Retroid showcases Retroid Pocket Flip, clamshell-style handheld

The clamshell design can be considered an iconic form factor for handheld gaming consoles, with Nintendo adopting it for the GBA SP, NDSL, and 3DS, providing larger screens while maintaining portability. In recent years, this design has been seen in niche Android handhelds. Now, Retroid has released a new device called the Retroid Pocket Flip, resembling a single-screen Android NDS.

Retroid, previously having launched several models such as the Pocket 2.5, 3, and 3.5, is well-versed in the Android handheld market, making them a top-tier producer in this niche segment. The Retroid Pocket Flip draws inspiration from Nintendo’s NDS and 3DS, with dimensions between the two and a more rounded design reminiscent of the Dopod 900 device. The console is available in various colors, with sport red and translucent red being particularly eye-catching.

Upon opening, the Retroid Pocket Flip’s screen is a 4.7-inch display with a large bezel and recessed design to avoid conflicts with the buttons when closed. Given the limited screen options for smaller manufacturers, most use outdated mobile phone screens.

Naturally, the Retroid Pocket Flip does not feature a dual-screen design. The ample space on the back allows for a simpler button layout, with the D-pad, ABXY buttons, and dual S buttons in normal positions. However, the joystick is replaced by a slide pad utilizing a Hall effect, which may not be to everyone’s liking. This time, the device includes active cooling, better suited for PS2 emulation, and a larger 5000mAh battery for extended battery life.

Other hardware specifications are similar to the Retroid Pocket 3.5, including the Unisoc T618 processor, 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, and HDMI output. Overall, the Retroid Pocket Flip is intriguing, with pre-orders starting at $149.