8BitDo has released a new version of its Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller in collaboration with Xbox. This licensed model now works with iPhones, a change from the previous Android-only version introduced last year. We plan to test this updated controller soon and will share our review. It retains the excellent features of the original Android model.
Typical for 8BitDo products, the Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth controller is affordably priced at $50. This price point is notable, even for 8BitDo, which is known for providing high-quality, customizable controllers at competitive prices. Usually, their Xbox-branded products (like Series X|S controllers, arcade sticks, or keyboards/mice) are slightly more expensive than their non-licensed counterparts. However, this new model costs the same as the older Android-only version and now includes iPhone support. A key difference is the replacement of the standard 8BitDo home button with an Xbox button, designed to access the Xbox Cloud Gaming menu.
The 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller is currently available in black and white. Both versions feature black analog sticks, face buttons using the standard Xbox colors, and the classic D-pad seen on many 8BitDo controllers. The grips are textured and shaped to feel much like typical console or PC gamepads.
With several high-end features, the Ultimate controller competes strongly against mobile controllers costing significantly more. It includes two customizable back buttons, similar to those on 8BitDo`s Ultimate Controllers for PC and Nintendo Switch.
The controller features full-sized analog sticks and triggers that use Hall Effect sensors. These sensors provide a smoother feel, are generally more durable than standard analog components, and are less prone to stick drift issues. Using 8BitDo`s Ultimate Software V2, users can reassign buttons, fine-tune stick and trigger sensitivity, and save up to three personalized configurations.
The adjustable phone clip is designed to hold all iPhone models and most Android phones. It can securely fit devices between 100mm and 170mm (3.93 to 6.69 inches) in length. For context, even a large phone like the iPhone 16 Pro Max fits, as it is 6.42 inches long.
The phone mount provides a secure grip due to several design elements. It has a rubberized surface on the back and side tabs that hold the phone firmly while preventing scratches. The rubber back features a textured pattern of button symbols. Furthermore, the lower corners extend slightly beyond the handles to offer additional stability.
As it connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, the controller can also be used with other devices such as Android tablets, iPads, Macs, Apple TV, and even the Apple Vision Pro. 8BitDo states the 300mAh battery provides up to 13 hours of playtime on a full charge, which takes approximately 1.5 hours.
8BitDo USB-C Mobile Controller Option
Earlier this year, 8BitDo launched a less-publicized mobile controller that connects directly via USB-C. This translucent black model, developed with XR glasses company Viture, currently works only with Android devices and is priced at $79. An iPhone-compatible version is reportedly planned for release later this year. While designed in partnership with Viture, the USB-C controller does not require Viture`s XR glasses, although the glasses themselves are noted as impressive wearable display technology.
How the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Controller Compares to iPhone Competitors
The Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth controller is significantly cheaper than the well-known Backbone One, often priced at half the cost. From a physical design standpoint, the Android version of the 8BitDo controller was personally preferred over the Backbone One. However, the Backbone app offers a compelling console-like interface, unlike 8BitDo`s software which focuses solely on controller settings. The Backbone connects directly via USB-C or Lightning, offering potentially lower input lag compared to Bluetooth, though this difference may not be noticeable to all users. The standard Backbone One lacks back buttons and full-sized sticks; these features are found on the newer, more expensive ($170) Backbone Pro model.
Razer is another major player offering USB-C mobile controllers for both iOS and Android. They recently introduced the Kishi V3 line, starting at $100 for the base model. The $100 Kishi V3 is comparable to the 8BitDo Ultimate or Backbone, featuring TMR electromagnetic sticks, customizable back buttons, and a premium feel. Razer`s lineup extends to the $150 Kishi V3 Pro (for phones and 8-inch tablets) and the $200 Kishi V3 Pro XL (for larger 11-13 inch tablets like the iPad Pro), offering additional features.
The 8BitDo controller isn`t the absolute cheapest option available. GameSir, an increasingly popular controller brand, offers a variety of mobile controllers for iOS and Android, differing in design, connection method, and price. For example, the GameSir X5 Lite, released in April at $35, connects via USB-C to recent iPhones (15/16) and smaller tablets like the iPad Mini. While it lacks back buttons, it does include Hall Effect sticks. GameSir also provides a GameHub app with a launcher interface similar to Backbone`s. Their range includes other notable controllers like the $80 G8 Plus Galileo, a Bluetooth model compatible with iOS, Android, and Nintendo Switch (and potentially Switch 2).
Key Specs of the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller:
- Officially licensed by Xbox for Cloud Gaming
- Available in black and white
- Bluetooth wireless connection
- Cradles iPhone and Android phones
- Stretchable bridge supports devices 3.93-6.69in length
- 2 remappable back buttons
- Hall Effect sticks with metal rings
- Hall Effect triggers
- Tactile bumpers and D-pad
- Xbox Guide button
- Up to 13 hours battery life
- Charges via USB-C
- Customize settings with Ultimate Software V2:
- Adjust stick/trigger sensitivity
- Remap inputs
- Create custom profiles
Other Xbox-Licensed Gear from 8BitDo
The new Ultimate Mobile Controller is the most recent result of the partnership between Xbox and 8BitDo. This year, 8BitDo also released a mechanical keyboard and mouse set featuring the clear green design of the original Xbox. It`s important to note that these accessories are for PC and mobile use, not Xbox consoles. Following these, they launched a matching transparent green Ultimate 3-Mode Controller. This represents 8BitDo`s premium Xbox controller, but it requires a wired connection for use with Xbox consoles. Wireless use (via 2.4GHz) is supported on PC, and Bluetooth is supported on Android.
Later this month, 8BitDo plans to release an all-button, leverless arcade controller. An Xbox-licensed version, priced at $100, is among the available editions. Similar to their previous Arcade Stick for Xbox, this new controller supports 2.4GHz wireless connectivity on Xbox consoles. Currently, the only other 8BitDo wireless controllers for Xbox are the Lite SE accessibility controller and their media remotes.
8BitDo also produces various other wired controllers for Xbox. These include the Pro 2, which features a PlayStation-style analog stick arrangement; the M30, inspired by the Sega Genesis controller; and the more affordable Ultimate C and Mini Controllers.
Several years ago, an Xbox version of 8BitDo`s popular SN30 Pro Controller was released. While visually appealing, this Xbox-branded model is only compatible with Android and Apple devices. In contrast, the standard, unlicensed SN30 Pro works with Switch and PC and has since been updated to include Hall Effect sticks.