The mobile video game market is booming and console manufacturers are aware of it. The proof with the arrival of the Backbone One, the new gamepad dedicated to the iPhone.
[Mis à jour le jeudi 28 juillet à 18h44] With a look that is reminiscent of the Playstation 5 DualSense controller, the Playstation Backbone One is a bit like its elders. The latest high-tech creation from the Sony factories was presented to us at the end of July through a blog article and a trailer of about thirty seconds. We were able to discover the look, the features and all the essential information on this new gamepad for mobile phones. Sony intends to shake up the world of small-screen gaming a little, riding on the growing popularity of mobile games and cloud gaming services. We will explain everything to you.
For starters, it’s important to note that the Playstation Backbone One appears to have been designed strictly for Apple phones. Presented as “an essential game on the iPhone”, the brand new Sony controller has a style very close to that of its big sister the DualSense. White color, combo of cross, square, triangle, round, L1, L2, R1, R2 buttons… It’s like being in your living room. If you want to learn more about the features of the Backbone One controller, you can visit the official website of Playstation Backbone.
First of all, you will notice that the design of the controller is quite particular. By leaving you a space in the middle to connect your iPhone, the Backbone One allows you to keep your eyes on both your screen and your buttons. It connects to your iPhone via Lightning Port and does not require batteries or charging beforehand to be functional. Indeed, its power relies on your phone. In addition to its buttons and other triggers, it will be equipped with a 3.5 mm jack port to allow you to use your favorite headphones, even with the latest iPhones. It also has a USB-C port allowing it to be connected to all types of devices, iPad, Mac and PC.
Of course, like any self-respecting mobile device these days, the Playstation Backbone One will also be accompanied by an application dedicated to it. The Backbone App allows you to launch your game without going through various third-party applications. It is compatible with Steam Link, Xbox Remote Play and PS Remote Play, emphasizing its usefulness with regard to cloud gaming. In addition, the Backbone App offers you a subscription service, the Backbone+, at the price of €4.99 per month. This subscription gives you temporary access to other gaming subscriptions like Stadia or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and other Cloud Gaming services.