Xiaomi’s Retro Phone Case: The Ultimate Gaming Paradox
▼ Summary
– Xiaomi announced its flagship 17 Pro series phones, which feature a second screen on the back of the device across the camera island.
– The secondary screen can be used for functions like framing selfies, setting timers, and controlling music playback.
– A key accessory is a ¥299 Retro Handheld Console Case that turns the phone into a gaming device with buttons and a D-pad.
– This gaming case includes a battery for extended gameplay and comes pre-loaded with Angry Birds 2, but it blocks wireless charging.
– The 17 Pro phones were announced for China, with no confirmed release plans yet for Europe or other markets outside the country.
The prospect of transforming a modern smartphone into a retro gaming device presents a curious blend of nostalgia and novelty. Xiaomi has introduced an official accessory that does exactly that, launching alongside its new flagship Xiaomi 17 series phones in China. This lineup, featuring the 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, incorporates a distinctive secondary display on the rear that spans the camera module. While this screen serves practical functions like framing selfies and media controls, it also sets the stage for a rather unconventional gaming accessory.
Dubbed the Retro Handheld Console Case, this ¥299 (approximately $40) add-on aims to replicate the feel of a classic portable console. It equips the phone with a circular D-pad reminiscent of an iPod Click Wheel and four face buttons. A small integrated 200mAh battery is claimed to support up to 40 days of gameplay, assuming three-hour daily sessions. The package even includes a pre-loaded copy of Angry Birds 2, though the gaming experience is visually complicated by the phone’s prominent camera lenses, which occupy a significant portion of the screen.
However, this unique design comes with notable compromises. The most immediate issue is the physical obstruction caused by the camera array, which likely results in an awkward and cramped gaming interface. Furthermore, the case’s design completely blocks the phone’s ability to use wireless charging while attached. For a device marketed as a high-end flagship, this limitation could be a significant inconvenience for users who rely on cord-free power solutions.
There is currently no official information regarding a global release for the Xiaomi 17 Pro models or their quirky case. Should they eventually arrive in markets like Europe, the retro accessory would certainly attract attention for its bold, if flawed, concept. This move might also signal that Xiaomi’s designers are experimenting with even more unconventional ideas, potentially hinting at future innovations for the brand’s accessory lineup.
(Source: The Verge)
