Key Takeaways
1. The 8BitDo FlipPad is designed specifically for smartphones and allows gaming in portrait mode.
2. It features a Type-C connector that plugs into the phone’s USB-C port and supports the bottom half of the screen.
3. The controller adopts the G Classic design style and is expected to have various color options.
4. The FlipPad is compatible with both Android and iOS devices and has official support from Apple.
5. The controller will face competition from other brands like the Abxylute M4 and MCON Magnetic Controller upon its release in summer 2026.
A few weeks back, 8BitDo hinted at the release of a new “pro” controller during CES 2026. Although this controller is set to be disclosed when the tech event kicks off on January 6, 8BitDo has caught us off guard by introducing another controller called the FlipPad.
Design and Functionality
The 8BitDo FlipPad is specifically crafted for smartphones; however, it isn’t the company’s first smartphone controller. The FlipPad is uniquely designed for gaming in portrait mode, contrasting with the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller (which can be found on Amazon for $49.99) that requires users to play in landscape mode.
This controller features a Type-C connector that easily plugs into your phone’s USB-C port, flipping to support the bottom half of the screen, reminiscent of vintage flip phones. It comes with a black D-Pad, burgundy ABXY buttons, gray Start and Select buttons, and six white buttons whose purposes are still unclear.
Aesthetic Appeal
As seen in the reveal video above, the 8BitDo FlipPad adopts the G Classic design style that 8BitDo often employs in its controllers, like the 8BitDo Pro 3, and we anticipate that there will be various color options available.
8BitDo claims that this controller is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, with official backing from Apple. However, pricing details are still under wraps, but we might see updates soon with a complete announcement at CES later this week. Sadly, you’ll have to wait a bit longer to get the FlipPad, as 8BitDo mentions it will launch this summer.
Facing Competition
When the 8BitDo FlipPad finally arrives, it will have to contend with tough competition from other brands, such as the Abxylute M4 Snap-On Controller and the MCON Magnetic Controller.
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