AYANEO Launches Pocket S Mini, Skips Crowdfunding in Shift to Direct Sales
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A new era for AYANEO begins today with the immediate availability of the Pocket S Mini, a premium handheld gaming device, marking a significant departure from the company’s historically fraught crowdfunding campaigns. The 4.2-inch device, powered by a Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 SoC, is currently available for purchase with a limited-time introductory price and a bundled gift pack.
Addressing Past Shipping Concerns
AYANEO has faced substantial criticism in recent months due to protracted delays in fulfilling orders for crowdfunded products like the Pocket DS, Pocket AIR Mini, and KONKR Pocket FIT. In early February, the company’s CEO unveiled a “Service Improvement Plan” aimed at restoring consumer confidence, with a key component being the abandonment of the crowdfunding model. This launch of the Pocket S Mini represents the first step in that plan, with simultaneous availability in both Chinese and overseas markets and equal stock allocation between the two.
Pocket S Mini: Specs and Performance
The Pocket S Mini boasts a premium design, mirroring the aesthetics of the Pocket S with an all-metal CNC frame and an all-glass front. The 4.2-inch, 4:3 LCD panel is similar to that found in the Pocket Air Mini, though AYANEO asserts improvements have been made. This resolution is particularly well-suited for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Under the hood, the handheld features a powerful Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chipset, capable of running demanding Android games at maximum settings and emulating a wide range of classic gaming systems. It’s paired with options for 8GB, 12GB, or 16GB of RAM, with the 16GB configuration exclusive to the “Retro Power” colorway. The console incorporates clear, unlabeled buttons, a design element borrowed from the Pocket VERT, and a stick layout reminiscent of the Pocket ACE.
Pricing and Availability
The Pocket S Mini is available in three configurations:
- 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage: $319
- 12GB RAM + 256GB Storage: $399
- 16GB RAM + 512GB Storage: $479
These prices are considered early-bird specials, valid through the end of February. After February, prices will increase by $80 per model. Early purchasers will also receive a gift pack including a carry case, joystick caps, retro-gaming stickers, and a cleaning cloth.
Shipping Timeline and Accessory Availability
AYANEO is prioritizing shipments before the Chinese New Year, a period when the country’s logistics networks effectively halt for several weeks. Orders placed after February 10 will not ship until after February 26. To mitigate further potential delays, the company has temporarily suspended sales of certain accessories. According to a company release, early orders are expected to ship within the next 7-10 days.
Competition in the Compact Handheld Market
The Pocket S Mini enters a competitive landscape, facing off against other compact gaming handhelds. These include AYANEO’s own Pocket ACE, the all-metal ANBERNIC RG 477M, and the more affordable ANBERNIC RG 476H. Notably, the AYN Odin 2 Mini, another powerful competitor, has been discontinued.
The AYANEO Pocket S Mini is available for purchase now on the company’s official website, signaling a new, more direct approach to product delivery for the gaming handheld manufacturer.
