The new controller works with both your smartphone, consoles and PC. And the new app can emulate Game Boy Advance and Nintendo 64.
Backbone has announced a new controller, the Backbone Pro, aiming to replace both your smartphone controller and your PC/console controller at the same time.
At first glance, the Pro looks like its predecessor. It has two halves, connected by a strip, that can expand to house and connect to your smartphone via USB-C. The Pro is heavier than the non-Pro variant, but that functionality remains identical to its cheaper sibling.
What is, however, new is the so-called Wireless Mode. When not connected to a smartphone, you can hook the Pro up to any console, PC, or any other device that supports Bluetooth, well, except for the PlayStation and the Switch since it uses an Xbox-style layout. Though I'm expecting Backbone to bring dedicated controllers for these platforms too, like they did in the past.
The Pro is also different to what came before in other ways. It has full-sized analogue sticks, two back buttons (one on each side), and is sturdier — plus because of the Bluetooth-function, it has a built-in battery that apparently lasts up to 40 hours. (I have a review unit on its way to me, so I'll be sure to put that claim to the test.)
Software is the co-star
For the Pro, Backbone created a new version of their Backbone app, adding a whole bunch of features to dial in the controller exactly to your needs. It then remembers your different settings for the different platforms you connect it to.
But another big update in their app is the integration of an emulator to run retro games, and for now, the app supports NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and Nintendo 64, with support for more cores coming soon, according to this FAQ.
And, like previous versions of the app, Backbone supports a whole bunch of platforms, from cloud streaming services like Amazon Luna and GeForce Now, to built-in games (from the App Store, Play Store, and more).
As mentioned, I have a review unit on its way to me, but if you want to preorder the device now, you can get it for $169. It ships on May 20th.
Backbone Labs, Inc.