Fructel showcased their bluetooth controller geared specifically for smartphones and tablets. The device is compatible with Android devices running Android 2.1.1 Éclair or later, Apple iPads running iOS 3.2 or later and iPhones supporting iOS 4.0 or later. Once the device is paired with a phone or tablet, it automatically connects once powered on. It has the traditional Super Nintendo 6-button gamepad layout (D-pad with 6 front facing buttons, 2 of them being your start and select, and two additional trigger buttons). It is compact, supports a 9 hr battery life, and charges via a standard micro USB port on the bottom of the pad.
Now all of that is well and good… now for the eye-grabber… The controller itself sports a strong spring-loaded grip that can grasp seemingly any phone. Another convention-goer put the clamp to the test with his galaxy nexus which was surrounded by a rubber brick of a case. The phone wedged right in and stayed in place. Now all that talk about using your smart phones as hand-held gaming peripherals will now hold true with your hardcore gamers. Remember, the device is connected via bluetooth, so if you do not necessarily need the phone in the grip in case the unit feels top-heavy. But where’s the fun in that?
Right now the controller is currently being sold in the UK for about £49.99 via Amazon. Until Fructel makes their move to the US, you can always venture into overseas purchasing on Amazon UK. I’ll definitely be looking out for it.
Want to learn more about it? You can check out their website: www.gametelcontroller.com