The Miyoo Mini Flip first surfaced 9 months ago. In the world of retro gaming handhelds that is a log time to tease us with the Miyoo Flip release, In that time, the retro gaming community has seen a surge of handheld consoles, from the Miyoo A30 to the Anbernic RG35XXSP. Yet, even as enthusiasts unbox the Retroid Pocket 5, the Miyoo Mini Flip appears to be gearing up for its long-anticipated release. Recent leaks, images, and even a teaser video have given us a closer look at this exciting addition to the handheld market.
The Miyoo Mini and Mini Plus
The Miyoo Mini Plus established itself as one of the finest budget-friendly retro gaming handhelds. Its stock firmware offered a user-friendly experience, a rarity at the time of its release. However, the introduction of Onion OS elevated the device’s performance and versatility, making it a staple for retro gaming enthusiasts. Despite competition from devices like the Anbernic RG35xx series, the Miyoo Mini continues to hold a special place in the hearts of its users.
Miyoo Mini Flip Release
The Miyoo Mini Flip has been a hot topic among retro gaming fans since its announcement a year ago. Early concept images and rumours fuelled excitement, and now, with official teasers and leaked videos, the device’s launch feels imminent. The Flip’s clamshell design is clearly inspired by the iconic Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP, bringing a sense of nostalgia while promising modern upgrades.
A Design Rooted in Nostalgia
The Miyoo Mini Flip features a compact clamshell form factor designed for portability and screen protection. Measuring approximately 108mm x 78.5mm x 22.3mm when closed, it’s sleek and travel-friendly. The top half boasts a 3.5-inch IPS display with a resolution of 640×480, ideal for retro gaming. The bottom half includes an array of controls: a d-pad, ABXY buttons, dual analogue sticks, start/select buttons, and additional triggers. This layout ensures compatibility with a wide range of games while maintaining a comfortable user experience.
Miyoo Mini Flip Details
Powered by the RK3566 chip, the Miyoo Mini Flip promises robust performance for its price point. The quad-core 64-bit Cortex-A55 processor clocked at up to 1.8 GHz has proven its capabilities in devices like the PowKiddy RGB30 and Arcade 2024. It supports emulation of systems up to PlayStation 1, Dreamcast, Nintendo 64, and PSP, though performance may vary based on firmware optimization.
Other rumored specifications include:
- RAM: 128MB
- Battery: 3000mAh for extended gaming sessions
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi support (Bluetooth is reportedly absent)
- Ports: Dual USB-C ports, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a mini HDMI port
- Storage: Dual microSD card slots for expandable memory
Operating System and Software
While details about the operating system remain scarce, speculation suggests Miyoo might collaborate with third-party developers like Onion OS or Goos to enhance the user experience. Custom firmware could unlock the device’s full potential, offering smoother emulation and additional features.
Color Options and Design Variants
Miyoo has confirmed four launch colours for the Mini Flip: Yellow, White, Black, and Grey. Early leaks also showcased a concept Pikachu-themed design, though potential copyright issues might prevent its release. Each variant maintains a retro aesthetic, reminiscent of the Game Boy Advance SP, with modern flair.
Price and Availability
The Miyoo Mini Flip is expected to be priced under $100, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers. Initially rumoured for a December 2023 release, the launch date has shifted to early 2024, with now December 2024 being the most likely timeframe. Despite delays, the device’s final design and feature set suggest it will be worth the wait.
Challenges and Potential
One concern among enthusiasts is the durability of the Flip’s hinge mechanism. Past Miyoo devices and competitors like the Retroid Flip faced similar issues, so ensuring a robust hinge will be crucial for the Mini Flip’s success. Additionally, the compact analog sticks might not be ideal for all types of gameplay, but their inclusion offers greater versatility.
Miyoo Mini Flip vs RG35XX SP
The Miyoo Mini Flip is poised to compete directly with the Anbernic RG35XXSP and other retro gaming handhelds. Its combination of affordability, portability, and performance makes it a strong contender in the budget gaming market. With its nostalgic design and modern hardware, the Flip could become a favourite among retro gaming fans worldwide.
Final Thoughts
As we await the official launch of the Miyoo Mini Flip, the excitement within the retro gaming community continues to build. Its blend of classic design, improved performance, and budget-friendly pricing positions it as a must-have device for enthusiasts. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Miyoo brand or new to retro handhelds, the Mini Flip promises an exciting gaming experience that bridges the past and the present.
