8BitDo has partnered with Xbox on a new edition of its Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller. Unlike the original model that 8BitDo debuted last holiday season, the Xbox-licensed model supports iPhone. We’ll be testing the revised model in the coming weeks and will update this article with our impressions, but it has the same features as the Android-only original–and that controller is great.
Like all 8BitDo controllers, the Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth carries a budget-friendly price: $50. But even from a manufacturer known for offering customizable pro-style controllers with high-end performance at low prices, the $50 price is a bit surprising. 8BitDo’s other collaborations with Xbox–Series X|S controllers, arcade sticks, a keyboard and matching mouse–generally cost a bit more than comparable versions without the Xbox license. But the $50 price here matches the cost of the Android version, and the new one supports iPhone and Android. It swaps the normal 8BitDo home button for an Xbox button, which can be used to pull up the Xbox Cloud Gaming guide menu.
8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller for iOS & Android (Black)
$50 | Officially licensed by Xbox
The 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller is ready to ship now at Amazon with Prime delivery. It’s available in two colors, black or white. Both models have black sticks, face buttons with the standard Xbox color scheme, and the retro-style D-pad found on most 8BitDo controller. It has tactile handles that are contoured to look and feel quite similar to a console/PC controller.
The Ultimate’s numerous premium components and features make it a serious competitor to mobile controllers that retail for double the price (or more). It has two remappable back buttons that will feel familiar to those who have used one of 8BitDo’s Ultimate Controllers for PC or Nintendo Switch.
The full-sized thumbsticks utilize Hall Effect sensors, which offer a smoother feel and are generally more durable than conventional analog sticks because you don’t have to worry about stick drift. The right and left triggers are activated via Hall Effect sensors as well. With 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software V2, you can remap inputs, adjust stick and trigger sensitivity, and create up to three custom profiles.
The stretchable bridge is large enough to fit all iPhone models and most Android phones. As long as your device is within the range of 100-170mm (3.93-6.69in) in length, you’re good to go. For reference, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, Apple’s largest edition so far, is 6.42 inches.
The phone cradle offers a secure fit thanks to a few design features. It has a rubberized back and tabs on each side to grip your phone while also preventing scratches. The back sheet of rubber is dotted with a series of button symbols that create a textured feel. Additionally, the bottom corners jut out slightly from the handles for extra support.
Since it connects wirelessly to your device via Bluetooth, you can also use it with Android tablets, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and even the Apple Vision Pro. 8BitDo says the 300mAh battery offers up to 13 hours on a full charge (1.5 hours to recharge).
8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Bluetooth Controller for iOS & Android (White)
$50 | Officially licensed by Xbox
Here’s a quick rundown of the specs, which are virtually identical to its predecessor. But like all Xbox-licensed 8BitDo controllers, this one doesn’t have a turbo button.
- 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 ringso
- 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 released a mobile controller that plugs into your smartphone via USB-C, but it has flown a bit under the radar. Made in collaboration with XR glasses manufacturer Viture, the translucent black 8BitDo Mobile Controller with USB-C is only compatible with Android and costs $79. An iPhone version of the Viture x 8BitDo Ultimate is in the works and is expected to release this year. You don’t need Viture XR Glasses to use the USB-C version, but we’d recommend checking out the XR glasses regardless because the wearable display tech is immensely impressive.
