Backbone iPhone controllers are now available in these new colors: Hand-on and review

Recently, Backbone introduced new Pink and Purple editions of their Pro and One controllers, focusing on design and casual gaming.

Overview

Backbone has long made snap-in controls for the iPhone and other phones. Earlier this year, they announced the Backbone Pro, which takes the popular Backbone One and adds new features like Bluetooth support and high-quality controls. One of the best things about Backbone controllers is that they’re designed to be universal: you can use them with an iPhone, Android phone, or anything else with a wired connection.

Pink and Purple Editions

This week Backbone announced two new products, Backbone Pro: Pink Edition and Backbone One: Purple Edition. While both controllers are great for gaming, these new colors are designed for those who focus on casual and casual gaming and are looking for a more fun design.

I received the Backbone Pro in pink to review, and the color is really nice and fun!

The experience of playing the game

I’m definitely not a casual gamer, so I’m excited to try out this controller! It feels very high quality and responsive. This was my first time playing mobile games with a controller, and it enhances the experience.

Backbone App

One of the nice things about Backbone controllers is that they are not platform specific. This also extends to their app: you can launch games on your phone, or stream games from GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming. Works with the Steam Link app.

Backbone also offers a subscription service, Backbone+, which offers features like a classic games simulator, rewards for certain games, and more.

Finally, a dedicated orange button gives you one-click access to the Backbone app.

Apple Games

In addition to their app, Backbone includes full integration with Apple Games. It has support for controller profiles, runs on the Apple Games app and supported games, and can open the Apple Games overlay by pressing and holding the Backbone button.

Ports

Both Backbone controllers feature a USB-C port and a headphone jack. The USB-C port allows for transient charging for long gaming sessions.

If you’re someone who prefers an all-wired setup, the USB-C port allows for a wired connection to almost any device. And if you play on your phone, you can use the earphone jack to connect wired headphones instead of relying on Bluetooth.

A backbone emulator

My favorite part of the Backbone+ subscription is the built-in emulator. It is designed to be as simple as possible: just upload your file (obtained legally), and the application automatically handles the saving regions. I tried it with two of my favorite classic games, and playing them with a controller was much better than the touchscreen.

Pink vs Purple

Backbone Pro (pink) offers useful features and enhancements over Backbone One (purple):

• Wireless connectivity with up to 40 hours of battery life
• Two custom back buttons
• Full-size ALPS joysticks and hall effect triggers (vs. “precision stick” and analog triggers)
• Large form factor for improved grip
• Fully customizable with the Rebuild Profiles button in the Backbone app
• Composite grip (compared to a smooth matte finish)

I am very grateful for the wireless functionality. This controller is lighter and more compact than your typical console controller, so it’s perfect for traveling and other gaming on the go.

Availability

The Pink and Purple editions are not exclusive. You can find them here:

Other Backbone Pro and One models are also available on Amazon:

My favorite Apple accessories: