8BitDo just dropped a surprise announcement ahead of CES 2026: the FlipPad, a flip-style mobile controller specifically designed for portrait-mode gaming. While the company had previously teased a new “Pro” controller for the upcoming tech event, the FlipPad represents something entirely different, a USB-C gamepad that plugs directly into your smartphone and flips onto the bottom half of your screen, reminiscent of the old flip phones we all remember.
The FlipPad embraces 8BitDo’s signature design language, sporting the classic Game Boy DMG color scheme with a black D-Pad, burgundy ABXY buttons, and gray Start and Select buttons. The controller features six additional white buttons whose specific functions haven’t been revealed yet, though they’re likely mapped to common emulator controls like save states, fast forward, and menu access. The USB-C connector ensures a direct wired connection to your device, eliminating the need for Bluetooth pairing or battery charging, it draws power directly from your phone.
The flip mechanism is the standout feature here. Unlike 8BitDo’s other mobile offerings, the FlipPad is purpose-built for vertical gameplay, and 8BitDo confirmed the FlipPad works with both Android and iOS devices, with official Apple support.
The FlipPad won’t arrive until summer 2026, giving competitors like the Abxylute M4, Gamesir P1 and MCON Magnetic Controller plenty of time to eat a little bit of 8BitDo’s lunch. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, though 8BitDo’s track record suggests it will be priced pretty reasonably. The company will showcase the FlipPad at CES 2026 in LVCC Central Hall, Booth #15641, where attendees can get hands-on experience with the device.
Source: 8BitDo on X
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