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Backbone One – PlayStation Edition is a physical controller that attaches to a compatible phone. It does not run PlayStation games or stream them by itself: a PS4 or PS5 runs the game, while Sony’s PS Remote Play app streams the console session to the phone. Backbone provides the controls.
What you need to play
- A PS4 or PS5 with current system software and a PlayStation account.
- A compatible phone with the PS Remote Play app installed.
- A Backbone One – PlayStation Edition that fits the phone and connects through its port.
- A network connection for the console and phone. Remote Play can use broadband or mobile data.
Sign in to PS Remote Play with the same PlayStation account used on the console. Sony recommends upload and download speeds of at least 5 Mbps as a standard and at least 15 Mbps for best performance. Those are recommendations, not guarantees of a lag-free session. Sony also warns that Remote Play uses much more mobile data than most video-streaming services, so check your plan before playing over cellular data. Sony’s PS Remote Play mobile support
How to connect Backbone and start Remote Play
- Enable Remote Play on the console. On PS5, open Settings > System > Remote Play and turn on Enable Remote Play. On PS4, open Remote Play Connection Settings and enable the feature; the console must also be activated as the account’s primary PS4.
- Set up remote wake if you need it. To wake the console from Rest Mode over the network, enable the relevant internet and network wake options in its power settings.
- Install and sign in to the phone app. Install PS Remote Play and sign in using the same PlayStation account as on the console.
- Attach the controller. Extend Backbone One, connect its plug to the phone, then close the grips around the device so it is secured.
- Connect to the console. In PS Remote Play, choose PS5 or PS4. The app searches for a console associated with the signed-in account. When it connects, the console display appears on the phone.
- Play using Backbone’s controls. The phone is the screen, Backbone is the local input device, and the console runs the game. Sony says the Backbone app is not required for basic controller use.
Phone compatibility and power
| Phone type | Documented compatibility | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Android | Android 10.0 or later and a USB Type-C port | Confirm the specific phone fits and its connector matches the controller. |
| iPhone | Sony lists iOS 15 or later for iPhone compatibility with Backbone One – PlayStation Edition. | Check the exact iPhone model, connector, and physical fit before buying. |
Backbone has no battery of its own and draws a small amount of power from the phone. Its pass-through port lets you charge the phone while playing. Retail availability, pricing, and fit with every phone or case are not established by Sony’s compatibility information, so verify the specific device before purchasing. Sony’s mobile Remote Play requirements and Backbone One – PlayStation Edition support
What Backbone does—and what it does not do
Backbone is not a handheld PlayStation console, a cloud-gaming service, or a replacement for owning a PS4 or PS5. It supplies physical buttons and sticks; Remote Play carries the session between the console and phone over the network. The game is still running on the console, so the console must be available and reachable for a session.
#1 Best Overall
- PLAY VIRTUALLY ANY GAME, ANYWHERE: Enjoy mobile gaming on the go. Play App Store hits like Call of Duty, Fortnite & Roblox, stream through Xbox Game Pass & GeForce NOW, or connect via Remote Play from PlayStation, Xbox, or PC.
- PRECISION CONTROLS: Crafted for accuracy and comfort, this compact phone gaming controller features ultra-wide analog triggers, high-precision thumbsticks, and a responsive D-pad/buttons. Designed for smooth, reliable gameplay across all your favorite titles.
- IN-APP EMULATOR READY FOR iOS USERS: Turn your mobile controller into a retro gaming hub! Import your own ROMs, play offline, and enjoy controller support with Backbone’s in-app emulator. Available to iOS users on version 18.4 or higher (Android version in development). A Backbone+ subscription is required, making it the ideal gift for gamers craving classic titles on the go.
- IPHONE COMPATIBILITY + CASE SUPPORT: Compatible with all iPhones that have a Lightning connector (iPhone 14 & older). For iPhone 15 and newer, see our USB-C version. Includes magnetic adapters for case support, making this a versatile mobile phone controller for Lightning-enabled devices.
- BACKBONE+ TRIAL INCLUDED: Unlock enhanced features with a trial membership, including game recording, friends list, and a universal launcher. With Backbone+, enjoy free instant access to a wide variety of games, enhancing your experience by letting you play immediately without paying for extra features. This gaming controller works out of the box. A Backbone+ subscription is optional and not required to play games
The PlayStation Edition can also work with other compatible applications, including some controller-supporting mobile games and streaming services identified by Sony. That does not mean every game or service supports it; compatibility depends on the app.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Other ways to use Remote Play
Backbone is one way to control a Remote Play session, not a requirement. Depending on the device and app support, you can use on-screen controls or pair a compatible DualSense or DUALSHOCK 4 controller. PlayStation Portal is a separate dedicated Remote Play device for PS5. These options differ in whether you already own a compatible phone and console, whether you want built-in controls, and what devices and network access you have. Sony’s documentation does not establish a price or performance comparison between Backbone and Portal.
Quick Recap
Rank #2
- Collapsible and compact design
- Lowest latency connection
- Play games that support controllers
- Capture clips and screenshots
- Pass-through charging and 3.5mm headphone jack
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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