AYANEO is back in the spotlight with an exciting update for gaming enthusiasts. The company has announced a re-release of its popular Android gaming handheld, the Pocket EVO. This time, it’s equipped with a stunning 165 Hz AMOLED display. But there’s more to this story than just a fancy new screen.
Earlier this year, AYANEO teased a fresh version of the Pocket EVO, sparking curiosity and anticipation among gamers. The original model, which was never fully released, had impressive specs like a 7-inch 1080p AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, a Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chipset, and a large 8,600 mAh battery. These specs were designed to offer a seamless gaming experience, but it seems the company decided to hold back and instead surprise fans with an enhanced version.
The new Pocket EVO retains much of the original’s hardware but introduces a significant upgrade: a display that can now reach a refresh rate of 165 Hz. This is a notable jump from the 120 Hz of the previous version. The increased refresh rate promises smoother gameplay and a more responsive touch experience, which is crucial for fast-paced action games and high-intensity graphics.
Interestingly, AYANEO has been tight-lipped about what really differentiates this version from the original, aside from the upgraded screen. This has led to some confusion, especially among early backers who supported the original model through crowdfunding. The company has quietly removed references to the first Pocket EVO from its Indiegogo campaign, suggesting that it has no plans to release the initial version. Instead, the new Pocket EVO is being marketed as an entirely new device.
From a performance perspective, the Pocket EVO is a powerhouse. The Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chipset, designed specifically for gaming, offers strong performance in handling demanding titles and emulators. The device comes with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage as the base configuration, which should be sufficient for most gamers. However, for those who need more power, there are options to upgrade to 24 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. This flexibility makes the Pocket EVO suitable for gamers who want to store large game libraries and multitask efficiently.
One of the standout features of the Pocket EVO is its display. The 7-inch AMOLED screen provides vibrant colors and deep blacks, enhancing the visual quality of games. With the new 165 Hz refresh rate, the display now supports multiple refresh rate modes, including 60 Hz, 120 Hz, 144 Hz, and 165 Hz. This range allows users to customize their experience based on their needs, whether they prioritize battery life or maximum smoothness. The ability to overclock the panel beyond its original 120 Hz limit is a testament to the technical improvements AYANEO has implemented.
Battery life is another critical aspect for any handheld gaming device, and AYANEO hasn’t skimped in this department. The Pocket EVO is equipped with an 8,600 mAh battery, which should provide several hours of uninterrupted gameplay. While the exact battery performance will depend on the refresh rate setting and the intensity of the games being played, it’s clear that AYANEO aims to offer a device that can handle extended gaming sessions without needing frequent recharges.
In terms of design, the Pocket EVO retains the sleek and ergonomic form factor that made the original model appealing. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and comfortable to hold for long periods. The button layout and controls are designed to be intuitive, with responsive analog sticks and triggers that provide a satisfying tactile feel. This attention to detail ensures that the device is not only powerful but also user-friendly.
AYANEO’s decision to re-release the Pocket EVO with upgraded specs is a smart move. It shows the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of gamers. However, the handling of the original model’s discontinuation has left some fans feeling disappointed. The sudden removal of references to the first version and the lack of communication regarding the changes have raised questions about transparency. It’s important for companies to maintain trust with their customer base, especially in the competitive world of gaming technology.
Despite these concerns, the new Pocket EVO is poised to be a strong contender in the handheld gaming market. Its competitive pricing, starting at $389 for the base model, makes it accessible to a wide range of gamers. The option to upgrade to higher specifications allows it to compete with more expensive devices. Compared to other handhelds like the AYN Odin2, which is currently priced at $449, the Pocket EVO offers similar performance with the added benefit of a higher refresh rate display.
As AYANEO prepares to ship the new Pocket EVO units in November 2024, anticipation is building. The device is expected to be a popular choice for gamers looking for a portable, high-performance gaming experience. Whether you’re into retro gaming through emulators or modern Android titles, the Pocket EVO promises to deliver smooth and immersive gameplay.
