Handheld PC maker Ayaneo unveils smartphone with slide-out controller

How many times have we seen a company try to turn a smartphone into a gaming console? We’ve seen a lot of developments in smartphones over the years, including the recent emergence of tri-fold phones, but for a company that makes handheld gaming PCs to make a phone? Well, at least that wasn't what I expected or would ever think was plausible or feasible. Ayaneo did exactly that. They just debuted its first smartphone, and it’s a dedicated gaming device with a slide-out controller. This article will discuss everything about the latest Ayaneo Pocket Play, including its price in Nepal (rumored), specifications, and availability.

Ayaneo Pocket Play Overview

Design and Physical Controls

The core pitch here is the sliding form factor. When closed, the Pocket Play looks like a standard, premium-built smartphone, available in Black and White. The whole point is to have a dedicated gamepad integrated right into the device, not an external clip-on you have to carry around.

Similarly, sliding the screen up reveals the control deck. You get the full complement: a D-pad, ABXY action buttons, and four shoulder buttons (L1, L2, R1, R2). But the most interesting choice is replacing analog joysticks with two circular touchpads. That design instantly reminds me of the Sony Xperia Play. It keeps the device incredibly slim and pocketable, but it makes me wonder if sacrificing proper thumbsticks is worth it for the unique form factor? Anyway, the dual rear cameras remain visible even when the phone is fully open in gaming mode.

• Also, read

• Ultima Atom Buds 2 Launched in Nepal with 120H Playtime and ANC

• iPhone 17 vs OnePlus 15 Review: Which one should you buy?

Performance and Software

Ayaneo has only confirmed a few essential details, but the device is clearly running an Android operating system. This is important because it opens the door to both the massive modern mobile game library and, just as importantly for Ayaneo's audience, a huge collection of emulation titles.

Considering Ayaneo's pedigree in high-end handhelds, we expect them to pack a top-tier Snapdragon G-series or 8-series chip inside to handle demanding modern games; anything less would undermine the entire "gaming-first" purpose of the physical controls. Similarly, it includes standard features like stereo speakers and a USB-C port, but details like RAM and battery capacity are yet to be disclosed. 

Ayaneo Pocket Play Price in Nepal and Availability

Ayaneo has not announced pricing or a specific release date for the Pocket Play. It’s hard to predict the cost of a device that is essentially a flagship gaming handheld combined with a high-end Android phone. We will update once we get the information. Stay tuned!

• Meanwhile, check out our review of the OnePlus 15 vs. the iPhone 17