Expanding the Handheld Lineup

In a surprise move that has garnered significant attention from the retro gaming community, Retroid Pocket has introduced the Duo Lite Plus. This new device arrives just over a week after the company officially launched preorders for the original Retroid Pocket Duo and the Duo Lite models earlier this month. The sudden announcement comes as a response to consumer feedback, aiming to provide a middle-ground option for users who found the standard Duo too bulky and the Duo Lite lacking in performance.

Specifications and Pricing Strategy

The Duo Lite Plus is designed to bridge the gap between the existing products in the company's catalog. By combining the slim, portable form factor of the Duo Lite with the robust Qualcomm Dragonwing Q-7790 processor—the same chip powering the high-end Duo model—Retroid Pocket aims to satisfy power users who prefer a more compact aesthetic. According to the official listing for the Duo Lite Plus, the device is currently priced at $219 for standard preorders, though early adopters can take advantage of a $20 discount, bringing the total down to $199 with a specific promotional code.

Addressing Customer Concerns

The announcement has met with mixed reactions from early buyers. While the expansion is seen as a positive development, many consumers who had already placed orders for the Duo Lite were understandably upset, feeling that the lack of information regarding the mid-range model influenced their initial purchasing decisions. Retroid Pocket acknowledged these concerns by temporarily pausing shipments of the original Lite model, providing customers a window of time to evaluate their options.

Exchange Policy and Next Steps

To mitigate frustration among the user base, the company has implemented a consumer-friendly policy for those who feel blindsided by the new product launch. In an email communication to customers, Retroid Pocket confirmed that those who have already committed to a Duo Lite order can either maintain their purchase or initiate an exchange for the Duo Lite Plus. The company has pledged to cover all shipping costs and exchange fees associated with this process to ensure that existing customers are not financially penalized for their loyalty. Shipping for the new units is currently projected to commence in mid-November, providing a clear timeline for those looking to upgrade their hardware.

Sources

• EngadgetRetroid Pocket unexpectedly expands its Duo lineup with a Lite Plus version