Source: Android Central
What you need to know
- Reports point to Qualcomm working on its own Android-powered gaming console.
- The console would feature a Nintendo Switch-like setup with detachable controllers.
- It will likely run Android 12 and launch in Q1 2022.
Android smartphones are becoming increasingly powerful, with many of the best phones for gamers rivaling even some laptops. The ASUS ROG Phone 5 tops out at an impressive 18GB, which is more than twice the RAM found on the machine used to type this up. With phones this powerful, it's no surprise that Qualcomm has reportedly begun developing its own Android-powered portable gaming console modeled after the Nintendo Switch.
Android Police got the exclusive on the upcoming console, which is said to resemble a thicker, bulkier smartphone to provide better airflow and allow the processor to run at higher clock speeds. The device will come with detachable controllers on either side à la Nintendo Switch, which will be built by a "premium supplier." It will also sport a 6,000mAh battery with Quick Charging capabilities.
The console will also support TV-out like the Nintendo Switch, although it's unsure by what method. It is said to come with a full suite of connectivity options, which includes 5G to help with Qualcomm's plans to sell the device through carriers. The console is being targeted to launch in Q1 2022, so it shouldn't come as much of a surprise that Android 12 is planned as the OS to power the console. Early versions of the Android 12 Developer Preview have indicated that Google is going all-in on haptics, particularly for gaming, so Qualcomm could be looking to take advantage of this.
An interesting tidbit is that Qualcomm intends to feature its own gaming portal as well as the Epic Games Store, which is still without an official Android app. Also interesting is the targeted price-point, which is around $300, putting it head-to-head with the Nintendo Switch. There's no word on the chipset powering the console, and Android Police could not obtain any photos. Still, if it's anything like the Alienware Concept UFO, then we could be in for some interesting new form factors in the Android space.

Global smartphone sales jumped 24% in Q1 2021, led by affordable 5G phones
The global smartphone market witnessed an impressive 24% YoY growth in Q1 2021, as per the latest research from Strategy Analytics. Samsung retained the title of the world's biggest smartphone vendor during the January to March period, with a market share of 23%.

Review: The TicWatch Pro S takes baby steps but not enough big leaps
Most wearable enthusiasts have developed a certain level of expectations when an upgraded watch is released. Unfortunately, the TicWatch Pro S fails to meet these expectations.

The Sony Xperia 1 III could be a perfect option for scorned LG fans
Sony's latest flagship phone has a 120Hz 4K HDR display and the world's first variable telephoto camera in a smartphone — but it also packs legacy features like a headphone jack and microSD expandability. With LG out of the picture, the Xperia 1 III seems like a perfect alternative to more mainstream options for consumers that want the best of tomorrow and yesterday in one package.

Here are all the games you can play on Oculus Quest and Quest 2
The Oculus Quest and Oculus Quest 2 have over 200 games and apps that both can play with some enhancements for the Quest 2 versions, and any Quest purchases transfer over to your new headset. Here are all Oculus Quest games currently available for both headsets, plus any announced and upcoming titles coming soon.