If you’re looking for a way to level up your mobile gaming experience, you might want to check out the BACKBONE One, a sleek and sturdy controller that attaches to your iPhone and transforms it into a handheld console. The BACKBONE One is compatible with any iPhone with a Lightning port, and it comes with a free month of Xbox Game Pass, giving you access to hundreds of games from your phone. Here’s why I think the BACKBONE One is the best mobile gaming controller on the market.
The design
The BACKBONE One is a black plastic device that snaps onto your iPhone and connects via the Lightning port. It has a symmetrical layout, with two analog sticks, a D-pad, four face buttons, two shoulder buttons, and two triggers. It also has a 3.5mm headphone jack, a Lightning port for pass-through charging, and a dedicated button for launching the Backbone app. The controller feels solid and comfortable in the hand, and it doesn’t add much bulk or weight to the phone. It also has a rubber adapter for the iPhone 14 series, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max models, to ensure a snug fit. The BACKBONE One resembles a Nintendo Switch, but with a much better screen and battery life.
The performance
The BACKBONE One delivers a smooth and responsive gaming experience, thanks to the direct connection to the Lightning port. There is virtually no latency or lag between the controller and the phone, which is crucial for fast-paced games like Call of Duty or Fortnite. The analog sticks are precise and smooth, the buttons are tactile and responsive, and the triggers are satisfying and adjustable. The controller also has a built-in microphone and speaker, which can be used for voice chat or game audio. The BACKBONE One works with any controller-supported iOS game, and it also supports PS Remote Play, Xbox Remote Play, and Steam Link, allowing you to stream console and PC games to your phone from anywhere. The controller also has a haptic feedback feature, which adds a subtle vibration to your gameplay.
The app
The BACKBONE One comes with a free month of BACKBONE+, a subscription service that unlocks exclusive features and perks for the controller. The BACKBONE app serves as a hub for all your games, and it also lets you record, edit, and share your gameplay clips, connect with friends and other players, discover new games, and play on any screen with AirPlay or HDMI. The app also has a smart notification system, which lets you know when your friends are online, when new games are available, or when your battery is low. The app is easy to use and navigate, and it integrates seamlessly with the controller. You can still use the BACKBONE One without the subscription, but you’ll miss out on some of the benefits.
The verdict
The BACKBONE One is a game-changer for mobile gaming. It turns your iPhone into a powerful and portable gaming device, with a high-quality controller, a huge library of games, and a versatile app. It’s also affordable, at $99, and it comes with a free month of Xbox Game Pass, which is a great deal. Whether you’re a casual or hardcore gamer, the BACKBONE One will enhance your gaming experience and make you forget about your console or PC. The BACKBONE One is the ultimate mobile gaming controller, and I highly recommend it.
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