Six models of 8BitDo game controllers can now be combined and used to play games on iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV.
- What’s happening? Now you can use game controllers from 8BitDo to play Apple Arcade and App Store games on iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV.
- Why care? It’s always good to have a choice. Your options for game controllers that work with Apple devices have just expanded.
- What to do? Read the 8BitDo FAQ.
Some 8BitDo game controllers get Apple compatibility
The company announced on Twitter that six of its game controllers can now be paired with Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple TVs.
Apple already supports MFi controllers such as SteelSeries’ Nimbus and Stratus, as well as Xbox and PlayStation, but now Apple Arcade subscribers and those who play App Store games that support MFi controllers can also use 8BitDo gamepads.
To install the firmware update, download the 8BitDo Firmware Updater app for macOS or Windows from the 8BitDo website. This software will identify your controller and automatically download and install the appropriate firmware.
8BitDo controllers that work with iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV
The following six 8BitDo controllers have been updated to work with Apple devices:
- Controller 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g
- 8BitDo Pro 2
- 8BitDo SN30 Pro Plus
- 8BitDo SN30 Pro
- 8BitDo SN30 Pro for Android
- 8Bitdo Lite SE
It’s important to note that your Apple devices must be running iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, tvOS 16.3, or macOS Ventura 13.2 or later to use the above controllers.
These controllers previously worked on Windows and Android. Additional game controllers and gamepads from 8BitDo will soon receive support from Apple. This is great news for anyone buying a game controller on a budget, as 8BitDo products are known for their affordable prices, good ergonomics, and highly customizable options.
How to download the official 8BitDo app
You can easily remap controller buttons, switch between saved profiles and install firmware updates using the official 8BitDo Ultimate Software.
The app requires iOS 11 and above.
With it, you can remap buttons to your liking, adjust sticks for more precise control, adjust ranges and motor tension of triggers, and more.
How to Set Up Game Controllers on Apple Devices
Also, remap buttons using Apple features:
- iOS/iPadOS: Settings → General → Game controller
- macOS: Settings → Game controller
- tvOS: Settings → Remotes and devices → Bluetooth
Please note that iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and tvOS do not support vibration and motion.
You can connect and use up to four game controllers on one Apple device at the same time. These controllers offer both wireless and wired functionality, but wired USB connectivity is only available for iPads and Macs with USB-C ports.