Ayaneo suspends sales of its Next 2 Windows handheld due to rising storage costs

Last month, Ayaneo finally began accepting pre-orders for its long-awaited Next 2 Windows-powered handheld. The device was being crowdfunded on Indiegogo, with the plan to begin shipping the orders in June 2026. However, a new update from the manufacturer has revealed that sales for the device is being suspended.

In a lengthy post made on Indiegogo, Ayaneo explained that the decision to suspend sales of the Next 2 is due to the exceedingly high storage prices. According to the manufacturer, the storage prices were already high prior to the launch of the Next 2, however, they decided to go ahead with the launch so as not to disappoint its fans, even if it meant razor-thin profit margins or even a slight loss.

Unfortunately, storage prices increased exponentially after the Chinese New Year holidays, such that the total (production) cost has now exceeded the selling price, nearing almost double of its original launch price. This has led to the decision to suspend sales as Ayaneo doesn't wish to keep adjusting the price of the Next 2 due to the rising costs of components.

Ayaneo says the Next 2 has been delisted and is no longer available for purchase. However, all orders made before the announcement will be fulfilled, as production for those orders will be completed. Ayaneo is also assuring all backers that it will provide long-term after sales support for the Next 2 by stocking sufficient parts.

Although Ayaneo's statement says the suspension is temporary, it also adds that it “may consider resuming” sales of the handhelds if storage prices fall to a reasonable level. Those who wish to purchase an Ayaneo Windows handheld can settle for the Konkr Fit which starts at $999. It can be pre-ordered directly from Ayaneo and it is expected to start shipping at the end of April.

Ayaneo's decision to suspend sales of the Next 2 comes weeks after Retroid, another Chinese handheld manufacturer, announced it was stopping production of its 5-month old Android handheld, the Retroid Pocket G2. Prior to that, Retroid also announced it was discontinuing the 12GB RAM version of its Pocket 6 handheld. It has also raised the prices of the 8GB RAM version of the Pocket 6 and the older Retroid Pocket Classic (available on Amazon for $149).