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Bitmo Lab has just announced The GameBaby – an idea so obvious it’s surprising it hasn’t been done before. While mobile controllers such as those from GameSir all add console-like controls to your Apple or Android Smartphone, they are very much an attachment that can be whipped out from a bag and attached when needed.
The GameBaby differs in that it doubles as a phone case when not in use and a handheld gaming device when it is.
Bitmo Lab is a recent technology collab between JSAUX – better known for many Steam Deck accessories and SSPAI and the GameBaby is the second iPhone case from the company, but the first for retro-gaming fans.
The GameBaby case splits into two parts and lives on the back of the phone during normal phone operation. When you want to play a game you simply detach the controller section from the back and slide it over the front of your screen to provide Nintendo-esque controls beneath the portion of the screen used by the game. When playtime is over, reverse the process and the GameBaby reverts to a more traditional protective phone case.
Bitmo Lab says the GameBaby is compatible with multiple button layouts and supports GameBoy, GameBoy Color, GameBoy Advance, and NES setups and there will be custom emulator skins for various handheld console layouts.
The GameBaby requires no power as it does not require Bluetooth and has no electronic connection to the phone, rather it provides physical buttons for on-screen controls underneath.
The GameBaby is available to pre-order for the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the, as yet unannounced, iPhone 16 Pro Max, with expected shipping for both units listed as October this year.
Priced at $39.99 after the pre-order period there is 50 percent off until launch meaning it can be picked up for less than $20 but this is limited to the first 1,000 units sold.
