Retroid Pocket Introduces Duo Lite Plus Amid Customer Service Concerns

Retroid Pocket has abruptly expanded its Duo gaming handheld lineup with the introduction of the Duo Lite Plus, a new model designed to bridge the gap between its standard Lite and premium Duo devices. The announcement came just over a week after the company opened preorders for the Duo and Duo Lite, a timing that has left some early customers frustrated.

The Duo Lite Plus is positioned as a middle-ground option, combining the compact, slimmer form factor of the Duo Lite with the more potent Qualcomm Dragonwing Q-7790 processor found in the higher-end Duo model. Preorder pricing is set at $219, though an early-bird discount code reduces the cost to $199. Units are expected to begin shipping in mid-November.

While the company stated that the new model was developed based on customer feedback, reactions online have been mixed. Many users who purchased the Duo Lite before learning about the Lite Plus expressed disappointment, feeling misled by the rapid product cycle. Social media and forum discussions highlighted concerns about the lack of prior warning regarding the new variant.

To address the backlash, Retroid Pocket issued an email to existing Duo Lite customers announcing a temporary pause on shipments. This halt is intended to give buyers time to compare the specifications of both devices. The company confirmed it will cover all return shipping costs and exchange fees for those who wish to switch from the Duo Lite to the new Duo Lite Plus, ensuring customers can make the choice that best fits their needs without financial penalty.