The retro gaming world is buzzing with anticipation for Anbernic's next big release, the uniquely designed RG DS. After a week of speculation and leaks, the veil has been pulled back even further, not by a shadowy insider, but seemingly by Anbernic itself. The company has all but confirmed the core hardware of the Nintendo DS-lookalike, leaving fans to piece together the final puzzle before its official debut.
For reasons known only to them, Anbernic has been playing its cards close to the chest regarding the RG DS's internal components. However, in a move that has the community talking, the company appears to have inadvertently published the device's full specification sheet on its own website, a detail quickly spotted and shared by popular tech investigator Joey's Retro Handhelds.
This discovery confirms the earlier rumors and gives us our clearest picture yet of what to expect from this intriguing new handheld.
The Heart of the Machine: Rockchip Power Confirmed
The leaked specifications solidify that the Anbernic RG DS will be powered by the Rockchip RK3566 system-on-a-chip (SoC). This is a notable choice, as Anbernic has recently favored more powerful MediaTek or Unisoc chips in its Android-based devices like the RG556.
The RK3566 is a well-known and reliable workhorse in the single-board computer and emulator space. It features:
- CPU: A quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 configuration, clocked at up to 2.0 GHz.
- GPU: A Mali-G52 MP2 GPU, capable of handling a wide range of classic systems.
While not a top-tier mobile chip by today's standards, the RK3566 is a proven emulation performer, particularly for consoles up to and including the PlayStation Portable (PSP) and Nintendo DS itself. Its efficiency is a key advantage for a device focused on portability and battery life.
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Complete Anbernic RG DS Specifications
Beyond the core processor, the leaked data provides a comprehensive look at the RG DS's build:
- Memory: 3GB of LPDDR4/LPDDR4X RAM, a comfortable amount for Android 14 and most emulation tasks.
- Storage: 32GB of built-in eMMC storage, expandable via a microSD card slot for those extensive game libraries.
- Battery: A substantial 4,000 mAh battery is promised, with Anbernic rating it for up to 6 hours of continuous gameplay.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2 are on board for multiplayer gaming, internet features, and connecting wireless controllers or headphones.
- Operating System: The device will ship with Android 14 out of the box, offering access to a vast ecosystem of emulators on the Google Play Store and beyond.
The Main Attraction: Dual 4-Inch IPS Displays
The defining feature of the RG DS is, of course, its dual-screen setup. The specifications confirm it will sport two 4-inch IPS displays, each with a resolution of 480p. These are believed to be the same high-quality panels used in the popular Anbernic RG40XX H, ensuring excellent viewing angles and color reproduction.
This design makes the RG DS an instantly compelling option for fans of the Nintendo DS and 3DS, as it provides an authentic dual-screen experience for those libraries without relying on screen-sharing or awkward windowing.
Pricing, Availability, and What's Next
Anbernic has previously teased that the RG DS will launch for under $100, a remarkably aggressive price point for a dual-screen Android handheld. With the specifications now effectively public, a full global announcement is expected imminently.
While an exact launch date remains unconfirmed, the fact that product images and specifications are being populated on Anbernic's official website is a strong indicator that the retail launch is just around the corner. The retro gaming community is watching closely, and you can follow sources like Joey's Retro Handhelds on Bluesky for the very latest updates as they happen.
For those looking for a current dual-screen alternative, the Anbernic RG40XX H is available now. You can check its latest price and availability on Amazon.
The Anbernic RG DS is shaping up to be a unique and budget-friendly entry into the world of retro handhelds, promising a dedicated and authentic way to relive the dual-screen classics of yesteryear. All signs point to its arrival being just weeks, if not days, away.
