8BitDo surprised followers by unveiling a new controller called the FlipPad, before the start of CES 2026, although it had hinted weeks ago at the launch of a new “Pro” controller during the same event, scheduled to begin on January 6.
The company directed this product specifically for smartphones, but what is different this time is that the FlipPad is designed for playing in a vertical viewing position, unlike the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller unit that requires using the phone horizontally. This trend targets games that inherently depend on the vertical position of the screen.
The controller connects to the phone via the USB-C port, and then folds onto the lower half of the screen in a manner similar to old foldable phones. The design includes a black directional pad, burgundy ABXY buttons, gray Start and Select buttons, in addition to six white buttons whose functions have not yet been determined.
The FlipPad carries the G Classic design identity that 8BitDo used in its controllers, such as the Pro 3, with additional colors expected to be released later. The company also confirmed the unit’s compatibility with Android and iOS devices, with official support from Apple.
On the other hand, 8BitDo has not yet revealed the price of the console, with full details to be announced during CES later this week. The company explained that the availability of the FlipPad in the market will not be before the summer of this year.
At launch, the FlipPad will compete directly with other mobile controllers such as the Abxylute M4 Snap-On Controller and MCON Magnetic Controller.
