Retroid Releases Pocket Duo Lite+ Weeks After Original Pre-Orders Open

Retroid announced the Pocket Duo Lite+ on Sunday, an upgraded version of its dual-screen handheld console released merely weeks after opening pre-orders on the original Pocket Duo Lite model announced in September.

The Lite+ retains the dual-screen external design but upgrades the internal hardware with a Dragonwing Q-7790 processor and 8GB RAM plus 128GB storage. The new model costs $199 (€174) and ships in November.

Pre-order customers for the original Duo Lite expressed frustration online, saying they would have purchased the upgraded model had it been available from the start. Retroid stated the Lite+ was designed after launch in response to customer feedback, but the timing angered early buyers who felt blindsided.

In response, Retroid opened a cancellation and exchange programme for all Pocket Duo Lite pre-order customers. Those who ordered can keep their original pre-order or pay the difference to upgrade to the Lite+. Customers who already received the Duo Lite can return it with Retroid covering return shipping costs.

The exchange window closes September 23 at 20:00 EST or September 24 at 01:00 BST. After that deadline, Retroid locks all Pocket Duo Lite orders in place. The company now offers the original Pocket Duo, the Pocket Duo Lite, and the Pocket Duo Lite+ for purchase.