MG puts Android in a dedicated gaming handheld

Android is fast becoming the next big gaming platform, thanks to Kickstarter projects like the Ouya games console. Now new start-up PlayMG has turned to Kickstarter in its bid to create the MG – the world's first handheld Android gaming console.

The MG features a 4in 800x480 WVGA display and packs a 1GHz processor along with 1GB of RAM and 4GB of internal storage, expandable with a microSD slot. It'll run Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich at launch, and comes with a 1.3MP front-facing camera.

The MG's stats aren't spectacular when set aside the likes of the Samsung Galaxy S3 – but then, it isn't aimed at people who can afford the latest smartphone upgrade. It's set to cost around US$150 on launch – aiming it squarely at kids who can't afford to pony up for a monthly data plan and big ticket game releases.

To that end, the MG features a kid-friendly customisable avatar – the MG Ro.bot – and "Family Collaboration" parental controls, plus a DebitSmart digital wallet.

Will the MG be able to emulate the Ouya's success in repurposing Android for gamers? Or is it trying to carve out a niche that's already been filled by mid-range smartphones? One thing's for sure – Android gaming looks set to grow and grow.

[Kickstarter via GamesIndustry.biz]

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