AYN Thor Unveiled A Snapdragon-based Clamshell to Take Down the Ayaneo Pocket DS
Demand for handheld gaming is heating up now that AYN Technologies has unveiled AYN Thor. This official showcasing of AYN's own dual-screen, clamshell Android gaming system seems to be more of a strategic response by AYN to the global release of the Ayaneo Pocket DS, inferring a rivalrous potential against Ayaneo in the realm of portable emulation.
Rebirth of a Classic Form Factor
The clamshell style, long established with Nintendo's DS and 3DS consoles, is on a reclaim. It provides built-in screen protection and yields a unique pocketable shape that many gamers will find a nostalgic and practical choice. With the Thor release, AYN strongly believes that there is serious demand for dual-screen retro and Android gaming beyond the one-screen standard subliminalism of handhelds.
The AYN Thor What We Know So Far
Key features of the AYN Thor had been outlined in the first video reveal:
- Form Factor: A dual-display clamshell design, with secondary screen for playing, which is flanked by controls at the bottom.
- Processor: A Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset has been confirmed.
- Cooling System: Active cooling (fan) is present, hence the device seems designed for longer gaming and emulation sessions while not being subjected to thermal throttling.
- Audio: Speakers are used that fire upwards towards the user, in order to ensure that audio reaches the user more directly.
- Design Details: RGB lighting is programmed for the joysticks, and it has 3.5mm and USB Type-C ports located at the bottom.
Fast Onset and Direct Response
The fast-paced approach to Thor's reveal by AYN is an interesting move strategically. Instead of allowing Ayaneo to set the tone for the discussion about dual-screen Android gaming, AYN moved promptly to present a counteract. This shows an agility and awareness of the competitive landscape while capitalizing on the brand value generated by its successful handheld series, Odin.
What Is Still Unanswered
While the intial hype surrounding the announcement stands strong, AYN has not yet released any concrete information regarding the screen sizes, screen resolutions, exact Snapdragon model in use, battery capacity, pricing, or possible release dates. Such information will matter a lot in determining how Thor really stacks up against its competitors. For now, the announcement stands as quite a strong statement of intent into the ever-changing world of portable gaming.
