Anbernic rolls out an update to fix the RG DS ahead of shipping

The Anbernic RG DS launched as one of the most affordable dual-screen handhelds this year. The device has already been available to pre-order for a few weeks now, and shipping is expected to begin on December 7. However, just before folks start receiving the RG DS, Anbernic has released a software update that fixes some of the issues that were reported to be plaguing the device.

In late November, a handful of reviewers who had received samples of the Anbernic RG DS revealed some major issues with the device such as desynchronization between the two displays when playing dual-screen games. Now, Anbernic is reported to have released a software update that fixes some of the bugs and even adds a new feature.

According to Retro Handhelds, the update, which takes the software to version 1.4 will ship with new devices. Below is the changelog:

• Upper Screen Frame Rate Fix - resolved the infamous “40Hz bug” that caused the refresh rate of the top screen to drop when the bottom screen is active.
• Screen synchronization optimization - optimized screen synchronization when playing dual-screen games.
• Dual-Screen backlight control - this adds support for independent backlight control for the two screens.

The Anbernic RG DS is priced at $99.99 but is available to pre-order until December 9 for $93.99. Anbernic offers the handheld in three colors — Black & Crimson, Turquoise Blue, and Polar White. The RG DS has two 4.0-inch IPS touch displays with a 640 x 480 resolution. It is powered by the Rockchip RK3568 processor and has 3GB of RAM and 32GB of expandable storage.

The RG DS features stereo speakers, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, an audio jack, and a 4,000mAh battery that should provide up to 6 hours of gameplay. Anbernic ships it with Android 14 out of the box.