#handheld gaming

Ayaneo has shared new details about its upcoming gaming-focused smartphone, the Ayaneo Pocket Play, offering a closer look at the device’s display ahead of its planned 2026 release. Known primarily for its handheld gaming consoles, Ayaneo is making its first move into the smartphone market with a design that draws inspiration from the classic Sony Xperia Play. One of its standout features is a 165Hz refresh rate, placing it in the same visual performance territory as dedicated gaming phones like the ASUS ROG Phone 9 FE. This approach is familiar territory for the company, which has previously used crowdfunding to introduce many of its gaming devices. With its high-refresh OLED panel and a clear focus on gaming ergonomics, the Ayaneo Pocket Play is shaping up to be a unique entry in the gaming smartphone space. As with most niche gaming devices, its eventual pricing will likely play a key role in determining its appeal to a wider audience. The handhelds and have Windows 11 in their system meaning that not only does it support PC games, but apps such as Discord and Twitch can be installed. Xbox has stated that the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds will arrive in the holidays of this year. Read more in our articles including "Ayaneo Confirms Pocket Play Display Specs as It Prepares First Gaming Phone" and "Xbox announces ROG Xbox Ally handhelds".