8BitDo has introduced a new gamepad for Android and Apple smartphones that connects via a USB-C port, but only supports games in portrait mode because it covers part of the screen.
8BitDo has introduced a new gamepad for Android and Apple smartphones that connects via a USB-C port, but only supports games in portrait mode because it covers part of the screen.
The 8BitDo FlipPad is designed specifically for smartphones and is designed for playing games in portrait mode, unlike the other 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller, which requires using the phone in landscape mode.
The FlipPad has a Type-C connector that plugs into your phone’s USB-C port; it then folds down onto the bottom half of the screen, like old clamshell phones. The controller has a black D-Pad, burgundy ABXY buttons, gray Start and Select buttons, and six white buttons. With such a gamepad, the smartphone begins to resemble a portable console in the spirit of Nintendo Game Boy.
As shown in the video above, the 8BitDo FlipPad features the G Classic design that 8BitDo often uses for its controllers, such as the 8BitDo Pro 3, but we expect there will be other colors as well.
Where mobile play unfolds.
— 8BitDo (@8BitDo) January 4, 2026
Introducing 8BitDo FlipPad — a flip-style gamepad designed for mobile gaming.
Compatible with iOS and Android devices. Officially supported by Apple.
Coming Summer 2026.
Experience it first at @CES 2026.
LVCC Central Hall · Booth #15641 #FlipPad … pic.twitter.com/snddY5OaMx
8BitDo notes that the FlipPad works with Android and iOS smartphones and has official support from Apple. The price of the gamepad is currently unknown, but its release is scheduled for summer 2026.
