If you have ever used a handheld console from brands such as Anbernic, PowKiddy or Miyoo, you should be familiar with this routine – these analog handheld consoles usually come with a cheap MicroSD card filled with a bunch of ROMs, and these games are usually unknown who installed them.
Since the main purpose of purchasing such devices is to simulate games, most players choose to turn a blind eye to this practice. After all, these ROMs often do not run well. Players usually replace the MicroSD card with a higher quality and prepare their own games (from their own “backup” collection, of course).
However, this legal gray area has not attracted the attention of copyright holders, but a recent firmware update from Anbernic may change this situation.
According to reports from Retro Handhelds and HyperPlay RPG, the latest firmware update version 1.0.6 released by Anbernic for XX series devices has a built-in application that allows users to download game ROMs directly through WiFi, and can even automatically integrate games into the system interface, just like an official game store – only Anbernic does not own the copyright to these games, and the entire process does not involve any monetary transactions.
Built-in ROM download function, has Anbernic taken it too far?
If you consider that these devices come with a large number of pre-installed ROMs, this update does not seem to be something worth making a fuss about. However, the previous method still has at least some “circumvention room”, because the contents of the MicroSD card are provided by the vendor. In theory, the retailer can choose to remove the memory card before sale, turning the device itself into a “clean” product, thereby avoiding legal risks in markets such as North America and Europe.
But this time Anbernic has integrated the ROM download function directly into the operating system, which makes it clear that the main purpose of these handheld consoles is to pirate games. In the Chinese market, this may not be a big problem, but in the West and Japan, companies such as Nintendo, SEGA, and Sony will probably not sit idly by and ignore this.
It’s unclear whether this update will actually land Anbernic in legal trouble. After all, Anbernic and its competitors have not received a strong attack from mainstream IP holders so far. However, Anbernic’s move this time feels like he is actively provoking Tiger, which may not be a wise decision.
On the other hand, “piracy” is also the only way for many old games to continue to be experienced by players. After all, many classic games have long been unable to be purchased through legal channels. From a consumer’s perspective, maybe there’s no need to be overly anxious about this?
As expected, Anbernic has removed this controversial firmware update from its official website.
Currently, version 1.0.6, which includes the ROM download function, is no longer available for download. Anbernic is obviously aware of the risks that this update may bring. It remains to be seen whether similar features will return in the future.
source:TIME EXTENSION