Since arriving in 2020, the Backbone One has redefined mobile gaming controllers with its innovative form factor and polished software experience. The telescopic gamepad earned its reputation by turning your smartphone into a Nintendo Switch-like handheld, offering tactile controls for streaming services, remote play, and even native mobile titles.
Now, Backbone is expanding beyond that with the Backbone Pro, a device that maintains the iconic split design of the One but with loftier ambitions. While the One excelled at making your phone a better gaming device, the Pro is looking to evolve your entire gaming ecosystem, aiming to be the singular controller for all your gaming needs, regardless of what screen you’re staring at.
THE PREMIUM PIVOT
Built specifically “for players who demand more,” the Backbone Pro controller features full-sized ALPS joysticks, rear buttons, and an ergonomic shape that’s clearly designed for longer play sessions. The analog sticks are larger this time around and feature anti-friction rings and concave caps for improved precision. The face buttons have moved away from the retro-style clicky sensation of the original to something softer and more in line with traditional modern console controllers.
Visually, the Pro maintains the distinctive split design of its predecessor, but everything feels more substantial. The grips appear to be considerably larger than the One, which should feel more substantial in your hand. The controller is larger overall, but that size increase translates directly to improved ergonomics, which was a notable weakness of the original.
WIRELESS FREEDOM
What truly separates the Pro from both its predecessor and many competitors is how much freedom you get with your gameplay. The key difference with the Pro is that you don’t need to dock a phone to use it (via USB-C). It can also connect over Bluetooth to numerous other consoles and devices while giving you up to 40 hours of untethered play across any compatible screen.
That changes everything about how this controller fits into your gaming life. It no longer serves the sole purpose of aiding your phone play. You can now hook it up wirelessly to your iPad or Mac, a Samsung Smart TV running Xbox Cloud, or even a gaming laptop. What’s more, the app remembers your devices so you don’t have to recalibrate every time you’re looking to swap screens. The controller supports input customization within the official app, allowing you to quickly set up custom profiles, remap buttons, adjust trigger and stick sensitivity, and create dead zones. This time, Backbone seems to have thought about everything.
While the hardware improvements are substantial, Backbone’s software upgrades are crucial. Helping position the Pro as less of an accessory but a distinct device, the brand is also introducing a built-in emulator on iOS and Android for NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, although it’s currently in beta.
SPEC SHEET
Model: Backbone Pro
Connectivity: USB-C or Bluetooth
Battery Life: 40 hours
Compatibility: iPhone 15/16, Android, PC, Mac, iPad, Smart TVs
Release Date: May 20
Price: $170
PRICING & AVAILABILITY
Available to order today via Backbone’s website, the Backbone Pro is priced at $170 (about $70 more than the One) and will begin shipping on May 20.
Recap
Backbone Pro
Backbone elevates its original One smartphone controller to give you more freedom with the Backbone Pro, allowing you to game across any screen, from both USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
