Anbernic Officially Announces RG DS: Affordable Nintendo DS-Style Handheld Confirmed After Recent Leaks

Anbernic, a prominent name in the retro gaming hardware market, has officially unveiled the RG DS—an affordable handheld console heavily inspired by the iconic Nintendo DS.

This announcement confirms previous leaks from September 2025 that suggested a dual-screen device was in the works, marking Anbernic's latest foray into emulation hardware modeled after classic Nintendo systems. The newly released announcement video expands on the content seen in the earlier leaked footage.

Notably, the RG DS will be available in four distinct colors: red, blue, transparent, and white.

Addressing earlier reports, Anbernic also confirmed that the device is targeting affordability, with a retail price set to be under $100.

This pricing strategy positions the RG DS as an accessible option for retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors drawn to Nintendo DS-style hardware. While specific technical specifications such as the chipset remain undisclosed, Anbernic has actively engaged its social media community, encouraging fans to speculate about the hardware components.

The company has assured followers that a full technical breakdown is forthcoming and has promised to share more details in future updates. The resurgence of dual-screen emulation handhelds continues to be a noticeable trend within the gaming community.

Over the years, the market has seen waves of devices replicating the form factor of classic systems like the PS Vita, Game Boy Advance, and most notably, the Nintendo DS and 3DS.

With the introduction of the RG DS, Anbernic appears to be delivering one of the closest hardware homages yet to Nintendo’s famous dual-screen family, offering modern capabilities like two analogue sticks, dual USB-C ports, and an essential MicroSD card slot for expanding storage. Conversations around the authenticity of early leaks were stoked by the presence of an AI-generated image watermark, specifically the Google Gemini mark, on an image of the device circulating online.

Industry sources, including Retro Handhelds, noted this as a confirmation that initial leaks were based in part on AI-generated content.

Nonetheless, the trend of dual-screen emulation handhelds, combined with Anbernic's track record of innovation in the space, lent credibility to the rumors well before the company’s official announcement. Anbernic has built a reputation for delivering accessible and feature-rich handheld gaming devices that appeal to retro gaming fans worldwide.

As more details about the RG DS’s internals, launch timelines, and availability are revealed, the device is likely to spark continued interest among collectors and Nintendo DS enthusiasts.

Stay tuned for updates as Anbernic prepares a deeper unveiling of its latest handheld on its official channels and social media platforms.

Nintendo Xbox Series X|S Anbernic Nintendo DS DS Xbox X|S RG DS Retro Handhelds Google Gemini