It sounds like you might understand the two technologies well enough, and just quickly typed your post. If you don’t understand the difference between emulation and FPGA, then please let me know (or just search for the info yourself) as that is important in understanding a lot of the “hype”.
Emulation is emulation, and some people just absolutely want the original experience, warts and all! I prefer emulation and the massive QOL it can (frequently, but not always) give us. But many people want the exact experience they initially had, or are curious about what that experience was if they were too young to live through it or just were not interested in it at the time.
The Pocket also had great-feeling controls, an excellent screen, and a very nostalgic form factor. I think devices like the Pocket and the MISTer definitely have a place in this niche community.
As for why you might not be hearing about it as much these days, I can’t give you a definite answer. Possibilities include:
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The horrendous ordering and shipping systems used for the Pocket may have put off the non-hardcore buyers.
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Newer and better retro handhelds may have removed some of the Pocket’s charm.
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Many people that wanted one already have them, so you aren’t seeing as many posts on social media regarding the device.
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People are waiting for the next big FPGA breakthrough (more systems, better devices, etc.).