Thanks to recent firmware updates, select 8BitDo game controllers now offer native support for Apple devices running the most recent version of their operating systems.
Multiple gaming controllers from the company now support Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Their controller will need to have the latest 8BitDo software update, and their Apple devices need to be running tvOS 16.3, iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, or macOS 13.2. Apple included support for 8BitDo controllers with the rollout of iOS 16 but required 8BitDo to roll out updated firmware.
Controllers that are now compatible with Apple devices include:
- 8Bitdo Lite SE
- 8BitDo SN30 Pro
- 8BitDo Pro 2
- 8BitDo Pro+
- 8BitDo SN30 Pro for Android
- 8BitDo Ultimate Controller 2.4g
The native software update from 8BitDo allows Apple devices to recognize the controllers as Apple-specific controllers rather than just generic Nintendo controllers. That allows gamers to fully use all of the controller’s features, allowing the use of more buttons on select controllers than would be available on controllers recognized by the system as a generic product.
As noted by 9to5Mac, 8BitDo says it plans to bring support for Apple devices to more of its controllers at a later date.
Pricing & Availability
Each controller is available to purchase on 8BitDo’s website or through Amazon. The 8Bitdo Lite SE is $34.99, the SN30 Pro is $49.99, the Pro 2 is also $49.99, SN30 Pro for Android for $39.99 and the Ultimate Controller 2.4g is $49.99. The 8BitDo Pro+ controller is currently not available.
