New redesigned GP2X handheld set for October release

A new version of the GP2X open source handheld has been announced.

Following on from the original GP2X released in 2005, the updated version features dual 240MHz ARM9 CPUs, 64MB RAM, TV-out functionality, support for SD/SDHC up to 32GB, and five- to ten-hours' play from two AA batteries.

Arguably the biggest change from its predecessor, however, is that the unit now boasts a touchscreen interface.

Oh, we should also mention it's fully backwards compatible with its predecessor and owners of that unit may welcome the revelation that a new digital D-pad has been included, along with an allegedly more robust (now white) case – let's just say the plastic of the previous model never felt too thick.

Firmware-wise, the GP2X-F200 comes with a port of Mplayer, a MP3/OGG player, picture viewer and e-book reader, as well as five bundled games.

If none of the above is making any sense, our apologies. The GP2X-F200, like its predecessors, is an open source handheld game console that runs the Linux operating system. This means it has gained something of a following (over 30,000 GP2X units are said to have sold, mostly in Europe) because of the several thousand software ports it can host, including emulators such as MAME, classic PC games and well-known media players.

The biggest draw for most remains the games, obviously. And the emulator support means most classic home systems (such as Commodore 64, Amiga, Mega Drive and PC), as well as arcades can be played on the system.

We didn't exactly found the last one to be the most ergonomic of handhelds but we did enjoy the time spent reliving pixel-perfect versions of some favourite games from our childhood and are therefore hoping this latest version continues that tradition while improving some of the weaknesses of its predecessor.

The GP2X-F200 is due to launch mid-October at £120. Pre-orders, which include a £5 discount, are currently being taken at gp2x.co.uk, where you'll also find more information.