Modders are a nostalgic bunch: they have a tendency to either engage in a project that pays homage or tribute to a particular device launched a lifetime ago or, in the case of this modder, transform an ASUS ROG Ally into a sorta, kinda Nintendo DS by adding a second display to it.
The modder, who goes by the handle YesItsKira on Github, posted their design and project of a dual-screen Ally on the repository. They essentially used bits and bobs, all procured through Amazon UK, leading us to assume that they are based in that country.
Getting right into it, the display is a 7-inch Wimaxit M728 display, which is an IPS display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. The display connects via HDMI, a port that the Ally lacks, and that, in turn, means that YesItsKira had no choice but to utilise an adapter.
Like the DS, the second screen is attached to the Ally via a hinge mechanism that YesItsKira 3D-printed. The downside, if you would call it that even, is that they needed to create a rear housing for the PCB adapter that connects the display to the gaming handheld. If we’re honest, it’s neither the cleanest nor the most aesthetically pleasing 3rd party design we’ve seen but hey, it’s 3D-printed and the jank is technically part of the appeal. Oh, and the best part is that the external display folds inwards, just as a DS does, making it a functional clamshell design.
If you have an Ally and you want to give this project a try, YesItsKira has left instructions and the sort of materials you’ll need. Obviously, if you’re doing this in Malaysia, your go-to source is likely to be Lazada or Shopee, and not so much Amazon.
(Source: Github, Liliputing, Videocardz)
