8BitDo's mobile controller for Android is now available to buy, but iPhone owners are better off with this Backbone One deal
Back in October, 8BitDo announced the Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller, its first gamepad designed specifically for smartphones. The controller which has been on pre-order since then is now available for purchase on Amazon.
However, iPhone users who have their eyes set on the device will have to look elsewhere as 8BitDo's controller only works with Android smartphones. Nevertheless, there's a pretty good alternative if you own an iPhone 15 or iPhone 16.
The 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller supports Android smartphones with a length of between 100-170mm. Unlike some controllers which have a port that plugs into the phone, it connects over Bluetooth. The controller has hall Effect joysticks and triggers, two pro back paddle buttons, a clicky D-pad, and support for the 8BitDo Ultimate Software where users can remap buttons and customize the precision of the joysticks.
The controller which has a 350mAh rechargeable battery is available to order now on Amazon for $49.99 in black and white color options. If you order today, Amazon says you should expect it to deliver between December 20, 2024 and January 3, 2025.
It is not clear why the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller doesn't work with iPhones since it connects via Bluetooth. Maybe support for iPhones will be added later or an iPhone edition is in the near future. However, if you can't wait, there's a pretty good alternative, and the best part is that it is on sale.
For Cyber Monday, Amazon has the Backbone One Mobile Gaming Controller (2nd Gen) which is compatible with iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series for $69.99, a whopping 30% off its list price of $99.99. There is also a version with a Lightning port for older iPhones available for the same $69.99 price.
The controller which connects via USB-C for reduced latency supports Xbox Remote Play, PlayStation Remote Play, Cloud Gaming, and more. Because it has a USB-C port, it also works with Android smartphones. The Backbone One also has an audio jack and supports pass-through charging.
Backbone also includes a trial to its Backbone+ service which serves as a hub for all your games and also offers features such as game recommendation and screen recording. The Backbone One Mobile Gaming Controller can also be connected to other devices such as a PC and a Mac as a wired controller.
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