ARC, an Indian gaming hardware company focused on developing an accessible handheld gaming ecosystem, has announced the launch of its pre-launch beta testing programme for its flagship device, the ARC X1.
The initiative aims to provide selected community members early access to the handheld, allowing them to submit structured feedback to help refine the product ahead of its official commercial release across India.
Expanding the “Building in Public” Philosophy
The beta programme aligns with ARC’s ongoing philosophy of “building in public.” Throughout the development of the ARC X1, the company has openly documented its progress—sharing updates on early prototypes, industrial design choices, component sourcing, and engineering challenges.
By launching this programme, ARC is transitioning its community from passive observers to active participants in the product development lifecycle.
Phased Rollout and Selection Process
The testing initiative will be rolled out in two distinct phases:
- Phase 1: Open exclusively to existing members of the ARC X1 waitlist, prioritizing early supporters who have followed the device’s development from the outset.
- Phase 2: Starting August 1, new users who sign up for the waitlist will become eligible for consideration in subsequent testing cohorts.
ARC has clarified that the initiative is designed as a structured product testing programme rather than a promotional campaign or giveaway. Participants will be selected based on specific technical testing requirements to ensure a diverse cross-section of gaming preferences, play styles, and usage patterns.
Focus on Real-World Performance
Selected participants will test the ARC X1 across various everyday gaming scenarios. ARC plans to collect data and feedback across several key areas, including:
- Hardware & Ergonomics: Controls, physical comfort, and battery life performance.
- Software & Gaming: System software experience, frame rates, and overall gameplay across different titles.
While internal testing provides baseline metrics, real-world usage often highlights edge cases and user habits that are difficult to replicate in controlled environments. ARC noted that while final product decisions will remain guided by engineering feasibility, development timelines, and the core product vision, community insights will serve as a vital input for fine-tuning the end-user experience.
Community Engagement and Next Steps
In line with its focus on transparency, ARC plans to share key learnings and insights gathered from the beta testing phases with the broader public as development progresses.
Gamers interested in participating in the beta testing programme can join the official ARC X1 waitlist, from which eligible candidates will be selected for upcoming cohorts.
Regarding this, Kaustubh K. Jadhav, Co-founder, ARC, said:
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.