AYANEO Unveils Pocket Micro Classic: A Nostalgic Powerhouse for Retro Gaming Enthusiasts

AYANEO has opened pre-orders for its Pocket Micro Classic, a pocket-sized console channeling the iconic design language of 2000s-era handhelds. Tailored for retro gaming fans, the device combines sleek minimalism with smart engineering. The Pocket Micro Classic features an aluminum chassis in three colors (black, gray, gold) and a compact footprint—measuring just 15.6 cm (6.1 inches) long and weighing 227 grams (8 ounces).

Its standout design choice? No analog sticks. Instead, the console leans into a retro-inspired layout reminiscent of classic gamepads. Developers claim this move not only streamlined the hardware but also helped keep costs down. Under the hood, the device boasts an octa-core MediaTek Helio G99 chipset—a processor typically found in bulkier gadgets capable of emulating PlayStation 2 or GameCube titles. However, AYANEO isn’t chasing high-end 3D emulation. Instead, the focus is on flawless performance for classic platforms like Nintendo NES, Sega Genesis, and SNES, all running via Android 13 with the brand’s custom AYASpace interface.

Despite its modest 3.5-inch IPS screen, the console packs a sharp 960×640 resolution (330 PPI), allowing Game Boy Advance titles to render in a crisp 4:1 scale. Vivid colors and wide viewing angles give retro games a modern edge. The Classic model ditches analog sticks entirely, opting for a “pure” retro experience: a directional pad, six face buttons, shoulder triggers, and a scroll wheel for volume control. Practical features like a microSD slot, gyroscope, and vibration feedback remain, while the 2600 mAh battery delivers up to six hours of playtime.

The Pocket Micro Classic caters to gamers craving authenticity. Its powerful chip prioritizes smooth UI performance and multitasking over taxing emulation. Pre-orders are live on AYANEO’s official site, with shipping starting mid-April. The base model, offering 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, starts at $179.