In recent days, there’s been quite a buzz around Ayaneo’s handheld devices, and understandably so. Initially, it looked as though Ayaneo might be pulling the plug on their Ayaneo Flip line altogether, following a seemingly ominous post on their Indiegogo project page. However, it turns out things aren’t quite as dire as the original message suggested.
To clear up any confusion, Ayaneo has come forward with a few important details. Firstly, while it’s true that the production phase for the Ayaneo Flip was halted, this decision came after a whopping 98% of the pre-ordered units had already been dispatched. That leaves only 18 orders unfulfilled, for which customers can either opt for a refund or a trade-in with another Ayaneo product, as mentioned in our previous discussions.
Secondly, the Ayaneo Flip isn’t going anywhere. In fact, Ayaneo plans to crank out additional batches, aiming to produce several hundred more units over the next three months. They’ve reassured fans that the series will continue on, hinting at potential successors like the Flip DS 2 and Flip KB 2. Given the trend of foldable and slidable keyboard gaming handhelds, it might be wiser to concentrate efforts on the Flip DS design, though that’s just a suggestion from my end.
For those gaming enthusiasts who were waiting patiently for a mainstream release instead of backing the crowdfunding route, there’s still hope. Ayaneo has mentioned a “limited restock plan,” which likely means a retail release is in the cards. However, an exact date for when these newly produced units will hit the shelves is still under wraps. With the way this campaign has stirred the pot, you can bet those consoles will vanish quickly once available.
My hope is that dedicated fans snag these units before opportunists do, ensuring they end up in the hands of true gamers who can appreciate their unique design and powerful specs. The Ayaneo Flip, especially the DS version, offers something refreshingly different in the handheld market, and it’s good to see them getting another shot before their eventual successors come into play.
For the 18 lingering backers still waiting on their devices, the choice between getting a refund or trading for another Ayaneo model looms, with a deadline looming on March 27. Ayaneo has assured they’ve been in touch with those affected, which hopefully smooths over any remaining concerns.
