Microsoft is putting more and more focus on Xbox Cloud Gaming these days, and today's announcement of an OG Xbox-themed 'Backbone' controller fits in with that new strategy rather nicely.
Coming in at $109.99, the Xbox-themed Backbone controller is available now in the US via the accessory maker's website - and the new gamepad aims to "transform your phone into the ultimate companion for gaming on mobile".
Up above, you can see the new accessory in all its glory - and down below are some examples of the Backbone app running with Xbox Cloud Gaming and recording Xbox clips:
We've never actually used Backbone's mobile gaming software, but it appears to offer up a more streamlined way to play mobile games on iOS and Android - and it supports multiple platforms including Xbox and PlayStation. Microsoft is now getting further behind the platform with this licensed, OG Xbox-style mobile controller.
"The Backbone app unifies your gaming experience, connecting your favorite titles, streaming services, and social features into one intuitive hub."
Finally, Microsoft adds that anyone who picks up this controller gets one month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to try out Xbox Cloud Gaming - and the device is "coming to additional markets" in April 2025.
Think you might buy one of these, mobile gamers? Talk to us about the Xbox Backbone controller down below.
[source news.xbox.com]
Comments 12
I sure hope this isn't the "Xbox Handheld" the rumours have been touting recently. I'm torn between a rock and a hard place right now wanting to buy a Steam Deck or something similar, but if Xbox offers a device that can play my PC and Xbox libraries all-in-one, I would rather wait for that. I just need to know it's actually going to happen and I'm not waiting for nothing.
I can endorse the Backbone as a very solid bit of kit that works brilliantly on my phone (via USB-C so less latency) or via cable with iPad. HOWEVER there is one problem. Their app, which is very good, requires an annual subscription to get the most out of it, otherwise it's features are nerfed. It's a shame because everything else is excellent. I wouldn't have even minded a one off app-cost or minor annual fee but £35 a year seems FAR too much for this and drags the whole package down. A shame, as it was almost perfect.
@RegnumSolipsi It's not. The rumour is that the 2025 Xbox handheld will be an ASUS ROG Ally with Xbox branding and function like a Windows PC.
Then, it's believed they're working on a dedicated first-party handheld for 2027.
More details here:
https://www.purexbox.com/guides/xbox-handheld-everything-we-know-so-far-including-the-latest-rumours
@themightyant I enjoyed my old backbone until I upgraded my iPhone to one of the newer USB C models and could no longer use it. The Steamdeck I got last year has meant I never needed to replace it as I can do all my streaming and more from that. The annual subscription is a shameless money grab though, especially when the backbone itself is pretty pricey for what it does.
Not for me. I need a new phone before I even consider it. I'm still rocking the old Pixel 4a O_o
lol, I'm happy it's not the size of a dinner plate. Maybe I can actually hold it.
$109?
LMAO! No. Just no.
Lets hope they fixed the drifting issue. I have lost at least 5 controllers to drifting.
No thanks, so much money for playing games with streaming. 😂 Also it doesn't look that good.
$180.80 Canadian before shipping. ***** off.
i just a controller
@CRANIAL why would they when they can get people to spend more money replacing them same with sony
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