ZX Spectrum handheld launches after February 2017 postponement

The makers of a Spectrum ZX handheld are aiming to ship their Indiegogo-funded product in February 2017. They had to deal with production problems, so the release had to be postponed. One of the buttons was not functioning properly.

Retro Computers has announced the new release month on the project’s Indiegogo page. Initially, the handheld called Vega+ was supposed to be released in October, but the device was delayed. The first test samples were ready in November, after which the makers formulated a number of points for improvement.

Among other things, one of the buttons turned out not to be robust enough for long gaming sessions. The makers then designed a new button, which should be more durable and provide better response times. Retro Computers states that it has made the necessary revision and that it is certain that the deadline of February 2017 is met.

The intention to release the original Spectrum ZX in a handheld jacket was revealed in late 2014. The creator of the original Spectrum ZX, Clive Sinclair, approved the project and was involved in its development.

The handheld is aimed at gaming, in addition to a built-in LCD with a resolution of 256×192 pixels, an SD card reader and comes with a thousand games. The design is by the man who also designed the original Sinclair ZX80, ZX81 and ZX Spectrum. The device will be available for 100 pounds, converted and with VAT, that comes out to 141 euros. It is not yet known through which online suppliers the product will be for sale.