Retroid Pocket Adds Duo Lite Plus Handheld and Offers Free Exchanges After Preorder Backlash

Handheld gaming hardware maker Retroid Pocket has expanded its dual-screen lineup with the unexpected introduction of the Duo Lite Plus, arriving just over a week after the company opened preorders for its standard Duo and Duo Lite systems.

The new handheld is designed to bridge the gap between the two original models, which take design inspiration from Nintendo's DS format. The Duo Lite Plus combines the slimmer chassis of the Duo Lite with the higher-performing Qualcomm Dragonwing Q-7790 processor found in the more expensive Duo.

According to a report by Engadget (https://www.engadget.com/2263442/retroid-pocket-unexpectedly-expands-its-duo-lineup-with-a-lite-plus-version/), Retroid Pocket attributed the late addition of the intermediate tier to customer feedback. However, the abrupt release generated frustration among early adopters who had already preordered the standard Duo Lite without knowing a configuration combining the smaller chassis with the faster chip was planned.

To address customer reaction, Retroid Pocket emailed buyers stating that it would pause Duo Lite shipments for several days to allow customers to compare specifications across the expanded lineup.

In the customer notice, the company wrote that "following the announcement of the new Duo Lite+, we want to make sure our existing Duo Lite customers have the opportunity to choose what works best for them." Retroid Pocket confirmed that existing Duo Lite purchasers can keep their current order or exchange it for a Duo Lite Plus, with the company covering all associated shipping and exchange expenses.

Retroid Pocket opened preorders for the Duo Lite Plus at $219, with an early bird promotional code reducing the price to $199. Deliveries for the handheld are scheduled to begin in mid-November.