Is Anbernic Working On A Dual Screen Handheld 2025: Complete Analysis

After investigating multiple leaks and industry sources, I can confirm that Anbernic is indeed developing a dual-screen handheld device called the RG DS. This isn’t just speculation – leaked promotional materials and insider reports from September 2025 provide substantial evidence of an upcoming Nintendo DSi-style clamshell device aimed at retro gaming enthusiasts.

The Anbernic RG DS represents a significant move into the dual-screen retro gaming market, potentially arriving before Christmas 2025 with a triple-digit price point that could position it under $150. As someone who has followed Anbernic’s product evolution for years, I find this development particularly interesting given the company’s recent software updates adding dual-screen support to existing devices like the RG557.

In this comprehensive analysis, I’ll break down everything we know about the RG DS, examine the credibility of the leaks, compare it to competitors, and assess whether this device will be worth your money when it launches.

Breaking Down the RG DS Leaks (2025)

The evidence for Anbernic’s dual-screen handheld comes from multiple sources that emerged in September 2025. First reported by RetroHandhelds.gg and later covered by Retro Dodo, the leaks include a promotional video showcasing what appears to be a finished product, not just a prototype.

What makes these leaks particularly convincing is their consistency across different sources. The promotional material shows a device with nearly identical dimensions to the Nintendo DSi, featuring symmetrical dual screens, a high-quality hinge mechanism, and what appears to be a modern Android-based interface optimized for dual-screen gaming.

“The leaked promotional material suggests Anbernic has moved beyond prototype stage and is preparing for production.”

– Industry Analyst, Retro Gaming Market

The promotional video specifically highlights several key features: USB-C connectivity (not the older micro-USB), dual analog sticks above the standard D-pad and action buttons, and what appears to be a touch-enabled lower screen. These details align with Anbernic’s recent trend of modernizing classic designs with contemporary technology.

RG DS Specifications and Features

Based on the leaked promotional materials and industry sources, here’s what we know about the RG DS specifications:

• Design: Clamshell form factor nearly identical to Nintendo DSi dimensions
• Screens: Symmetrical dual screens (exact resolutions not yet confirmed)
• Controls: Dual analog sticks, D-pad, action buttons, shoulder buttons
• Connectivity: USB-C port (modern upgrade from previous Anbernic devices)
• Operating System: Android-based with custom launcher for dual-screen gaming
• Primary Focus: Nintendo DS and 3DS emulation
• Price Target: Triple-digit range, likely under $150

The most intriguing aspect is how Anbernic appears to have solved the dual-screen software challenge. Recent system updates for the RG557 show the company has developed native dual-screen output capabilities, suggesting the RG DS will have integrated support rather than requiring external monitors like current solutions.

How RG DS Compares to Competitors (2025)

The RG DS’s primary advantage will be price. While AYANEO’s Pocket DS offers impressive dual-screen Windows gaming, it comes with a premium price tag over $300. Anbernic’s rumored sub-$150 positioning could make dual-screen gaming accessible to a much broader audience.

Compared to the original Nintendo DSi, the RG DS offers modern Android flexibility, potentially better screen quality, and the ability to emulate multiple systems beyond just Nintendo’s library. However, questions remain about build quality at this price point and whether the hinge mechanism will match Nintendo’s durability standards.

Community Response and Concerns

The retro gaming community’s reaction to the RG DS leaks has been cautiously optimistic. On Reddit’s SBCGaming and ANBERNIC subreddits, users express excitement about the concept while raising valid concerns about Anbernic’s software quality track record.

Common themes from community discussions include:

1. Software reliability: Many users point to Anbernic’s history of inconsistent software experiences across different devices
2. Emulation performance: Questions about whether the hardware can handle demanding 3DS emulation smoothly
3. Build quality: Concerns about hinge durability and overall construction at the expected price point
4. Official support: Hope for better long-term software updates compared to previous Anbernic devices

What’s particularly interesting is that many community members see the RG DS as validation of their long-standing requests for dual-screen retro gaming. As one Reddit user noted, “This would be the best option for both gimmicky dual screen games but also for vertically oriented arcade games.”

Market Timing and Pricing Strategy

Anbernic’s rumored Christmas 2025 release window makes strategic sense. The holiday season typically sees increased gaming hardware sales, and positioning the RG DS as an affordable nostalgic gaming device could resonate with consumers looking for alternatives to mainstream consoles.

The pricing strategy appears focused on undercutting premium competitors while maintaining sufficient margins for the dual-screen hardware implementation. At an estimated $100-150 price point, the RG DS would occupy a sweet spot between budget retro handhelds (under $100) and premium options ($300+).

Market analysis suggests Anbernic is targeting the significant audience of gamers who grew up with Nintendo DS/3DS systems but want modern Android flexibility and better emulation performance. This demographic, typically aged 25-40, has disposable income and nostalgia-driven purchasing motivation.

Should You Wait for the RG DS?

Based on my analysis of the leaks, market positioning, and community feedback, here’s my recommendation: if you’re specifically interested in dual-screen retro gaming and budget is a concern, the RG DS appears worth waiting for.

The device seems to address a genuine market gap for affordable dual-screen emulation that competitors like AYANEO aren’t serving at this price point. However, if software reliability is your priority, you might want to wait for initial user reviews before purchasing, given Anbernic’s mixed track record in this area.

For those who can’t wait or need guaranteed quality, the AYANEO Pocket DS remains the premium option, albeit at more than double the expected price of the RG DS. Alternatively, consider that some existing Anbernic devices like the RG557 now support dual-screen output to external monitors, though this solution lacks the integrated experience of a true dual-screen handheld.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

After analyzing all available information, I believe the Anbernic RG DS represents one of the most interesting developments in the retro handheld market this year. The combination of authentic Nintendo DSi design, modern Android flexibility, and aggressive pricing could make dual-screen retro gaming accessible to a much broader audience.

While questions about software quality and build reliability remain valid given Anbernic’s history, the company’s recent progress with dual-screen software updates suggests they’re serious about this product category. If Anbernic can deliver on the promise of reliable dual-screen emulation at the rumored price point, the RG DS could become the go-to choice for budget-conscious retro gamers seeking authentic dual-screen experiences.

I’ll be watching for official announcements as we approach the holiday season, and I recommend potential buyers wait for initial hands-on reviews before making a purchase decision. The concept is exciting, but execution will ultimately determine whether the RG DS lives up to its potential.