Mangmi is getting ready to launch the Pocket Max, and it’s already doing something no other Android gaming handheld has modular magnetic controls. While similar features exist on Windows handhelds like the Ayaneo 3, this marks the first time modular buttons are hitting an Android-powered device.
Mangmi Pocket Max introduces swappable D-Pad and ABXY buttons
In a teaser posted to social media, Mangmi showed off a sneak peek of the Pocket Max with both the D-Pad and ABXY buttons removed, revealing a magnetic modular system beneath. Players will be able to swap layouts on the fly, whether to fit their grip style, emulate another console’s setup, or replace buttons entirely with a different module like a touchpad.
There’s no joystick swapping yet that’s still a Windows handheld exclusive for now, but this still puts the Pocket Max in a class of its own among Android devices.
What we know so far:
- Swappable D-Pad and ABXY modules
- Magnetic attachment system
- Teaser video shows easy snap-in/snap-out functionality
- Unknown if third-party modules will be supported
- Launching directly via Mangmi’s site (not via Kickstarter)
- Processor, screen specs, and colors already revealed
- No official release date yet
Modular gaming for Android, not just Windows
While Ayaneo’s modular control system is broader letting users switch joysticks too the Pocket Max stands out by targeting the Android crowd. Until now, modularity has been more of a PC handheld perk. That makes Mangmi’s move both unexpected and likely to stir up some competition.
Pocket Max skips crowdfunding for a direct launch
In another shift from startup norms, Mangmi confirmed in its Discord that it won’t be launching on Kickstarter or similar platforms. Instead, the Pocket Max will go live straight on Mangmi’s own website though they’re still holding back on the official date.
If this modular system is as smooth and intuitive as the demo suggests, Mangmi may have just carved out a bold new niche in Android handheld gaming. Now it’s just a matter of seeing if the controls click with gamers or fall flat without broader module support.
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