The topic You can now buy replacement joysticks and screens directly from Anbernic instead of… is currently the subject of lively discussion — readers and analysts are keeping a close eye on developments.
This is taking place in a dynamic environment: companies’ decisions and competitors’ reactions can quickly change the picture.
One of the biggest shames with the handheld console industry is what happens when a specific yet vital component breaks. Because everything is tightly packaged within a shell, something that should be easy to swap can become a death knell for the entire unit. Some people have found creative uses for busted handhelds, but ideally, people should be able to repair them at home.
Well, Anbernic has made a massive step toward making that a reality; at least, with its own handhelds. The company has unveiled a store where you can buy bits and bobs for your console, though you’ll need to be a little careful before you buy.
As spotted by Engadget, Anbernic has opened its digital doors for people to purchase parts for their broken handhelds. There’s seemingly no limit on what you can grab; from a cursory glance, I can see options for buying a console shell, screen, motherboard, and battery, alongside smaller parts like the joysticks and buttons.
However, you’re going to want to be really careful with your purchase. Underneath the parts selection section, as part of the “Purchase Notes,” Anbernic clearly states that if you buy a part for the wrong console, it won’t refund you or let you exchange it for another part. If you purchase the wrong color, you also won’t get a refund. And if you don’t tell them what color you want, they’ll cancel your order in a week. So yeah, double and triple-check your order before you send it.
Otherwise, if you’re after a spare part that isn’t a motherboard or a screen, the prices are surprisingly cheap. Most models have the conductive rubber pad at $3, the battery at $8, and everything else at $10. And because it’s from an official source, you don’t have to worry about bootleg purchases.