Switch 2 & ROG Ally Get a Secret New Dock
▼ Summary
– Genki has launched a Kickstarter for the Covert Dock 3, a compact power adapter with foldable prongs that also functions as a TV dock for devices like the Switch 2 and Steam Deck.
– The new Covert Dock 3 features an HDMI 2.1 port supporting 4K at 120Hz with HDR and VRR, a significant upgrade from the previous model’s 4K/60Hz limit.
– It includes a 65W USB-C port for charging and video input, a USB-A port for accessories, and is priced at $59 (or $69 for a global version with travel adapters).
– Genki is also fundraising for the Shadowcast 3 capture card lineup, with a base $59 model that supports 4K/60Hz capture and claims less than 40ms latency.
– The company estimates a December ship date for both products, contingent on a successful Kickstarter campaign.
The latest Kickstarter campaign from Genki introduces the Covert Dock 3, a compact power adapter that cleverly doubles as a TV dock for a range of popular handheld gaming devices. This new model is designed to work seamlessly with the anticipated Switch 2, the Steam Deck, and similar portable systems, offering a significant upgrade in both video output and charging capabilities. Its foldable prongs enhance portability, making it an ideal travel companion for gamers on the move.
A major improvement lies in the inclusion of an HDMI 2.1 port, which now supports a stunning 4K resolution at 120Hz on your television. This upgrade brings support for HDR and variable refresh rate (VRR), a notable step up from the previous model’s 4K at 60Hz limit. The device’s single USB-C port now delivers up to 65W of power for charging, a 20W increase, and also handles video input through DisplayPort 1.4. A dedicated USB-A port remains for charging accessories. The base model is priced at $59, with a global version including travel adapters available for $69; both options come with a USB-C 3.2 cable.
Alongside the dock, Genki is also launching the Shadowcast 3 lineup of capture cards. The standard $59 model is a simple dongle with HDMI-out and USB-C-in, capable of capturing video at 4K and 60Hz, 1440p at 120Hz, or 1080p at 240Hz from consoles. This is a substantial leap from the prior version’s 1080p at 60Hz limit. Genki states the base model operates with less than 40 milliseconds of latency. It includes a USB-C 3.2 cable for connecting to a computer, allowing users to broadcast or record footage in applications like OBS, Streamlabs, Zoom, and Discord.
The Shadowcast 3 also expands its functionality beyond gaming consoles. It can transform a compatible DSLR or mirrorless camera into a high-quality webcam. For mobile users, it connects to iPhones and iPads via the Genki Studio app or alternatives like Orion to display the video feed. For those seeking the ultimate performance, the $79 Shadowcast 3 Pro bundle includes the standard dongle plus an additional component that promises true zero-latency HDMI passthrough.
Genki estimates that, pending a successful Kickstarter campaign, both the Covert Dock 3 and the Shadowcast 3 products will begin shipping to backers in December.
(Source: The Verge)
