[DigitalToday reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] Acer has unveiled a concept handheld gaming device that combines a keyboard. It is designed to keep the size of a handheld console while allowing users to play PC games that require keyboard input on a single device.

On Sept. 2 (local time), IT outlet The Verge reported that Acer unveiled 'Project DualPlay Mini,' a Windows 11-based handheld gaming concept device.

Project DualPlay Mini has a form factor similar to Acer's existing Predator Atlas 8 line. Analog sticks, a directional pad and Xbox-style ABXY buttons sit on either side of the screen, while the top has two triggers on each side.

The most notable feature is the keyboard. Acer applied a 'flip and swivel' design so that after unfolding the device and rotating the screen, the display mates with a small backlit mini keyboard. The structure combines a game controller and keyboard in one handheld device.

The strategy is to target keyboard-centric PC games that are difficult to play on typical handheld consoles. Users who want to play PC games on the move have had to choose between gaming laptops and Steam Deck-type handheld devices, but Acer is proposing a way to combine the strengths of the two.

Project DualPlay Mini is not a product that can be purchased right away. It is a pure concept product with no sales plan, and Acer did not disclose detailed specifications or a release schedule.

Based on what has been confirmed so far, it uses an Intel chip and a dual-fan cooling structure similar to the Predator Atlas 8. The cooling system consists of a metal fan and a plastic fan, and the metal fan blades are thinner than before.

Some connectivity details were also disclosed. The back has two USB-C ports, one of which supports Thunderbolt. As it can connect to an external display, it appears Acer also considered using it as a simple productivity device as well as a handheld console. Still, it is assessed as difficult to replace a full-fledged work device with only an about 8-inch screen. If connected to an external monitor, it could be used like a secondary PC while traveling.

The core of the concept is not simply adding a keyboard. Acer showed an effort to expand how a handheld console can be used to include keyboard-friendly PC games and simple PC tasks. In particular, keeping portability similar to the Steam Deck while enabling games that require keyboard input is a differentiating factor from existing handheld consoles.

Acer also plans to showcase a new 7-inch model of the Predator Atlas 8 during IFA. Project DualPlay Mini can also be seen as an extension of that handheld gaming hardware strategy.

Still, whether it will be mass-produced remains unclear. Acer did not present a release schedule or distribution plan for Project DualPlay Mini.

Ultimately, the key question is whether Acer will develop the concept into an actual product. Attention is focused on how competitive the design can be in the market, as it combines a keyboard, game controller and a Windows 11 environment into a handheld console-sized device.