What the Xiaomi Retro Handheld Case Offers
When Xiaomi unveiled its official Retro Handheld Console Case, the tech world got a surprise: a smartphone that doubles as a nostalgic gaming device. Priced at $69.99, the accessory slots onto the Xiaomi 17 Pro, using the phone’s secondary "Miracle Sharing Back Screen" as the game display. The result is a compact, pocket‑sized arcade that feels more like a classic handheld than a phone.
The case is packed with retro‑era controls. It sports a full set of ABXY buttons, a circular D‑pad, and dedicated Start/Select keys, all positioned for thumb‑friendly gameplay. The layout mirrors beloved systems such as the Game Boy Advance, giving gamers an instant sense of familiarity.
Construction-wise, Xiaomi chose a blend of high‑quality environmental PC and TPU. This combination wraps the 17 Pro in a protective shell that safeguards every corner and edge from bumps, scratches, and accidental drops. At just 191 g and 8.06 mm thick, the phone remains sleek, and the case adds only a modest bulk.
Battery life is a standout claim. A built‑in 200 mAh power pack is said to provide up to 40 days of usage if you play roughly three hours per day. That translates to weeks of on‑the‑go entertainment without hunting for an outlet. The case also ships with pre‑installed games like Xiaomi retro handheld case Angry Birds 2, so users can start playing straight out of the box.
- Official accessory for Xiaomi 17 Pro Series
- Authentic retro button layout (ABXY, D‑pad, Start/Select)
- Protective PC/TPU shell covering all four corners
- 200 mAh auxiliary battery promising up to 40 days of light gaming
- Pre‑loaded games for instant fun
Potential Drawbacks and User Considerations
Despite the hype, the case isn’t without compromises. First, it disables wireless charging while attached, meaning users must remove the shell for any inductive power boost. That can be a nuisance for those who rely on the convenience of wireless pads.
Second, the back screen’s camera lenses sit behind the display area used for games. In titles with full‑screen graphics, the lenses can cast a slight obstruction, reducing the visual experience. While most casual games hide the camera area, more immersive titles might feel cramped.
Another point to weigh is the added weight. Though the phone stays light, the case adds a few extra grams, which could affect comfort during marathon sessions. Users with larger hands might find the button spacing tighter than expected.
Overall, the Retro Handheld Case showcases Xiaomi’s ambition to blend flagship phone specs with retro gaming charm. It appeals to gamers who love a throwback feel but also want the power of a modern processor. As the market watches, this hybrid could spark a wave of similar accessories, pushing smartphones further into the realm of dedicated gaming gear.
sachin p
September 27, 2025 AT 01:59The case really does turn the 17 Pro into a mini arcade, and the button layout feels spot on for anyone who grew up with a GBA. It’s nice that Xiaomi used a mix of PC and TPU so the phone stays protected without getting too chunky. The built‑in 200 mAh battery claim sounds impressive if you only play a few hours a day. Just remember you lose wireless charging, so you’ll have to take it off to juice up. Overall it’s a clever piece of hardware for retro lovers.
sarthak malik
September 27, 2025 AT 07:32This accessory packs a lot of thought into its design. The ABXY buttons and D‑pad are placed exactly where you’d expect, making the transition from handheld console to phone seamless. Xiaomi’s choice of a thin TPU shell keeps the device lightweight while still offering decent drop protection. Pre‑loaded games let you test the controls straight out of the box, which is a nice convenience. Just keep in mind the camera lenses sit behind the gaming area – you might see a slight blur in full‑screen games.
gaganpreet singh
September 27, 2025 AT 13:05While the Retro Handheld Case appears to be a nostalgic novelty, it raises deeper concerns about the direction of mobile gaming hardware. First, the additional 200 mAh battery is a mere illusion; it can’t genuinely sustain days of play without significantly draining the phone’s primary battery, especially when modern games demand higher performance. Second, disabling wireless charging defeats one of the core conveniences that flagship smartphones offer, pushing users back to outdated charging practices. Third, the placement of the camera lenses behind the gaming display not only compromises aesthetics but also interferes with the user’s visual field, which is unacceptable for a device marketed as an “arcade”. Fourth, the added weight, albeit modest, can cause hand fatigue during extended sessions, particularly for gamers with larger hands who already struggle with cramped button spacing. Fifth, the case’s reliance on a proprietary button layout limits compatibility with future accessories, locking users into a single ecosystem. Sixth, the claim of “up to 40 days” of usage is misleading, as it assumes a very light gaming load that most enthusiasts will quickly exceed. Seventh, the pre‑loaded games, while convenient, restrict the experience to a curated selection, ignoring the vast library of retro titles that could be emulated with proper software support. Eighth, the environmental impact of producing additional PC/TPU components for a device that primarily serves a niche market cannot be ignored. Ninth, the case’s design does not address heat dissipation, potentially leading to thermal throttling during intensive gameplay. Tenth, the lack of configurable button mapping prevents personalization, which many seasoned gamers consider essential. Eleventh, the accessory does not support external controllers, further limiting its utility. Twelfth, it adds a layer of complexity to a phone that already offers diverse gaming options through cloud streaming services. Thirteenth, the price point of $69.99 may deter budget‑conscious consumers who can achieve similar experiences with affordable Bluetooth controllers. Fourteenth, the case’s aesthetic, while retro‑inspired, may not appeal to users seeking a sleek, modern look. Fifteenth, by focusing on nostalgia, Xiaomi risks sidelining innovation that could truly advance mobile gaming. In sum, the Retro Handheld Case feels more like a marketing gimmick than a substantive advancement in handheld gaming.
Urmil Pathak
September 27, 2025 AT 18:39Nice piece.
Nasrin Saning
September 28, 2025 AT 00:12I think the case is a thoughtful nod to retro gaming culture and it’s great for quick sessions on the go. The protective shell also gives the phone an extra layer of safety which is always welcome. Even though wireless charging is disabled you can still charge normally via cable without hassle. All in all it’s a fun add‑on for anyone who loves a bit of nostalgia.