Acer's new DualPlay Mini is a handheld gaming PC that flips open into a mini laptop

Acer has announced its latest concept device, the DualPlay Mini, which combines the functionality of a handheld gaming PC and a mini laptop. Unveiled at IFA last week, the prototype aims to offer a unique handheld gaming experience that can also function as a portable laptop. The DualPlay Mini flips open, transforming its outer shell into a laptop setup with a keyboard and a screen rotated 180 degrees.

While Acer has not disclosed specific hardware details, the concept is reported to run Forza Horizon 6 smoothly and supports rumble features. The keyboard is large enough for users to play first-person shooters with a mouse and the WASD keys. The design of the DualPlay Mini is inspired by GPD's Win Max handheld gaming laptops and its 8-inch 2-in-1 models.

The Win Max 3, the latest addition to GPD's lineup, features AMD's Ryzen AI Max SoC, which triples GPU performance compared to the 2025 model. The Win Max 3 has upgraded to a 165Hz AMOLED screen and a more powerful TDP range of 45-110W. Though the Win Max 3 lacks a 2-in-1 configuration like the GPD Pocket 4, Acer's DualPlay Mini prototype aims to bridge the gap between gaming handhelds and laptops.

In contrast, Acer's Predator Atlas 7 offers a more traditional handheld gaming PC form factor, equipped with an Intel Arc G3 SoC, 25GB of RAM, a 7-inch 120Hz 1080p screen, and Thunderbolt 4 support. The DualPlay Mini is expected to become available in the fourth quarter of 2026.