Ayaneo Launches Its First Smartphone with a Built-In Slide-Out Gamepad

Ayaneo, a company best known for its high-performance handheld gaming PCs, has taken an unexpected step into the smartphone market with the launch of its very first mobile device, the Ayaneo Pocket Play. This innovative phone stands out due to its built-in slide-out controller, designed specifically for gaming.

When closed, the Pocket Play resembles a typical premium smartphone, available in black and white finishes. However, sliding the screen upward transforms the device, revealing a full set of gaming controls including a D-pad, ABXY action buttons, L1, L2, R1, and R2 shoulder buttons. A unique feature is the replacement of traditional analog joysticks with two circular touchpads, a design choice that echoes the Sony Xperia Play and keeps the device slim while raising questions about whether the trade-off is worthwhile for gamers.

The phone is expected to run on Android, opening access to a vast library of modern mobile games and emulation titles, which aligns well with Ayaneo’s target audience. While the company has not confirmed exact hardware details, the device is likely to feature a top-tier Qualcomm Snapdragon processor to meet the demands of serious gaming. Standard features such as stereo speakers and a USB-C port are included, though information on RAM and battery capacity remains undisclosed.

Ayaneo has not yet announced the price or specific release date for the Pocket Play. Given its hybrid nature as both a flagship smartphone and a dedicated gaming handheld, estimating its cost is challenging. Readers are advised to stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.