Ayaneo has built a reputation on crafting high-end, powerful retro gaming handhelds. Now, the company is looking to conquer a new, highly competitive space: the gaming smartphone market. The company recently dropped a vague teaser video for its upcoming device. The company promotes the first Ayaneo Phone as a handset that meets “the soul of gaming handheld.” If the early leaks are correct, this device might deliver a key feature that modern mobile gaming desperately needs.

Most gaming phones from competitors like RedMagic and ASUS ROG focus primarily on powerful chipsets and advanced cooling. Plus, they often require expensive accessories for controls. However, the Ayaneo Phone seems to be taking a different path. It’s prioritizing core tactile hardware.

Ayaneo Phone teaser hints at physical trigger buttons, potential slider design

The most crucial detail spotted in the teaser is the clear presence of physical shoulder buttons (L and R triggers) when the phone is held horizontally. For serious mobile gamers, this is a massive plus. Physical buttons offer precision and immediate tactile feedback that screen overlays simply cannot match. This will be especially useful in fast-paced competitive titles.

This design focus aligns perfectly with Ayaneo’s history and branding. The device will be released under the company’s “Remake” banner, which previously featured retro-styled modern handhelds. This has led to heavy speculation that the Ayaneo Phone might adopt a sliding form factor. The form factor is reminiscent of the beloved (and long-discontinued) Sony Xperia Play. While the video doesn’t confirm a slider, the emphasis on integrated physical controls suggests Ayaneo is looking to recapture that classic, all-in-one gaming experience.

A challenge to the giants

Visually, the phone appears to carry a standard dual-camera setup on the back, with sensors sitting flush with the chassis. But make no mistake: this phone isn’t about photography; it’s about pushing buttons.

Ayaneo will seek to establish itself as a good alternative in the current market. Competitors are readily available, but few integrate physical controls as standard. The challenge for the brand will be navigating the difficulty of penetrating the US market. Ayaneo will also have to manage the final price tag—its products are not usually cheap.

The company is betting that a dedicated gamer will pay a premium for a device truly “made for gamers.” If the Ayaneo Phone pushes all the right buttons, it could take over a really interesting niche.