Anbernic Announces RG Rotate: A Unique Handheld with a Rotating Screen
Preorders begin May 11, 2025, at 6 AM ET, with Early Bird pricing available for the first 72 hours.
Anbernic has officially unveiled its latest handheld gaming device, the RG Rotate, which is defined by its novel rotating screen design. The device is set to launch via the company’s online store, with full specifications and pricing now available through official channels and an unboxing video.
Hardware & Design
The RG Rotate is a vertical handheld featuring a rotating hinge. A built-in Hall sensor enables a "wake-on-open" feature, allowing the device to power on as it is opened. Buyers can choose from two distinct material builds:
- Polar Black: Metal front with a plastic shell
- Aurora Silver: Full CNC aluminum alloy body
Key Physical Specs:
- Dimensions: 80 x 80 x 21 mm
- Weight: 167 grams (Polar Black) / 204 grams (Aurora Silver)
- Display: 3.5-inch square LCD touchscreen, 720x720 resolution, 1:1 aspect ratio, 60Hz refresh rate, 290.92 PPI
- Processor: Unisoc T618 Octa-core CPU
- GPU: Mali-G52 MP2
- RAM: 3GB
- Storage: 32GB internal, expandable via microSD
- Battery: 2000mAh (estimated 5 hours of use)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
- Audio: Mono rear speaker; USB-C audio support; Bluetooth headphone support
Controls & Features
The control layout is designed for versatility. A D-pad sits on the top left, accompanied by analog triggers and swappable inner L2/R2 shoulder buttons with a raised design. The device runs on Android 12, and includes a dedicated MP3 Player Mode—when closed, it can function as a Bluetooth audio player.
Display & Emulation
The square 1:1 aspect ratio screen is a highlight for retro gamers. Game Boy and Game Boy Color titles fill nearly the entire display, while games from TV-connected consoles (e.g., NES) or the Game Boy Advance will appear with borders. According to Anbernic, the RG Rotate can emulate games from over 30 platforms, including N64, PS1, and select GameCube, Wii, PS2, and 3DS titles.
Pricing & Availability
Preorders open on May 11, 2025, at 6 AM ET. According to a report from Retro Dodo, expected pricing is as follows:
- Polar Black (ABS plastic): $87.99 (Early Bird: $82.99 for 72 hours)
- Aurora Silver (CNC aluminum alloy): $107.99 (Early Bird: $99.99 for 72 hours)
Note: Anbernic has not publicly confirmed the final pricing or release date.