2026-07-06

Anbernic Announces First Snapdragon Device 'RG 55G1', Ultra-High-End 'AYANEO NEXT 2' Launches, and Other Latest Trends

From late June to early July 2026, there have been significant movements in the portable gaming PC and retro gaming console markets. Anbernic has announced its first Snapdragon-powered model, while Retroid has introduced a new device featuring an OLED display. Furthermore, in the Windows handheld space, ultra-high-end devices equipped with AMD's next-generation APUs have begun to emerge.

Anbernic announces first Snapdragon-powered device 'RG 55G1'

Anbernic, which has primarily used Rockchip and Unisoc SoCs, has announced its first new Android handheld powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor: the 'RG 55G1'. According to official teaser videos and preview information, it adopts a horizontal design reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch Lite and features 2.5D glass on the front.

Great attention has been paid to the controls, featuring 3D Hall Effect joysticks with RGB ring lights, Hall Effect triggers, and double-shot molded ABXY buttons. It also appears to include an internal cooling fan, designed to withstand long gaming sessions.

While detailed pricing and release dates have not yet been announced, the adoption of Snapdragon provides a significant advantage in terms of emulator compatibility and graphics drivers. As Anbernic promotes it as a 'new core,' it is expected to be an important model that raises the performance standard in the company's lineup.

Trends in next-generation ultra-spec devices 'AYANEO NEXT 2' and 'GPD WIN Max 3'

In the Windows-based portable gaming PC sector, information on next-generation devices adopting AMD's 'Strix Halo' architecture has been released, with their extraordinary specifications and pricing becoming a hot topic.

The CEO of AYANEO announced that shipping for the 'AYANEO NEXT 2', which had been kept under wraps for a long time, will begin in July. It is equipped with a Ryzen AI Max 385 or Max+ 395 and features a 9.06-inch OLED display with a maximum refresh rate of 165Hz. However, due to memory shortages and other factors, the pricing is very aggressive, starting at $2,999 for the base configuration (32GB RAM/1TB) and reaching $5,299 for the top-tier model. Additionally, because it carries a large 115Wh battery, users should be aware that it exceeds the carry-on limits for most commercial aircraft.

Meanwhile, leaks and early retailer listings for GPD's next model, the 'GPD WIN Max 3', have also been confirmed. It is said to feature the Ryzen AI Max+ 388 and 395, up to 128GB of LPDDR5X-8000 memory, a 9.06-inch 165Hz AMOLED display, and a 97Wh battery. With features like a modular cooling system, it has reached a level that should be called the 'smallest gaming laptop,' attracting intense interest from high-end users.

Retro-focused devices with OLED displays: 'Retroid Pocket Nova' and 'AYANEO Pocket MICRO 2'

In the retro gaming handheld market, the introduction of premium models that prioritize display quality and build quality continues.

Retroid has begun accepting pre-orders for its new Android handheld, the 'Retroid Pocket Nova'. Its biggest feature is the 4.5-inch AMOLED display with a 4:3 aspect ratio (960p resolution, 120Hz refresh rate). It uses Qualcomm's QCS8550 SoC, providing performance that comfortably runs PS2 and GameCube-class titles, while maintaining a competitive starting price of $229. Shipping is scheduled for August.

Additionally, AYANEO officially released the 'AYANEO Pocket MICRO 2' on June 26. Marketed as a 'next-generation mini horizontal retro gaming powerhouse,' it goes beyond simple spec upgrades to improve the overall experience, including design, operability, and battery life.

These trends suggest that the current retro handheld market is shifting from a simple competition of processing power to a phase of enhancing the quality of the play experience itself, through the adoption of OLED panels and improved chassis build quality.