Arc X1 Launches as Affordable Gaming Handheld Based on Android

India-based gaming company Arc has introduced its inaugural handheld gaming device, the Arc X1, featuring a Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 chipset, a 120Hz display, and a substantial 9,300mAh battery. The portable gaming console operates on OwlOS, a tailored gaming-focused version of Android. It accommodates Android games, emulators, and cloud gaming platforms, while also enabling users to customize game-specific performance and control configurations.

The handheld sports a 7-inch LCD display with Full HD resolution, a 16:9 aspect ratio, and a 120Hz refresh rate. Protection against screen damage is provided by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. For user interaction, the device includes replaceable analog sticks that prevent stick drift, microswitch ABXY buttons, and a D-pad. Additional programmable buttons are located on the rear of the device.

Arc has incorporated two Linear Resonant Actuators for enhanced haptic feedback. The handheld measures approximately 500 grams and includes front-facing stereo speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and dual microphones.

The Arc X1 is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 gaming chipset. It is accompanied by 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage, with the latter expandable via a built-in microSD card slot. To prevent overheating during prolonged gaming, Arc has implemented an active cooling system complete with a fan. The device runs OwlOS, an Android-based operating system developed exclusively for gaming.

OwlOS enables the playback of Android games, operation of emulators, and access to cloud streaming services. Additionally, it offers per-game settings for performance, resolution scaling, fan curves, and other adjustments.

The Arc X1 connects via Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4, and also features a USB Type-C 3.1 port. The handheld is equipped with a 9,300mAh battery that supports 27W wired fast charging. According to Arc, the X1 can offer up to eight hours of silent mode usage. The sizable battery is complemented by the active cooling system, which incorporates a fan to manage heat during extended gaming periods. The Arc X1 is priced at $349 in India. It remains uncertain if the device will be released in other countries.