Ayaneo, known for its retro-style gaming handhelds, has finally revealed the design of its first Android smartphone and it’s a nostalgic throwback. Called the Ayaneo Pocket Play, the device pays clear homage to the iconic 2011 Sony Ericsson Xperia Play, a phone that blended smartphone functionality with a slide-out gaming controller.
A Slide-Up Screen With Full Physical Gaming Controls
One of the biggest highlights of the Pocket Play is its slide-up display, which reveals a full set of gaming controls underneath. When you slide the screen upward, you’ll find:
- A D-pad
- ABXY face buttons
- Two circular touchpads
- Dual shoulder buttons at the back
It’s designed to feel like a true handheld console — something gamers have been missing since the original Xperia Play disappeared from the market.
However, one classic feature is missing:
There’s no 3.5mm headphone jack, hinting that Ayaneo expects players to go wireless.
Still No Specs — Just a Promise of “Coming Soon”
While the design has finally been unveiled, Ayaneo hasn’t shared:
- Chipset
- RAM
- Storage
- Battery size
- Screen specs
- Price
The company only says the device is “coming soon,” and its Kickstarter page reveals zero technical details at this time.
A Sleeker Alternative to Other Retro Gaming Phones
The Ayaneo Pocket Play is the second Xperia Play-style device to be teased in 2025, following Anbernic’s RG Slide. But the Pocket Play appears:
- Slimmer
- More polished
- Designed to replace your main phone, not just serve as a gaming handheld
Given this, it will almost definitely cost more than the RG Slide’s $189 price tag.
A Promising Return of Gaming-Focused Smartphones
With mobile gaming booming and many players craving physical controls, the Ayaneo Pocket Play could hit a sweet spot if it offers strong hardware and a competitive price.
For now, the Pocket Play remains a mystery with lots of hype behind it. Ayaneo says more details will be revealed “soon,” so expect full specs and pricing in the coming weeks.