2026-05-25

AYANEO Announces New Vertical Handheld 'KONKR Pocket Block', Anbernic Launches Budget 'RG557' Variant

In late May 2026, the retro gaming and portable PC market saw a series of new hardware announcements and system updates from various manufacturers. AYANEO unveiled a Game Boy-inspired device and an arcade collaboration model, while Anbernic introduced a budget version of an existing model and released a long-awaited official update. Additionally, GPD released an official system management tool, enhancing user convenience.

AYANEO announces new Game Boy-style vertical handheld 'KONKR Pocket Block'

During an AYANEO product announcement stream on May 21, the new Android-based retro gaming handheld 'KONKR Pocket Block' was unveiled. The device features a compact vertical design strongly inspired by the original Game Boy, while incorporating a cyberpunk-style aesthetic.

AYANEO is promoting the device as the 'world's first AI gaming handheld,' though specific details regarding its AI capabilities have not yet been disclosed. The price is expected to be under $269, drawing attention from the community as a model targeting a more affordable price point, differing from the company's usual premium lineup.

Also announced during the stream was the 'Pocket AIR Mini IGS Limited Edition.' This is a limited model in collaboration with IGS and Arcade Home, featuring officially licensed arcade game content. It is equipped with a 4.2-inch 4:3 display and a MediaTek Helio G90T, and features a custom design inspired by arcade cabinets.

Anbernic launches 8GB RAM budget version of 'RG557' and adds Google Play support to 'RG VITA Pro'

On May 21, Anbernic added a more affordable variant to its Android-based handheld, the 'RG557.' Previously available only in a 12GB RAM / 256GB storage configuration, a new 8GB RAM / 128GB storage model is now offered starting at $229. Key specifications such as the Dimensity 8300 SoC, 5.5-inch AMOLED display, and 5500mAh battery remain unchanged, lowering the barrier to entry while maintaining powerful performance.

There were also significant developments on the software front. On May 20, firmware 'V1.14' was released for the 'RG VITA Pro,' which runs a dual-OS of Linux and Android. This update officially adds support for the Google Play Store, which was previously unsupported. Users can apply the update via OTA, which is expected to significantly improve usability by making app installation on the Android side much easier.

GPD releases official system management tool 'GPDTool v1.49'

GPD, a manufacturer of Windows-based portable gaming PCs, has released its official system management utility, 'GPDTool v1.49.'

While many users of Windows handhelds have previously relied on third-party management tools, GPDTool is provided as official manufacturer software. By using this tool, users can centrally manage TDP (Thermal Design Power) fine-tuning, real-time performance monitoring, frame rate locking, and fan mode control.

The v1.49 update fixes issues such as the desktop UI auto-hide function and display bugs when connecting an external GPU. It supports a wide range of GPD products, including the WIN series and WIN Mini series. For users of the latest models that support a TDP of up to 35W, the expansion of this official tool is welcome news, as it allows them to safely and easily unlock the full potential of their devices.