8BitDo's FlipPad mobile controller is made for playing games in portrait mode

A few weeks ago, 8BitDo teased the launch of a new “pro” controller at CES 2026. While that controller is expected to be unveiled when the tech event begins on January 6, 8BitDo has surprised us by revealing another controller, which it calls the FlipPad.

The 8BitDo FlipPad is made specifically for smartphones, but while it isn't 8BitDo's first smartphone controller, the FlipPad is designed to play games in portrait mode, unlike the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller (available on Amazon for $49.99), which requires owners to use their phone in landscape mode.

The FlipPad has a Type-C connector that plugs into your phone's USB-C port; it then flips onto the bottom half of the screen like old school cellular flip phones. The controller has a black D-Pad, burgundy ABXY buttons, gray Start and Select buttons, and six white buttons whose functions are currently unknown.

As shown in the reveal video above, the 8BitDo FlipPad has the G Classic design theme 8BitDo frequently uses for its controllers, such as the 8BitDo Pro 3, but we expect there will be other colors.

8BitDo says the controller works with Android and iOS devices and is officially supported by Apple. However, there is no info on pricing, although that may change soon when it has a full announcement at CES later this week. Unfortunately, it will take a while before you can get your hands on the FlipPad, as 8BitDo says it will arrive this summer.

When the 8BitDo FlipPad launches, it will be facing stiff competition from rivals such as the Abxylute M4 Snap-On Controller and the MCON Magnetic Controller.