Ayaneo has officially revealed the Pocket VERT, a high-end vertical handheld tailored for retro gaming enthusiasts. The announcement was made by CEO Arthur during a live stream that showcased the device’s design, key specifications, live gameplay, and exclusive perks for early supporters. Pre-orders for the Pocket VERT have opened at $269, with early bird pricing available through IGG Pre-launch registration. The device has drawn attention for combining collectible value with premium design and functionality.
The Pocket VERT features a minimalist design philosophy with precision craftsmanship. Its full-metal CNC body, complemented by an integrated glass front panel, ensures durability while maintaining a refined appearance. Measuring 86.4 mm x 143 mm x 20.5 mm, the handheld is compact and portable. The 3.5-inch LCD offers a 1600×1440 resolution with 615 PPI and 450 nits peak brightness, delivering detailed visuals suitable for retro pixel art and modern Android games alike. The device comes in three colors—Eternal Night Black, Lunar White, and Lava Red—providing a collectible aesthetic for gaming enthusiasts.
Pocket VERT introduces full-body unmarked buttons, combining clean design with responsive tactile feedback. The handheld includes a classic Japanese-style D-pad, ABXY buttons, and diamond-cut shoulder keys. A hidden dual-mode touchpad enhances gameplay flexibility, while the MagicSwitch dial allows quick access to menus, volume adjustments, and mute functions. Each unit also comes with “Star Vein” shoulder keys, designed with layered textures and anti-slip surfaces for precise control during extended play sessions.
The handheld is powered by the first-generation Snapdragon 8+ mobile platform, featuring a 4 nm TSMC process, an eight-core architecture, and Adreno 730 GPU. Combined with an active air-cooling system, the Pocket VERT delivers stable performance for retro and modern games. A 6000mAh battery ensures extended play, while stereo speakers provide rich audio. Additional features include a fingerprint-enabled power button, full-function Type-C, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, and a microSD slot for expanded storage.
Ayaneo’s proprietary Android software ecosystem enhances the user experience. AYASpace organizes retro games and imports, AYAHome allows customization of icons and layout, and AYASetting provides device optimization, key mapping, and performance controls. This combination ensures an intuitive and versatile handheld experience.
The Pocket VERT supports accessories such as leather and silicone carrying cases, screen protectors, and a dedicated stand. These enhancements complement the device’s design while offering practical functionality. With its combination of premium design, high-resolution display, innovative controls, and software ecosystem, the Pocket VERT positions itself as a collectible handheld for dedicated retro gaming fans.
