8BitDo has built a reputation over the years for producing top-notch gaming peripherals, but their latest creation, the FlipPad, looks set to genuinely shake things up in the world of mobile gaming. Although the FlipPad wont be officially unveiled until CES 2026, we’ve managed to sneak a peek at this brand new flip-style gamepad.
Where mobile play unfolds.
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 (@8BitDo) January 4, 2026
As the name implies, it is developed with mobile gaming in mind and is marketed as the ideal method to receive a console-quality experience right in the palm of your hand. Furthermore, it is available on both iOS and Android smartphones, and Apple appears to be completely supportive; you should be able to get your hands on it in the summer of 2026.
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The FlipPad’s design strikes the ideal balance between unconventional thinking and good old-fashioned common sense. You get a stylish retro-style layout with a directional pad, four face buttons, and two shoulder buttons, all neatly tucked away in a sleek white case with a splash of purple – and it all clips securely onto your phone. When you need it, it flips out of the way, and when you’re finished, it’s neatly stowed away to preserve your valuable phone ports from harm.
One of the FlipPad’s noteworthy features is its ability to play games in portrait mode (or vertical, if you will). Most controllers are made for landscape mode, but the FlipPad is all about vertical, which is OK because, let’s be honest, most of us like to play that way. That’s especially fantastic news for anyone who enjoys platformers or rhythm games.
For iOS users, the fact that it’s got Apple’s official seal of approval basically means it just works with their system without requiring any specialized software. There’s even a chance that you can get some fancy haptic feedback and bespoke button mapping thrown in as a bonus. For Android users, its a no-brainer, as it’s just as simple to get up and running and supports a wide range of games.
