-Carlsen Martin
Updated: Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 15:06 [IST]
Indian gaming startup ARC has launched a beta testing programme for its flagship ARC X1 handheld. This targeted initiative offers selected local gaming enthusiasts early hands-on access to the upcoming console. Testers will provide critical feedback to help polish the device before its final release across India.
The global market for compact handheld gaming consoles is growing rapidly with several imported options. However, Indian gamers often encounter limited local availability and high costs for these platforms. ARC aims to address this market gap by introducing an accessible, domestic handheld console ecosystem.
Creating a dedicated gaming console relies on resolving structural challenges before starting mass production. Handheld systems must balance efficient thermal cooling with ergonomic controls and reliable battery units. By launching this community program, the engineering team hopes to identify any unexpected bugs.
The brand’s decision to run a community-driven program highlights its philosophy of building in public. Throughout the setup, ARC has shared progress on early prototypes, design choices, and component sourcing. This transparent approach successfully turns interested observers into active testing participants.
The ARC X1 Phased Rollout Plan
The testing cohort will roll out systematically across two distinct phases to gather feedback. The first phase remains reserved exclusively for early members of the original product waitlist. These initial supporters have tracked the development cycle from its earliest announcements.
Following this initial run, the second phase will widen the selection pool starting August 1. New users who register on the waitlist will become eligible for upcoming testing groups. ARC hopes this structured progression allows for methodical optimization without overwhelming their engineering team.
Significantly, the startup clarified that this effort operates as a diagnostic rather than a giveaway. ARC will select participants based on technical parameters, gaming preferences, and physical usage patterns. This targeted selection ensures the hardware undergoes evaluation across a diverse range of player profiles.
Focusing on Real-World Device Performance
Testing parameters will cover physical hardware ergonomics and software execution under realistic travel environments. Participants will evaluate physical control responsiveness, body comfort, and battery life during long play sessions. Additionally, testers must monitor baseline system software stability, frame rates, and game compatibility.
Highlighting this milestone, Kaustubh K. Jadhav, Co-founder of ARC, stated: “Building a gaming handheld isn’t just about engineering great hardware – it’s about understanding how gamers actually play. From the very beginning, we’ve believed in building in public by sharing our journey openly with the community. This beta programme is the next step in that journey, giving gamers an opportunity to experience the ARC X1 before launch and contribute feedback that helps us build an even better product.”
Following the testing phases, the startup plans to share key structural insights publicly. Gamers interested in participating in the user trials can register on the waitlist. This process marks a promising chapter for homegrown hardware innovation within the Indian gaming industry.
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