8BitDo has released a new edition of its Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller in collaboration with Xbox. This latest model supports iPhones, a key difference from the previous version which was exclusive to Android devices. We plan to review this updated controller shortly and will share our findings. It retains the features of the excellent original Android-only controller.
Retailing at a budget-friendly $50, the Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth controller continues 8BitDo`s tradition of affordable, high-performance peripherals. While 8BitDo`s other Xbox-licensed products often carry a premium compared to their standard counterparts, this new model matches the $50 price of the Android-only version, surprisingly *adding* iPhone support at no extra cost. It also swaps the standard 8BitDo home button for an Xbox button, used to access the Xbox Cloud Gaming menu.
The controller is currently available and comes in black or white. Both versions feature black thumbsticks, face buttons with the classic Xbox color scheme, and the retro-style D-pad characteristic of many 8BitDo controllers. Its tactile handles are shaped to resemble and feel like standard console/PC controllers.
Boasting several premium components and features, this controller stands out against mobile alternatives that cost significantly more. It includes two remappable back buttons, a familiar feature for users of 8BitDo`s Ultimate Controllers for PC or Nintendo Switch.
The full-sized thumbsticks employ Hall Effect sensors, known for providing a smoother feel and enhanced durability, effectively eliminating the risk of stick drift common in conventional analog sticks. The left and right triggers also utilize Hall Effect technology. 8BitDo`s Ultimate Software V2 allows users to customize inputs, fine-tune stick and trigger sensitivity, and save up to three distinct profiles.
The adjustable phone clip is designed to securely hold all iPhone models and most Android phones. It accommodates devices with a length between 100mm and 170mm (3.93-6.69 inches). For context, even the largest iPhone model to date, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, measures 6.42 inches.
The phone cradle ensures a secure fit through several design elements. It features a rubberized back and side tabs for gripping your phone while preventing scratches. The texture on the back rubber sheet, dotted with button symbols, provides added grip. Furthermore, the bottom corners slightly extend from the handles for extra support.
Connecting wirelessly via Bluetooth, the controller is compatible not only with iPhones and Android phones but also with Android tablets, iPads, Macs, Apple TV, and even the Apple Vision Pro. 8BitDo estimates the 300mAh battery provides up to 13 hours of playtime on a full charge, which takes about 1.5 hours.
Key Specifications:
- 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
8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Controller with USB-C
Earlier this year, 8BitDo launched a different mobile controller that connects directly via USB-C. Developed in partnership with Viture, a maker of XR glasses, this translucent black controller is currently only compatible with Android devices and costs $79. An iPhone version of the Viture x 8BitDo Ultimate is expected to release later this year. While you don`t need Viture XR Glasses to use the USB-C controller, the article notes that the wearable display technology is quite impressive.
8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Controller vs. the competition for iPhone
The Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller is significantly more affordable than the popular Backbone One, typically retailing at half its price. While the Backbone One Gen 2 is currently available for $70 (down from $100) and the Gen 1 for $60, 8BitDo`s offering remains competitive. The author previously preferred the original 8BitDo Mobile Controller for Android over the Backbone One, though they acknowledge Backbone`s app provides a useful console-like launcher interface, unlike 8BitDo`s software which focuses solely on controller configuration. The Backbone connects via the phone`s USB-C or Lightning port, generally offering lower input lag than Bluetooth, though this difference may not be noticeable to everyone. Unlike the 8BitDo Ultimate, the standard Backbone One lacks back buttons and full-sized thumbsticks; these features are found on the more expensive Backbone Pro, priced at $170.
Razer also offers well-regarded USB-C mobile controllers for both iOS and Android. They recently launched the Kishi V3 series, starting at $100. The base $100 Kishi V3 model is a strong competitor to the 8BitDo Ultimate and Backbone, featuring TMR electromagnetic sticks, remappable back buttons, and a high-quality build. The $150 Kishi V3 Pro is compatible with phones and 8-inch tablets and includes additional features like remappable “claw” bumpers and Razer`s mecha-tactile buttons. The $200 Kishi V3 Pro XL is designed for larger tablets, specifically 11- to 13-inch models such as the iPad Pro.
8BitDo`s offering isn`t the absolute cheapest among competitors. GameSir, an increasingly prominent controller manufacturer, provides a variety of mobile controllers for iOS and Android with different designs, connection types, and price points. For example, the GameSir X5 Lite, released in April at $35, connects via USB-C to iPhone 15/16 and smaller tablets like the iPad Mini. While it lacks back buttons, it features Hall Effect sticks. GameSir also has its own app, GameHub, with a launcher interface similar to Backbone`s. Another option is the GameSir G8 Plus Galileo, an $80 Bluetooth controller compatible with iOS, Android, and Nintendo consoles, including the upcoming Switch 2. A limited-time deal saw the G8 Plus available for $50.
More Xbox-licensed 8BitDo Gaming Gear
The new Ultimate Mobile Controller is the most recent collaboration between Xbox and 8BitDo. Earlier this year, 8BitDo introduced a mechanical gaming keyboard (Retro 87) and mouse, designed with a transparent green theme inspired by the original Xbox console. These accessories are compatible with PC and mobile devices but not Xbox consoles themselves. Following these, a matching transparent green Ultimate 3-Mode Controller was released. This is considered 8BitDo`s premium Xbox controller, though like most conventional wired 8BitDo Xbox controllers, its wireless functionality is limited to PC (via 2.4GHz) and Android (via Bluetooth), requiring a wired connection for Xbox consoles.
Later this month, 8BitDo plans to release an all-button arcade controller. A $100 edition licensed by Xbox is available for preorder. Similar to the original 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Xbox, this leverless controller supports 2.4GHz wireless connectivity on Xbox consoles. Other than the Lite SE accessibility controller and media remotes, these are the only 8BitDo wireless controllers compatible with Xbox.
8BitDo also produces several other wired controllers for Xbox, including the Pro 2, which features a PlayStation-style analog stick layout, the M30 inspired by the Sega Genesis, and the more budget-friendly Ultimate C and Mini controllers.
Several years ago, 8BitDo launched an Xbox edition of its popular SN30 Pro Controller. While aesthetically pleasing, this version is only compatible with Android and Apple devices, unlike the unlicensed model which works with Switch and PC and has been updated to include Hall Effect sticks.
Other 8BitDo Xbox-Licensed Products:
- 8BitDo Retro R8 Wireless Mouse (PC, Mac, Mobile)
- 8BitDo Retro 87 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (PC, Mac, Mobile)
- 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller (Xbox, PC, Android)
- 8BitDo Pro 2 Wired Controller (Xbox, PC)
- 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller (Mobile)
- 8BitDo All-Button Wireless Arcade Controller (Xbox, PC)
- 8BitDo Wireless Arcade Fight Stick (Xbox, PC)
- 8BitDo SN30 Pro Bluetooth Controller (Mobile)
- 8BitDo M30 Sega-Inspired Wired Controller (Xbox)
- 8BitDo Lite SE Wireless Accessibility Controller (Xbox, PC)
- 8BitDo Ultimate Wired Controller (Xbox, PC)
- 8BitDo Ultimate C Wired Controller (Xbox, PC)
- 8BitDo Ultimate Mini Wired Controller (Xbox, PC)
- 8BitDo Xbox Media Remote – Short Edition
- 8BitDo Xbox Media Remote – Long Edition
- 8BitDo Xbox Controller Charging Dock
- 8BitDo Xbox Dual Controller Charging Dock