Ayaneo Unveils Pocket Play: Android Phone with Xperia Play Flair
Ayaneo's first Android smartphone features a slide-out screen and built-in game controls inspired by Xperia Play. Full specs remain under wraps.
Ayaneo, a well-known maker of handheld gaming devices and compact PCs, has introduced Pocket Play, its first Android smartphone. The device borrows the iconic look of the 2011 Sony Ericsson Xperia Play and uses a sliding screen with tactile controls tucked beneath.
Pocket Play at a glance
Pocket Play includes a full hardware control set: a directional pad (D‑pad), four action buttons labeled A, B, X, and Y, and two circular touch panels for extra input. The back features two pairs of shoulder triggers. Notably, the phone omits a 3.5 mm headphone jack.
What we know about the specs
Ayaneo has kept technical details under wrap on the Kickstarter product page, with no specific numbers published yet. The company says the device will ship soon, but a firm release date has not been announced.
This is the second Xperia Play–inspired device announced this year. Earlier, Anbernic introduced the RG Slide. Pocket Play looks more refined and could serve as a primary smartphone for gaming, while the RG Slide is more of a dedicated gaming device. If the expectations hold, Pocket Play is likely to be priced higher than $189, the asking price for the RG Slide.
Other Ayaneo devices in 2025
Ayaneo has already teased additional portable systems this year. In early 2025, the company unveiled the modular pocket console Ayaneo 3. In September, it revealed details about Pocket Air Mini, one of the most affordable Android handhelds on the market.
Experts say Pocket Play signals a niche shift toward Android phones with built-in physical controls. Until full specifications are released, consumers should wait for comprehensive details before making a decision.
Short summary
Pocket Play marks Ayaneo’s bold move into Android smartphones with built-in game controls, drawing clear inspiration from the Xperia Play. The design aims to appeal to gamers who want tactile input on a phone, potentially setting a new standard for hybrid handhelds. Pricing remains undisclosed, but expectations place Pocket Play above $189, with a near-term release on the horizon as Ayaneo expands its 2025 lineup.
Key insight: Pocket Play blends retro-inspired design with modern Android gaming, signaling growing interest in pocket devices that combine a phone with tactile game controls.