Many enthusiasts were undoubtedly captivated by the announcement of Ayaneo’s Next 2 handheld. This formidable device was set to feature a Strix Halo processor, an impressive 115 Wh battery, dual NVMe storage slots, and extensive memory options, boasting specifications that rivaled many gaming laptops.
However, Ayaneo has now confirmed a temporary suspension of pre-orders for the Next 2. This decision stems from rapidly escalating storage component costs, rendering the device economically unfeasible amid the current global memory and storage supply shortage.
The unfortunate news was conveyed via an update on Ayaneo’s Indiegogo campaign page, where the company provided a detailed explanation of its difficult decision and the circumstances leading to the Next 2’s halted progression.
According to Ayaneo’s statement, “Even at the initial launch of Next 2, storage prices were remarkably high, placing considerable pressure on our production costs. Despite this, we chose to proceed with the planned release and open pre-orders, driven by the desire not to disappoint the numerous Ayaneo fans who had eagerly awaited this product.”
The company elaborated, stating, “Following the Chinese New Year, upon re-evaluating storage procurement prices with our suppliers, we discovered an exponential increase—prices had soared several times beyond pre-holiday levels. This drastic rise has pushed the total manufacturing cost of the Next 2 significantly above its intended retail price.”
Ayaneo further explained that storage costs had been trending upwards for months even prior to the Next 2’s launch. They had anticipated that prices might stabilize, and despite the prospect of minimal profit or even a minor loss, they committed to the product’s release.
“Unforeseen by us,” the statement continued, “was not just the continued ascent of storage prices, but their accelerated escalation. Currently, the comprehensive cost of manufacturing the device far surpasses its selling price, nearing double our initial projections. This renders continued sales of the Next 2 utterly unsustainable.”
Ayaneo emphasized that existing pre-orders for the handheld will still be honored, with production proceeding as planned for early backers. The company also clarified that the suspension is temporary, stating, “Should storage prices revert to more reasonable levels in the future, we may explore resuming sales of the Next 2.”
The timeline for this market volatility to subside remains uncertain. Current forecasts suggest that the high memory and storage prices could persist through 2026 and potentially into 2027.
While DRAM manufacturers are actively establishing new production facilities to meet the surging demand from AI servers, significant time is required to adjust the complex electronics supply chain. It’s therefore unlikely that we will see a rapid return to lower memory and storage prices.
Despite the bleak outlook for component prices, Ayaneo’s transparent communication about the situation is commendable. The company assured customers that after-sales service and support would remain unaffected. While the handling of the situation appears reasonable under the circumstances, it undoubtedly comes as a significant disappointment to prospective buyers seeking a powerful new handheld gaming PC.