Xiaomi 17 Pro becomes a Game Boy with its new retro gaming case

From Flagship to Retro Console: Xiaomi 17 Pro's Second Screen Gets a Game Boy Makeover

Xiaomi has unveiled a truly novel application for the secondary display on its latest flagship, the Xiaomi 17 Pro. During the launch event, the company showcased a special accessory that transforms the phone into a portable retro gaming device, harkening back to the beloved Game Boy era.

This ingenious case, dubbed the 'Magic Back Screen' gaming accessory, connects to the Xiaomi 17 Pro via Bluetooth. It's designed to leverage the phone's unique rear screen for an immersive, old-school gaming experience. For an estimated $40, users gain access to a surprisingly robust control interface, featuring a directional pad (D-pad), four front-facing buttons, and dedicated select and start buttons – all reminiscent of classic handheld consoles.

More Than Just a Shell: Power and Playability

What sets this accessory apart is its integrated 200 mAh battery. This dedicated power source is remarkably efficient, promising up to 40 days of use on a single charge. The convenience factor is further amplified by the ability to charge the phone without removing the case, ensuring uninterrupted gaming sessions. Xiaomi clearly understands the modern user's need for seamless integration and sustained power.

Adding to the nostalgic appeal, the gaming case comes bundled with a selection of licensed, classic games. Titles like Angry Birds 2, Sky Destroyer, Furball Runner, and the iconic Snake are pre-loaded, offering immediate gratification and a trip down memory lane. Crucially, these games are playable offline and, to the surprise of many, are entirely ad-free. This commitment to an unblemished user experience is a refreshing departure from the norm, even silencing potential detractors.

Bridging the Gap Between Modern Tech and Classic Fun

While the case offers a fantastic gateway to retro gaming, it's not without its minor challenges. As noted by Android Authority, some classic titles might present control difficulties due to the limited button layout compared to a full Game Boy. Additionally, the prominent rear cameras on the Xiaomi 17 Pro can occupy a significant portion of the screen real estate, potentially impacting gameplay visibility in certain scenarios. However, Xiaomi has released a video demonstrating the functionality, offering potential buyers a clear glimpse into the gaming experience. You can view the demonstration here: Xiaomi 17 Pro gaming case video.

The Xiaomi 17 Pro itself boasts a 2.66-inch Magic Back Screen, a versatile feature that can be used for a multitude of tasks, including managing calls, taking selfies, and displaying notifications. It even supports direct photo and video recording control via a specially adapted interface on the rear screen. While the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and a smaller variant of the flagship are confirmed for global release, information regarding the wider availability of the Pro model remains scarce, according to GizmoChina.