet (don’t do that). The sky is the limit!
All three devices will have a touchscreen and wifi and will presumably run the same build of Android 10 with MagicX’s Dawn Launcher. The XU30 could make an interesting competitor to the TrimUI Brick, though it is odd that they are withholding that device’s resolution. More interesting, though, is the XU40, which could be a standout budget device if the stars align, possibly competing with the TrimUI Brick and other mid-range horizontal handhelds.
While the user wasn’t able to share pricing information, it seems they’re aiming for the budget end of things, which is sorely lacking in high-quality Android-based handhelds. Per the XU company: “XU Retro enables retro gaming fans all around the world to own affordable Android touchscreen handheld devices.” We will continue to report on these devices as more information is released.
Sources: r/SBCGaming | r/SBCGaming
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I like the look of the XU20, the slope and notch at the bottom are very reminiscent of a Qanba Drone arcade stick.