Anbernic RG DS Gets First Firmware Update, Fixes Critical 40Hz Bug
Anbernic addresses the major screen refresh rate issue that plagued early reviews of its new dual-screen Android handheld with firmware 1.4.
Anbernic has pushed out the first official firmware update for its upcoming RG DS handheld (in stock as of the 7th December), directly targeting the critical software bugs that overshadowed its hardware reveal. Firmware version 1.4 is available now and will ship on all new devices, aiming to smooth over the rough edges before the dual-screen Android device reaches the general public.
Credit: Abernic
What's in the Update?
The headline fix is for the notorious '40Hz bug'. This issue, first identified by reviewer The Phawx and echoed by others, caused the handheld's upper screen to drop to a 40Hz refresh rate during gameplay, creating a noticeably choppy and unpleasant experience. Update 1.4 promises to have this fully resolved. Alongside this critical fix, the update includes 'screen synchronization optimization' specifically for Nintendo DS titles, which should help with the unique dual-screen emulation. A handy new feature has also been added: independent backlight control for each screen, allowing users to fine-tune the display to their liking and potentially save a bit of battery life.
A Rocky Start, Now on the Mend?
The RG DS, Anbernic's ambitious foray into a true dual-screen form factor for Android emulation, hasn't had the smoothest runway. Early units sent to reviewers were almost universally praised for their solid hardware and innovative clamshell design but heavily criticised for the software experience, with the 40Hz issue being a major sticking point. This update appears to be a direct and necessary response to that feedback. It's a crucial move, as the device hasn't yet started shipping to customers, giving Anbernic a window to correct course before it lands in the hands of the broader community over on r/SBCGaming.
The Community Alternative: GammaOS Next
While the official update tackles the core problems, the community hasn't been sitting idle. The talented developers behind GammaOS have already released 'GammaOS Next' for the RG DS. This custom firmware not only fixes the 40Hz bug and sync issues but goes much further, adding a global shader pipeline for enhanced visuals, significant RetroArch UI improvements, and the excellent GammaEQ audio system. For tinkerers who want to squeeze every drop of performance and customisation out of their device, GammaOS Next will likely remain the go-to choice, offering a more feature-rich experience beyond Anbernic's official support.
A Necessary Step Forward
This first update is a positive and expected step for Anbernic. Releasing a device with such a glaring technical flaw would have been a significant misstep, especially in a market as discerning as the retro handheld scene. Fixing the fundamental screen performance issue should allow the RG DS's hardware-its dual 4.95-inch 720p screens and Snapdragon G99 chipset-to finally shine as intended. It transforms the device from a 'wait and see' prospect plagued by issues into a much more viable product. Whether the official software can match the allure of community-built alternatives like GammaOS remains to be seen, but at least now the race is on a level playing field.
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