8BitDo’s $50 Xbox-Licensed iPhone Controller Launches
▼ Summary
– 8BitDo’s new Xbox-licensed Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller supports both iPhone and Android, priced at $50, matching the cost of the Android-only original.
– The controller features Hall Effect sensors for sticks and triggers, two remappable back buttons, and customizable settings via Ultimate Software V2.
– It has a stretchable bridge compatible with devices 3.93-6.69 inches long, a secure phone cradle, and a 13-hour battery life with USB-C charging.
– Compared to competitors like Backbone One and Razer Kishi V3, the 8BitDo controller offers premium features at half the price, though some rivals have unique perks like dedicated apps or USB-C connectivity.
– 8BitDo has multiple Xbox-licensed products, including keyboards, mice, and arcade sticks, but most wired Xbox controllers lack wireless functionality on Xbox consoles.
Gaming enthusiasts looking for an affordable yet high-quality mobile controller now have a compelling new option from 8BitDo. The company’s latest release, the Xbox-licensed Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller, brings premium features to iPhone and Android users at just $50. This marks a significant expansion from its Android-only predecessor, now offering broader compatibility without sacrificing performance.
Priced competitively, the controller maintains the hallmark quality 8BitDo is known for, including Hall Effect sensors for both thumbsticks and triggers, eliminating concerns about stick drift. The design includes two remappable back buttons, a retro-style D-pad, and a comfortable grip that mimics traditional console controllers. A stretchable phone cradle accommodates devices up to 6.69 inches, making it compatible with even the largest iPhones.
What sets this model apart is its official Xbox licensing, featuring an Xbox Guide button for quick access to cloud gaming menus. Despite the partnership, the price remains identical to the Android version, a pleasant surprise given the added functionality. The 300mAh battery delivers up to 13 hours of gameplay, and customization is seamless through 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software V2, allowing adjustments to sensitivity and button mapping.
For those comparing alternatives, the Backbone One and Razer Kishi V3 offer different trade-offs. While Backbone’s USB-C connection provides lower latency, it lacks back buttons and full-sized sticks unless opting for the pricier Pro model. Meanwhile, Razer’s Kishi V3 lineup starts at $100, with higher-tier versions adding tablet support and advanced features. 8BitDo’s offering stands out as a budget-friendly yet feature-rich middle ground.
Beyond mobile controllers, 8BitDo continues to expand its Xbox-licensed lineup, including mechanical keyboards, arcade sticks, and wired controllers. Later this month, an all-button arcade controller will join the roster, further cementing the brand’s reputation for versatile gaming peripherals.
Whether you’re diving into cloud gaming or seeking a reliable mobile companion, the Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller delivers impressive value. Available in black or white, it’s shipping now on Amazon, ready to elevate your on-the-go gaming sessions.
(Source: GameSpot)
