The Acer Predator Project DualPlay concept laptop was unveiled at IFA 2024 in Berlin and includes some interesting ideas for on-the-go gaming. Designs for gaming laptops have largely stayed the same over the last decade other than hardware improvements for display and internal components such as memory, storage, and CPUs/GPUs but Acer’s engineers are clearly thinking beyond the proverbial traveling PC box. Yes, of course, there’s been the influx of ARGB, removable, and flippable touchscreens, but not much else has really changed in a while.
The Acer Predator Project DualPlay was unveiled in Berlin and includes a removable controller that can be used for single-player gaming but also features detachable units (similar to the Nintendo Switch) allowing for multiplayer gaming. The Acer Predator Project DualPlay further attempts to provide a better laptop gaming experience by deploying 2x 5W pop-out speakers when the gaming controller is removed. The laptop’s touchpad is the controller base whose joysticks are then electromagnetically attached on either side. The controller can also double as a mouse giving the laptop an alternative user interface similar to gaming handhelds.
Features (per product page):
- “Seamlessly switch between keyboard/mouse for precision FPS and MOBA battles or unleash your inner warrior with a controller for intense fighting and sports games. Project DualPlay adapts to your playstyle, giving you the edge in any genre.”
- “Break free from solo play. The detachable wireless controller transforms your laptop into a co-op battle station. Share the thrill of victory with a friend, anytime, anywhere.”
- “Powerful pop-up speakers deliver heart-pounding audio that puts you in the center of the action. 360-degree dynamic RGB lighting sets the mood, creating an electrifying atmosphere that fuels your gaming passion.”
Per Press Release:
- “Players can easily wield the wireless controller from its electromagnetic lock by simply placing two fingers on the release button located on top of the keyboard.”
- “This action also triggers the two high-fidelity, 5-watt pop-out speakers to emerge from the sides of the laptop, immersing players in heart-pounding audio that brings every scene to life.”
- “The detachable controller can be further separated into two joysticks that are perfect for head-to-head combat on the next evolution of the Street Fighter series and can instantly transform the laptop into a battle station.”
- “The device is wrapped with customizable 360-degree dynamic RGB lighting on the keyboard, screen bezels, and wide trackpad area to add to its visual appeal.”
To be or not to be
There is speculation that Acer does not intend to release this concept laptop as many products shown at various expos like IFA 2024 never enter production. However, given the amount of media coverage happening for the Predator Project DualPlay and the over four thousand views of the above video, there does seem to be substantial interest which may influence Acer to move forward with a release.