Nick Fernandez / Android Authority
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Summary
- A new Android launcher has been developed specifically for gaming on single and double screens.
- Named “Blip,” it is compatible with devices from AYN, Retroid, AYANEO, and Anbernic, as well as smartphones and tablets that operate on Android 12 or later.
- The developer is also introducing a feature called Blip Cloud, which will allow users to back up saves and sync them across devices.
The market for Android handheld consoles features a variety of dual-screen devices, including the Retroid Pocket Duo Lite Plus and AYN Thor, alongside a new offering from Anbernic expected to ship in December. Users are not confined to the pre-installed Android interfaces; they can now utilize Blip, an innovative launcher designed for both single and dual-screen gaming experiences.
Spanish software engineer Endika is creating the Blip Android launcher, which effectively manages screen splitting for games adapted for dual displays. For titles meant for single-screen use, it presents elements such as game artwork, manuals, or other relevant details on the lower screen.
Among its features, Blip will offer support for RetroAchievements, a community mechanism that incorporates achievement systems into retro games. It will also support RomM, an application for managing and playing ROM collections. Both features will require a one-time purchase to unlock.
Endika is also developing a feature named Blip Cloud, which enables users to back up their save data and synchronize it across multiple devices. Users will be allotted 100MB of free storage upon launch, which is currently in private beta testing but is expected to be available soon.
Moreover, users can personalize the launcher with nine different themes. Each theme encompasses various components, including color, shape, typeface, and sound effects, providing a rich experience. Themes are available for free and come in both light and dark modes.
The 16-bit theme, for instance, is tailored to firmware reminiscent of devices from 1994, enhancing the nostalgic feel for users.
Blip is also designed to support nine languages: English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, and simplified Chinese. This launcher works with devices from AYN, Retroid, AYANEO, and Anbernic, along with any device that runs Android 12 or newer. It is currently accessible on the Google Play Store.
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