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About
Transform your iPhone or iPad into a classic gaming console. Play popular retro systems like Game Boy, NES, and PlayStation with controller support and save states. Bring your own legally owned game files for an offline, ad-free experience.
What's New in RetroHandheld
3.0
September 20, 2026
Built for iPhone Duo. Fold your iPhone Duo part-way and Retro Handheld rearranges itself around the hinge: the game sits above the fold, the controls sit below it, and both stay clear of the crease. Fold it the other way and you get the game on one side with the controls on the other. Unfold and your game returns to the normal shell — no restart, no lost progress, no interruption. Every console gets its own control layout in this mode, from the Game Boy's four-way pad to the N64's analog stick and C-buttons. Not on a Duo? Settings → Display → Gameplay Layout has a Tabletop option that gives you the same split layout on any device with a tall enough screen. Fixed in this release: - Fixed a freeze that could lock up the app when you switched to another app or answered a phone call. This was the big one. - Sound now comes back properly after a phone call, an alarm, or a Siri interruption instead of going silent for the rest of your session. - Audio no longer drops out when you plug in headphones, connect to CarPlay, or switch output mid-game. - Autosaves are quicker and more reliable when you leave the app, so backgrounding mid-game no longer risks losing your place. - The app no longer keeps drawing frames while it's in the background, which is easier on your battery.
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FAQ
What consoles can I play with RetroHandheld?
RetroHandheld supports Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, NES, Super NES, Nintendo 64, PlayStation, and Sega Genesis. The classic lineup is available for free, with Nintendo 64, PlayStation, and Sega Genesis unlocked via a one-time purchase.
Does RetroHandheld include any games?
No, RetroHandheld does not include any games. Users must own the original game cartridges or discs to legally use game files with the app. Game files can be imported from the Files app.
Does RetroHandheld support controllers?
Yes, RetroHandheld offers support for Xbox, PlayStation, Switch Pro, and MFi controllers. It features automatic per-console mapping for a seamless experience.
Is RetroHandheld playable offline?
Yes, RetroHandheld is fully offline. It does not require an internet connection, accounts, or tracking, ensuring a private gaming experience.
Does RetroHandheld have ads?
No, RetroHandheld is completely ad-free. The description explicitly states 'no ads, ever' and it is not ad-supported.
How does RetroHandheld handle save data?
RetroHandheld allows you to save states anywhere, auto-saves on exit, and offers one-tap resume. It also provides iCloud backup for save data across your devices.
What is the age rating for RetroHandheld?
RetroHandheld has an age rating of 4+. This is suitable for a wide range of users, indicating it contains no mature content.
How often is RetroHandheld updated?
The latest version of RetroHandheld is 2.8, last updated on June 24, 2026. This indicates a recent and active development cycle for the application.








