Gaming on your phone is something we’ve gotten used to, but it’s not always the easiest thing to do. There’s a reason why most of us started out with joysticks, buttons, and D-pads. Tactility is an essential component to retro games, since they were designed as such. In our modern world of emulators and throwback consoles, we need something just as physical, even on our phones.
Known for its nostalgia-infused tech accessories, 8BitDo recently unveiled a plug-in controller for retro gaming on your phone, hoping to change the portable emulator experience and maybe even evolve modern takes on classics.
It all Started with Famicom Tributes
Launching back in 2013 as a love letter to Nintendo’s Famicom, 8BitDo has built its reputation on the simple principle that retro aesthetics shouldn’t sacrifice functionality. The Shenzhen-based company started with wireless controllers that put NES/SNES design on Bluetooth devices, eventually earning official licensing from Microsoft, Nintendo, and Apple.
They’ve become beloved for how well their products actually perform, and have even expanded to computer accessories like keyboards, mice, speakers, and even calculators.
A Different Kind of Flip phone
The FlipPad takes that philosophy and applies it to a USB-C gamepad that attaches directly to your phone’s port. It magnetically clips onto the bottom half of your display using a hinged swivel mechanism. Making your smartphone look like a Game Boy, the controls are condensed into a remarkably slim package that barely rises a few millimeters off the screen. The layout is straightforward, featuring a D-pad, four face buttons, start and select, and six auxiliary buttons for screenshots or quick menu access. There are no thumbsticks here since this is purely for emulators and portrait-oriented titles. However, we might see something with a joystick in the future.
What stands out is the build quality, something 8BitDo has nailed throughout its product line. Early hands-on reports mention clicky buttons with satisfying travel despite the controller’s thinness. The underside features a rubberized surface to protect your screen and prevent slippage during gameplay. It possesses a functional design that doesn’t overthink itself, which is exactly what a dedicated emulation controller should be.
Spec Sheet
Model: 8BitDo FlipPad
Connectivity: USB-C (wired)
Compatibility: iOS and Android (officially supported by Apple)
Layout: D-pad, 4 face buttons, start/select, 6 auxiliary buttons
Release Date: Summer 2026
Price: TBA
Pricing & Availability
Debuting last week at CES, the 8BitDo FlipPad arrives sometime during summer 2026, with pricing still under wraps.
Recap
8BitDo FlipPad Smartphone Gaming Controller
8BitDo just announced the FlipPad, a slim USB-C controller that clips onto your phone for retro gaming and emulators, basically turning your smartphone into a proper handheld. It’s launching summer 2026 with no price yet.
