GPD WIN 3 1.0.4 software update adds mouse support for easier web browsing when on-the-go ↺
The GPD WIN 3 handheld was made available to some backers a few months ago at an early development stage. While we loved the performance and sharp IPS touchscreen, the system had a few iffy details that needed to be ironed out including some Sleep issues and random keyboard inputs when sliding the display. The mouse and controller toggle along the left edge of the unit would also do absolutely nothing.
Fortunately, the manufacturer has provided a 1.0.4 software update for the mouse and controller toggle so that it can work as originally intended. When set to mouse mode, the integrated controller buttons become mouse and keyboard buttons to aid in navigation should an external mouse and keyboard not be available. The buttons are as mapped in the table below.
Button | Action |
---|---|
Directional Pad Up | Scroll webpage up |
Directional Pad Down | Scroll webpage down |
Directional Pad Left | Home |
Directional Pad Right | End |
A | Down |
B | Right |
X | Left |
Y | Up |
Left Joystick | W, A, S, D |
Right Joystick | 8-directional cursor control |
L1 | Left click |
L2 | Right click |
L3 | Space |
R1 | Right click |
R2 | Hold down to speed up right joystick cursor control |
R3 | Enter |
Though the idea sounds great on paper, it takes a bit of time to get used to. GPD has no customizable mapping software and so owners are stuck with the assigned buttons above. For example, it would've been more intuitive for the directional pad to be arrow keys instead of the A, B, X, and Y buttons. Once you get a feel for the controls, however, web browsing becomes a lot easier because you can scroll up, down, or click without needing to touch the display or off-centered integrated keyboard.
See our full review on the GPD WIN 3 for more information on the Tiger Lake-powered Windows 10 handheld.