ANBERNIC’s PS Vita-inspired handheld finally gets Play Store support

At a glance:

• ANBERNIC releases Android update for RG Vita Pro, adding Google Play Store support.
• Version 1.14 brings bug fixes and system improvements, though specifics are not detailed.
• Previously, the handheld lacked Play Store, limiting non-gaming app access; now users can download apps like YouTube.

ANBERNIC and the RG Vita Pro: A PS Vita-Inspired Device

"Imitation is the best form of flattery." While the original proverb by Charles Caleb Colton uses "sincerest" instead of "best," the sentiment remains impactful. ANBERNIC, a notable name in retro gaming handhelds, seems to have embraced this ethos with its RG Vita Pro, a device directly inspired by Sony's PlayStation Vita. This dual-operating system handheld runs both Linux and Android, targeting enthusiasts seeking portable emulation capabilities with a design reminiscent of the iconic PS Vita.

However, at launch, the RG Vita Pro notably lacked the Google Play Store, a significant omission for an Android-based device. The interface is built on Android, but without official Play Store support, users were restricted to pre-installed apps and sideloaded content. This gap was particularly evident for non-gaming uses, such as media streaming or productivity tools, which are commonly accessible via the Play Store on other Android devices, limiting the handheld's versatility beyond retro gaming.

The Android Update: Version 1.14 Details

In a recent announcement via a YouTube video from Retro Handhelds, ANBERNIC detailed the new Android update for the RG Vita Pro. The highlight is the integration of the Google Play Store, a feature absent during the device's initial release. Labeled version 1.14, this update also includes various bug fixes and system improvements, though the company did not specify which issues were addressed, leaving some uncertainty about the full extent of changes.

The addition of the Play Store significantly enhances the RG Vita Pro's utility. Users can now download and install a vast array of Android apps directly, from entertainment platforms like YouTube to utilities and games not available through emulation alone. This move aligns the device more closely with standard Android handhelds, broadening its appeal beyond retro gaming purists and transforming it into a more flexible tool for everyday use.

Why Was the Play Store Missing? Emulator Limitations

Initially, the omission of the Google Play Store on the RG Vita Pro can be attributed to the state of PlayStation Vita emulation on Android. Unlike PlayStation Portable (PSP) emulation, which enjoys broad support and numerous titles on the Play Store, PS Vita emulation is less mature. Key emulators include:

• Vita3K: One of the few viable options for Vita emulation on Android, but not available via the Play Store.
• EmuCoreV: A more recently released emulator that offers another alternative, though also not on the Play Store.

This lack of readily available emulation tools may have led ANBERNIC to exclude the Play Store initially, focusing instead on core gaming functionality. Since neither Vita3K nor EmuCoreV are distributed through official channels, the device's early versions prioritized direct emulation over broader Android integration, a trade-off that limited app accessibility.

Expanding Functionality: Beyond Gaming

With the Google Play Store now accessible, RG Vita Pro owners can leverage the device for a wider range of activities. As shown in ANBERNIC's promotional video, apps like YouTube can be used for media consumption during breaks from gaming, turning the handheld into a multi-purpose gadget. This update addresses a key user request, enhancing the device's value proposition in the competitive retro gaming market.

Moreover, the update underscores ANBERNIC's responsiveness to community feedback. By integrating the Play Store, the company not only improves user experience but also positions the RG Vita Pro as a more viable option for those seeking an all-in-one portable device. However, the vague description of bug fixes means users will need to test the update to discover other potential enhancements or resolved issues.

What's Next for ANBERNIC and the RG Vita Pro?

Looking ahead, ANBERNIC may continue to refine the RG Vita Pro with further software updates. The integration of the Play Store sets a precedent for adding more Android features, possibly including better Google service integration or expanded app compatibility. For the handheld gaming sector, this evolution highlights the growing convergence between emulation devices and mainstream Android hardware, where flexibility and app access are increasingly prioritized.

Users should monitor future updates for additional improvements or new functionalities. The RG Vita Pro's journey from a niche emulation clone to a more open Android device reflects broader trends in the retro gaming community, emphasizing adaptability and user-centric design. As emulation technology advances, ANBERNIC's approach could influence how other manufacturers balance gaming performance with general-purpose utility.