Anbernic RG DS Plus Handheld Targets Nintendo DS Emulation

Anbernic has officially announced the Anbernic RG DS Plus, a new dual-screen handheld gaming console specifically engineered for emulating Nintendo DS titles. This device represents an expansion of Anbernic's retro gaming hardware offerings, aiming to provide an authentic emulation experience for classic Nintendo DS games. The RG DS Plus features a larger footprint compared to its predecessor and incorporates a Linux operating system, a departure from the Android OS found on earlier models. This shift to Linux is accompanied by a newly developed dual-screen emulator named NNDSS, which is designed to handle the unique requirements of Nintendo DS emulation, including robust touch and microphone integration. The NNDSS emulator supports microphone input, allowing players to utilize the built-in microphone for gameplay mechanics that were originally designed for the Nintendo DS's microphone. The device also includes specialized software for screen swapping and an instant save feature, enhancing the emulation experience. The Anbernic RG DS Plus is equipped with twin 4.3-inch displays, each offering a resolution of 1024x768 pixels with support for 4x pixel-perfect scaling. The lower display functions as a touch interface, designed to be used with the included capacitive stylus. This integrated stylus is a key hardware update, providing a more precise input method for touch-based games. Connecting the two screens is an upgraded dual alloy hinge, which is built for durability and allows for stepless positioning to achieve optimal viewing angles. For physical controls, the handheld includes four digital shoulder buttons and an analog stick. Connectivity options are extensive, featuring dual USB-C ports for charging and data transfer, dual microSD card slots for expandable storage, a standard headphone jack, and front-facing speakers. The company has also implemented a strategic RAM adjustment to better support GammaOS, a custom operating system often used in emulation devices, further enhancing its capabilities for running a variety of emulators and games. The Anbernic RG DS Plus is positioned as an affordable option for retro gaming enthusiasts, with a price point under $100 USD, making it accessible for a wide audience interested in reliving their Nintendo DS gaming memories through emulation. This release addresses a gap in the market for dedicated, high-quality Nintendo DS emulation hardware.