It's clear that the previous "RG SP" handhelds from ANBERNIC have been incredibly popular. The original RG35XXSP was released in 2025 without analogue sticks, offering up to PS1 performance on a GBA SP-style device. Then came the RG34XXSP a year later in 2025, offering the same performance with added sticks.
Now in 2026, ANBERNIC has revealed the all-new "RG SP", a very similar device, with the likely same performance, this time with a slimlined body, no sticks, 10% less thickness, less screen bezels and 90% newly moulded parts with a "refined tactile feel", whatever that means.
It also comes in some new metallic colours too, which I don't think we've seen before from ANBERNIC. The light pink and light blue look very refreshing, and I kinda dig them because they resemble previously launched "Pearl Pink" and "Pearl Blue" GBA SPs.
"Ditching the joysticks for brand-new tactile buttons, this ultra-slim design invites you to relive the pure joy of the 2D golden era. Finished with premium metallic paint and a sleek acrylic logo badge, it recreates those shining moments straight out of memory." states ANBERNIC.
Do I think GBA SP fans need another clamshell of this calibre? Probably not, but I like that it has been refreshed, even though it's something I wouldn't buy personally. It makes the RG35XXSP redundant, and the new colours could entice previous RG SP fans to upgrade. I do wish they made a metal version. I think that would be cool to see because nobody has done that yet.
As of now, ANBERNIC has yet to announce any official release date, pricing or specifications of this device, but no doubt they'll be quick to get this out, seeing as the buying Christmas period isn't far away, and with an array of competitor handhelds coming out soon ANBERNIC will want to grab the bag.
