UPDATE 28/12/25: Ayaneo has released system specs for the Pocket Vert, added below.
Ayaneo has dropped something a little unexpected — the Pocket Vert, a new handheld console with a vertical screen orientation and compact design. The announcement came via the official Ayaneo Twitter feed, accompanied by a reveal video showcasing the device in action, and just days after news of the Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini.
What the Pocket Vert brings to the table
The standout feature is the vertical display. Instead of the usual landscape layout found on almost every handheld, the Pocket Vert flips the orientation — more akin to old arcade cabinets or mobile shoot-’em-ups than the typical gaming handheld.
In the video, the device is shown handling vertical-format games with ease, complete with physical joysticks and buttons that look suitably chunky for serious play. Ayaneo’s X post teases the device clearly, showing off a sleek chassis, edge-to-edge screen, and describing it as a “premium collectible for retro gamers.”
Given Ayaneo’s track record with high-spec handhelds such as the Pocket Air series, this vertical design feels like a bold move aimed at standing out in an increasingly crowded market.
Why this matters for retro and handheld gamers
For retro gamers, the vertical layout is vital for playing certain games. Many arcade shooters and bullet-hell games were designed for tall displays, so a handheld built around that format means fewer black bars and more authentic gameplay.
The early spec details for the Pocket Vert are:
- CNC-machined body with exquisite craftsmanship.
- Diamond-cut shoulder buttons — elegant and comfortable.
- Refined lines reflect unique style and taste.
- 3.5″ LCD, 1600×1440, 615 PPI
Ayaneo describe it as the “clearest screen ever on an Android handheld.”
If the Pocket Vert delivers Ayaneo’s usual build quality and performance, it could become the go-to handheld for vertically-oriented classics and arcade-style shooters that don’t quite fit modern widescreen layouts.
What we still don’t know
Ayaneo hasn’t yet shared technical specs or pricing for the Pocket Vert. We’re still waiting on details such as screen size, chipset, and battery life. Ergonomics could also be a concern — will the tall layout work comfortably for long sessions, or will it limit the device’s versatility beyond vertical games?
On the software side, support for emulators and vertical display mapping will be crucial. Without proper software integration, the concept could risk being more style than substance.
Ayaneo Pocket Vert system specs (UPDATE 28/12/25)
The confirmed spec for this handheld is:
- 3.5″ LCD with a 1600 x 1440 resolution, 615 PPI
- Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, 1+3+4 Octa-Core Adreno 730
- 8GB/12GB RAM options
- 128GB/256GB storage options
- 6,000mAh batter
- Active Air-Cooling System
- Standard D-pad and ABXY buttons are complemented with a hidden touchpad
Meanwhile, pricing options are currently
- 8GB + 128GB – $269 Early Bird, $339 Retail pricing – Black and White
- 12GB + 256GB – $349 Early Bird, $419 Retail pricing – Black and White
- 12GB + 256GB – $369 Early Bird, $439 Retail pricing – Lava Red
Consoles ship with screen protector and cloth, and optional stand and cases can be added to the order when it goes live.
The bottom line
The Ayaneo Pocket Vert might be one of the most intriguing handheld announcements of the year, precisely because it dares to do something different. For retro fans and shoot-’em-up enthusiasts, this design could be a dream come true — a handheld that finally fits the games they love, rather than the other way around.
If Ayaneo can balance performance, comfort, and clever software design, the Pocket Vert could end up being one of 2026’s most distinctive handhelds. Keep an eye on ayaneo.com for details.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
