Ayaneo has introduced the Pocket DS, a dual-screen Android handheld device that echoes the design and functionality of the beloved Nintendo DS. Now available for preorder on Indiegogo starting at $519, with early backer discounts lowering the price to $399, the Pocket DS is expected to ship as early as October 2025.
A Modern Take on a Classic Design
The Pocket DS aims to bring back the essence of Nintendo’s best-selling DS console with a modern twist. It features a 7-inch, 16:9, 1080p OLED folding top screen paired with a smaller 5-inch, 4:3, 1024×768 LCD display on the base, replicating the dual-screen experience that Nintendo fans cherish.
Available in yellow, black, and a limited retro gray color, the handheld is built for nostalgic gamers and newcomers alike who want a dedicated device for Android gaming and emulation.
Hardware and Performance
Powered by a Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 processor, the Pocket DS promises smooth performance for various gaming scenarios, though specific emulation capabilities have yet to be detailed. The base model offers 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, expandable via a microSD card slot.
For users seeking more power and storage, the device can be configured with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage, which brings the price to $759, or $639 with early backer discounts.
Advanced Controls and Features
The handheld is equipped with:
- Anti-drift TMR joysticks to prevent joystick drift issues common in many handhelds
- Hall effect triggers with adjustable sensitivity for precise controls
- Connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and gyroscopic controls
- A fingerprint scanning power button for secure access
- A large 8,000mAh battery with multiple performance modes and an option to disable the second screen to conserve power.
While Ayaneo has not disclosed exact battery life figures, the flexible power management suggests a decent playtime tailored to user needs.
Competing in the Retro Handheld Space
Unlike other retro handhelds that emulate consoles like the Game Boy, Game Boy Color, or Game Boy Advance, the Pocket DS focuses on reproducing the unique dual-screen experience of the Nintendo DS — still Nintendo’s best-selling console. This positions the Pocket DS as a significant contender in the handheld gaming market for those seeking a modern Android alternative to the Nintendo DS experience.
Ayaneo’s Pocket DS presents an intriguing blend of nostalgia and modern technology, supported by capable hardware and a thoughtful design. For those wanting to relive the dual-screen magic on a flexible Android platform, the Pocket DS, with its upcoming October 2025 release, could be the perfect handheld companion.