 |
| The Ayaneo Pocket S Mini has a similar display to the Pocket Air Mini. |
In a move that has handheld gaming enthusiasts buzzing, Ayaneo’s latest sharing session dropped a fresh wave of details on one of its most anticipated devices: the Pocket S Mini. First teased back in September 2025 with a March 2026 release window, this compact powerhouse is finally coming into clearer focus, and it’s shaping up to be a serious contender in the premium portable space.
The session confirmed several key specs and design choices, positioning the Pocket S Mini as a blend of high-end performance and nostalgic, tactile design.
 |
| The Ayaneo Pocket S Mini will be powered by the same processor as the Pocket S. |
The Display: A Classic 4:3 LCD Panel
One of the earliest confirmed features was the device’s 4:3 aspect ratio display, a beloved format for retro gaming enthusiasts. Ayaneo has now added that this screen will be an LCD panel. While the company is still playing coy about the exact screen size, it strongly hints that the dimensions will match those of the previously released Pocket Air Mini. This suggests a compact, highly portable form factor that prioritizes pocketability without sacrificing that classic gaming viewport.
Power Under the Hood: Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 Confirmed
Performance-wise, Ayaneo is leveraging proven silicon. The Pocket S Mini will be powered by the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 platform. This is the same processor that drove the well-received 6-inch Pocket S from 2024, ensuring robust performance for Android gaming, cloud streaming, and emulation. The choice signals a focus on efficiency and strong graphics capabilities in a compact thermal design. Details on RAM and storage configurations, however, remain under wraps for now.
 |
| The Ayaneo Pocket S Mini Retro Power edition has a similar color scheme to that of the Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini. |
 |
| The Ayaneo Pocket S Mini will have a metal frame. |
Premium Build and Retro Flair
Where the Pocket S Mini seems to truly shine is in its construction and design ethos. Ayaneo has committed to a full CNC metal frame, promising a solid, premium feel in the hand. For controls, they’re not cutting corners:
- RGB Hall Effect Joysticks (drift-free and customizable)
- Hall Effect Triggers (for precise analog input)
- Crystal-texture buttons for a unique tactile response.
The device will launch in three colorways: sleek Black, clean White, and a Retro Power edition that echoes the nostalgic design of the Pocket Air Mini Retro model. This special edition is sure to be a hit with collectors and fans of classic gaming aesthetics.
For a closer look at the device in action, Ayaneo showcased the Pocket S Mini's form factor and features in their latest presentation, which you can see here.
What We Still Don’t Know
Despite the juicy new details, some critical questions remain. The final price tag is arguably the biggest mystery, along with the confirmed RAM and storage options. These are make-or-break details for many potential buyers. Given Ayaneo’s pattern of communication, it’s highly likely the company will hold another sharing session in the coming months to lock down these final specs and the all-important launch price.
The Bottom Line
The Ayaneo Pocket S Mini is strategically shaping up to be a compact, premium Android-based handheld. With its classic 4:3 LCD display, powerful Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chipset, high-end Hall Effect controls, and sturdy metal build, it aims to carve out a niche for gamers seeking quality and portability. As we move closer to its March 2026 release, all eyes will be on Ayaneo to see if they can hit the perfect balance of performance, design, and price.