AYANEO, a company specializing in premium handheld gaming devices, has opened pre-orders for its latest creation, the Pocket VERT. The Android-based console aims to redefine retro gaming with a high-end build and powerful internals capable of emulating everything from classic Game Boy titles to PlayStation 2 games. Priced starting at $269, the Pocket VERT enters a crowded but growing market of portable emulation devices, distinguished by its unique features like a built-in fingerprint reader and a customizable “MagicTouch” touchpad. The device’s launch, however, is slated for February 2026, a date that follows a pattern of past delays experienced by the manufacturer.
AYANEO has begun accepting pre-orders for the Pocket VERT, a new Android-based handheld gaming console that draws inspiration from the classic Game Boy but significantly surpasses it in terms of technology and performance. The device aims to cater to a growing market of retro gaming enthusiasts seeking a premium experience.
The company, known for its high-end handhelds, is positioning the Pocket VERT as a luxury offering, both in its build materials and its capabilities. It’s a notable step in the evolution of retro-inspired consoles, which have seen a surge in popularity in recent years.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 system-on-a-chip, the Pocket VERT is designed to emulate classic consoles with ease, and also handle more demanding titles like those from the GameCube and PlayStation 2. AYANEO suggests that, with some adjustments, even Nintendo Switch games are playable. The console features a 3.5-inch, 1600×1440 pixel LCD display, offering a tenfold upscale for original Game Boy games, enhanced with modern shaders for a visually striking experience.
The Pocket VERT’s chassis is CNC-machined metal, with diamond-cut shoulder buttons. The faceplate incorporates a transparent D-pad and unlabeled buttons, complemented by a unique control element: a MagicSwitch scroll wheel for quick system settings adjustments. Hidden beneath the buttons is a full-width “MagicTouch” touchpad, which can function as a mouse for DOS games, an analog stick replacement, or even two virtual sticks.
A 6000 mAh battery powers the console, and the power button integrates a fingerprint reader. The device features downward-firing speakers due to its all-glass front panel, but retains a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. Pre-orders are available through the Indiegogo platform, with the base model – equipped with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage – priced at $269. A configuration with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage starts at $349. A special “Lava Red” colorway is available at an additional cost, and prices are expected to increase after the early bird period.
AYANEO currently anticipates shipping the Pocket VERT in early February 2026, though the company has experienced delays with previous product launches. The console is clearly targeted at a niche audience – those seeking a premium, modern take on retro gaming.
