Retroid targets DS emulation with $69 AMOLED add-on and Pocket Duo tease
The company is expanding its dual-screen ecosystem with a clip-on secondary display and a forthcoming integrated handheld.
Retroid is doubling down on dual-screen gaming with the launch of a specialized hardware accessory and the tease of a new standalone handheld. The move targets the growing demand for authentic Nintendo DS and 3DS emulation experiences on Android-based hardware.
The company has officially released the Retroid Dual Screen Add-on, a $69 accessory designed to clip onto existing Retroid devices. The add-on features a 5.5-inch AMOLED touchscreen display to serve as a secondary screen. To ensure usability during long sessions, the accessory includes passthrough charging and a hinge with click-stop angles of 120, 150, and 180 degrees.
The push for dual-screen hardware
This release comes amid a broader industry trend where manufacturers are revisiting the dual-screen form factor. With the recent emergence of devices like the Anbernic RG DS and Ayaneo Pocket DS, the market is shifting toward hardware that can natively handle the unique layout of Nintendo's handheld libraries. Retroid has already been diversifying its portfolio with the Pocket Nova and Pocket Flip 2, but the addition of a second screen addresses a specific technical hurdle in retro gaming: the inefficiency of simulating two screens on a single display.
Strategic market positioning
By launching both an accessory and a dedicated device, Retroid is attempting to capture two distinct segments of the enthusiast market. The $69 add-on provides a budget-friendly entry point for current owners who want to upgrade their existing hardware without purchasing a new console. Simultaneously, the teased "Pocket Duo" handheld aims for the premium market. The Pocket Duo is positioned as a direct competitor to the Ayn Thor, promising a more integrated experience.
What to expect from the Pocket Duo
Unlike the current add-on, which relies on clips and external connections, the Pocket Duo is expected to feature a cable-free and clip-free design. This suggests a fully integrated chassis that would eliminate the bulk of the accessory while providing a more seamless user experience for DS and 3DS titles.
While the Dual Screen Add-on is available now, Retroid has not yet provided a release date or full specifications for the Pocket Duo. Industry observers will be watching to see if the Duo can outperform the Ayn Thor in terms of processing power and screen integration.