Anbernic has quietly launched the RG DS worldwide after a flurry of last-minute leaks, opening pre-orders for its budget-friendly, dual-screen handheld designed to capture the feel of classic Nintendo DS gaming. While the reveal came without advance notice, the company confirms shipping won’t begin until December, with pre-orders scheduled to go out in sequence before December 15, 2025.
To show what the dual displays can do, Anbernic published a demo highlighting two key use cases: running each screen independently or pairing both for authentic Nintendo DS-style gameplay. Stylus input is supported, and Anbernic now says the RG DS can emulate titles that rely on gyro and microphone controls—features often missing from cheaper emulation handhelds. The device also works with the Nintendo 3DS comic app, letting readers view pages across both displays for a more natural, book-like layout.
Under the hood, the RG DS blends familiar hardware from the RG40XX lineup with a more capable chipset. It features two 4-inch screens drawn from the RG40XX series, a Rockchip RK3568 processor for smoother emulation performance, and a 4,000 mAh battery to keep sessions going on the move. The headline appeal is the price: despite its dual-display design and expanded input support, the RG DS lands in the sub-$100 bracket.
In short, Anbernic’s RG DS targets retro fans who want a portable, two-screen experience without breaking the bank. With stylus, gyro, and mic support on board and shipping slated before mid-December, it’s shaping up to be one of the most intriguing budget handhelds for DS-era gaming and comic reading on the go.
