Anbernic unveils RG DDS dual-screen handheld for 3DS games

Anbernic has announced a new dual‑screen handheld, the RG DDS, that mirrors the Nintendo 3DS in size and shape. The device features a 4.7‑inch main display with a 5:3 aspect ratio and a 4‑inch secondary screen with a 4:3 ratio, matching the native resolution of most 3DS titles. Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G2 Gen 2, the RG DDS can emulate games from the Switch and PlayStation 2, and it comes with a 6,000‑mAh battery. The company kept the price and release date under wraps, but the hardware suggests a higher cost than its $99 predecessor, the RG DS.

The RG DDS follows a year after Anbernic teased a remake of the Nintendo DS. The new model builds on the RG DS’s clamshell design but adds a modern processor and improved battery life. The move comes as retro‑gaming handhelds grow in popularity, with consumers seeking affordable ways to play classic titles on the go. Anbernic’s focus on compatibility with 3DS games positions the RG DDS as a niche but appealing option for fans of the handheld’s legacy.

Inside the device, the two screens are paired with a layout that closely resembles the 3DS. The main panel runs at 1,200 × 720 pixels, while the bottom screen is 960 × 720. Controls mirror the original: two analog sticks, directional pad, face buttons, and triggers. An extra analog stick on the right side adds a modern touch. A capacitive stylus is built into the case and can be removed when not needed. Anbernic also mentioned a dedicated AI button, though it has not yet revealed its function.

Pricing and launch details remain undisclosed, but Anbernic’s reputation for affordable devices suggests the RG DDS could be priced above the RG DS yet below competitors like the Retroid Pocket Duo Lite, which starts at $149. If the handheld delivers on its promise of accurate 3DS aspect ratios and strong emulation, it could capture a segment of gamers who want a portable, budget‑friendly way to revisit 3DS classics. The next steps for the company will likely involve finalizing the internal specifications and securing a release window, which could see the RG DDS hit shelves later this year.