Tue. Oct 7th, 2025

Backbone Smartphone Controllers Receive Cozy Makeover with New Colorways

Backbone smartphone controllers, traditionally offered in classic black and white, are now available in two new vibrant, limited-edition colorways. Exclusively at Target, gamers can purchase the $170 Backbone Pro: Pink Edition or the $100 Backbone One: Purple Edition. These stylish new models will be available online starting October 5th, with in-store sales beginning October 6th.

Introducing the Backbone Pro: Pink Edition

The Backbone Pro, a premium smartphone add-on launched earlier this year, is designed for serious mobile gamers. This updated model features a USB-C connection, making it compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, as well as a wide range of Android phones. Noteworthy enhancements include larger grips with a textured finish for improved comfort, full-sized ALPS analog sticks, precise Hall Effect triggers, two remappable back buttons, and `carbon-pill` face buttons engineered for quieter presses. All the essential inputs expected from a modern controller are present, ensuring a seamless gaming experience whether you`re playing Genshin Impact or Call of Duty. Its advanced app functionality and overall ergonomic and customization improvements make it a significant upgrade over the original Backbone One.

Discover the Backbone One: Purple Edition

While the Backbone One isn`t as feature-rich as its Pro counterpart, it remains a budget-friendly controller that delivers a traditional gaming experience on your smartphone. The Gen 2 model boasts a tweaked design for enhanced comfort, featuring an improved D-pad and more responsive face buttons. Using the Backbone One is incredibly straightforward: simply snap it onto your smartphone, and you`re ready to play. There`s no need to remove your phone`s protective case, and these devices offer broad compatibility with popular cloud gaming services like PlayStation Remote Play and Xbox Cloud Gaming.

For those who prefer a more understated look, both the Backbone Pro and Backbone One are still readily available in their standard black and white color schemes. Pricing remains consistent across all versions:

Backbone One Models

  • Gen 2 (USB-C): Black – $100, White – $100
  • Gen 2 (Lightning): Black – $100, White – $100

Backbone Pro Models

  • Black – $170

Tablet users seeking a high-quality gaming experience might also consider the recently launched Razer Kishi V3 Pro series of controllers. While generally pricier, these Razer devices are known for their premium components.

Specifically, the Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL is tailored for larger tablets, including 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro and Air models. The Razer Kishi V3 Pro, featuring identical high-end hardware, is designed for smaller 8-inch tablets and iPhones.

By Bramwell Nightingale

A Toronto-based gaming journalist with over eight years of experience covering the North American gaming industry. Started his career writing for independent gaming blogs before establishing himself as a reliable source for breaking gaming news. Specializes in AAA game releases and studio acquisitions across Canada and the US. His investigative approach to gaming industry developments has earned him respect among developers and publishers alike

Related Post