Ayaneo Clarifies Misunderstanding: Flip DS and Flip KB Projects Still Alive

In the whirlwind of gaming news, recent reports have stirred things up about Ayaneo’s Flip handhelds, leaving many of us scratching our heads. Initially, an announcement was pulled from its Indiegogo campaign page, leading to widespread speculation that the Flip series might be scrapped altogether. However, Ayaneo stepped in to set the record straight, clarifying that the Flip KB and Flip DS models are alive and well, contrary to the ominous vibe of their previous message.

Let’s break it down. While Ayaneo did halt production of the Flip line, this decision came after fulfilling a whopping 98% of its crowdfunding commitments, leaving just 18 backers in the lurch. This means, as previously mentioned, affected customers can opt for a refund or trade-in.

But here’s the kicker: the Flip series isn’t done for. Ayaneo plans to churn out a fresh batch of “several hundred” units in three months. They also hinted at future iterations—perhaps a Flip DS 2 or Flip KB 2. In a market teeming with devices sporting foldable or slidable keyboards, I’d argue they should focus on the Flip DS style, but hey, that’s just me.

For those who’ve had their eye on the Ayaneo Flip but weren’t keen on gambling with crowdfunding, there’s good news. A limited retail release is on the horizon. While specifics on availability aren’t locked in yet, given the buzz, these units might vanish as soon as they’re stocked.

Here’s to hoping there’s enough to go around for genuine fans, rather than being swooped up by resellers. The standout design of the Ayaneo Flip KB, and particularly the Flip DS, paired with their robust features, sets them apart in the handheld gaming space. Witnessing them get a new lease on life before potential successors hit the scene is quite promising.

Alas, for those 18 supporters still waiting on their devices, you’re faced with a choice: a refund or swap for another Ayaneo gadget, all before March 27, if previous details are still valid. Ayaneo assures they’ve reached out to those affected customers, so fingers crossed it all resolves smoothly.