Hyperkin’s ‘SmartBoy’ gets official European release
PQube, in partnership with Hyperkin, have announced they will be releasing the SmartBoy through the Samsung Mobile Accessory Partnership Program (SMAPP) to the European Market. Originally a development kit in late 2016, the SmartBoy attaches to Android smartphones, such as the Samsung Galaxy S8, turning your smartphone into a handheld gaming device.
The SmartBoy is compatible with actual NTSC/PAL Game Boy and Game Boy Color cartridges, while sporting a classic-style tactile button set, making the SmartBoy look and feel like a real handheld gaming console. The SmartBoy is compatible with other apps and games, including Game Boy Advance apps from Google Play; configuration for such apps may vary. Out of the box, the SmartBoy was designed for current-gen Samsung devices with USB Type-C ports, like the Samsung Galaxy S8 – other Android device compatibility may vary.
Hyperkin Product Developer, Chris Gallizzi, was ecstatic to learn his team’s baby is now a retail-ready device officially licensed by Samsung.
The SmartBoy has been about two years in the making – three if you count the months we were kicking around the idea. From an April Fool’s Joke, to a successful dev kit, and now an officially licensed device, that little guy has come a long way!
Features:
- Compatible with NTSC/PAL cartridges
- Plays GB and GBC cartridges
- Classic-style tactile button set
- Designed for current-gen Samsung devices
- Phone Size: 5.2 – 6 inches
- Upscales to phone’s resolution
- USB Type-C port
- Does not require batteries
The SmartBoy is available to pre-order now at just £59.99 from FunstockRetro.co.uk
