Backbone Labs
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Consumer electronics, Software |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Founder | Maneet Khaira |
| Headquarters | Atherton, California , United States |
Area served | Worldwide |
Key people | Maneet Khaira (CEO) |
| Products | Backbone One controller, Backbone app, Backbone+ subscription |
Backbone Labs is a technology firm based in the United States, with its main office located in Atherton, California and an additional branch in Seattle, Washington. Established in 2018 by Maneet Khaira, the company focuses on developing consumer electronics and software tailored for gaming on Apple's iOS and Google's Android systems. Its primary offering, the Backbone One controller, works seamlessly with the Backbone app, which serves as a social platform and content creation center for mobile gamers.
The Backbone software consolidates cloud gaming, remote play, and native mobile titles into a unified interface spanning various publishers and platforms. By utilizing advancements in cloud streaming technology, smartphone computing capabilities, and cross-platform compatibility, Backbone overcomes traditional exclusivity barriers to deliver console-level gaming experiences without requiring dedicated consoles. Through the Backbone app, users can browse and launch games from an extensive catalog that includes services such as Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation Remote Play, Steam Link, Nvidia GeForce Now, Amazon Luna, Apple Arcade, App Store (Apple), and Google Play.
History
Founded in 2018 by CEO Maneet Khaira during his tenure at Google, Backbone set out to elevate mobile gaming. The initial development of the Backbone One controller was supported by investments from well-known gamers and celebrities like MrBeast, PrestonPlayz, Ashton Kutcher’s Sound Ventures, among others. The product debuted on October 27, 2020, through limited release events.
After Apple introduced the iPhone 13 Pro models in September 2021 featuring larger camera bumps, Backbone responded to ergonomic concerns by providing an optional adapter and releasing open-source 3D printable files to maintain device compatibility.
In November 2021, Backbone launched Backbone+, a subscription plan that unlocks advanced app functionalities including Twitch streaming capabilities, improved recording options, integration with the Xbox app, along with benefits such as complimentary trials for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Google Stadia.
On February 23, 2022, Backbone raised $40 million in a Series A funding round led by Index Ventures. Additional backers included Jason Citron (Discord), Patrick Spence (Sonos), The Weeknd, Kevin Hart, Amy Schumer, and Sound Ventures.
In July 2022, Backbone collaborated with Sony to release the officially licensed Backbone One – PlayStation Edition controller. This version features design elements reminiscent of the DualSense controller and supports PS Remote Play on both iOS and Android devices. This partnership built upon Backbone’s existing alliance with Microsoft established in 2021.
The Backbone One 2nd Generation, unveiled in 2023, enhanced the original model with an upgraded directional pad, improved phone stability mechanisms, and magnetic adapters to better accommodate phone cases and larger smartphones. It offers support for iOS as well as USB-C Android devices. Sales channels expanded to include Best Buy, Amazon, Target, GameStop, Verizon stores, alongside Backbone’s direct sales platforms.
In September 2024, Backbone confirmed that its 2nd Generation controller is compatible with the iPhone 16 model highlighted during Apple’s annual keynote presentation.
Partnerships
In March 2021, Backbone formed a collaboration with Nvidia to incorporate their cloud gaming platform, GeForce Now, into the Backbone ecosystem, designating Backbone One as a recommended device.
By June 2021, Backbone joined forces with Microsoft to introduce Xbox Cloud Gaming on iOS devices. The Backbone One controller was included in the designed for Xbox partner hardware initiative and became available through the Microsoft Store, featuring specially designed Xbox-branded packaging.
October 2021 saw Backbone partner with Iconfactory to provide exclusive Backbone-themed in-game cosmetics for the Apple Arcade game Frenzic: Overtime. Users of the Backbone One controller gained access to a unique branded variant of the DoBot character.
In November 2021, Backbone collaborated with Twitch to embed Twitch functionalities within the Backbone+ subscription service. Leveraging IGDB, Twitch’s comprehensive game database, Backbone enhanced its in-app content and enabled users to stream and watch Twitch directly from the application.
In January 2024, Backbone unveiled a limited edition Backbone One Death Stranding Edition in partnership with Kojima Productions. This translucent yellow controller was inspired by the acclaimed video game series Death Stranding and came bundled with a complimentary iOS version of Death Stranding: Director's Cut.
In June 2024, Backbone teamed up with Post Malone to launch a limited-edition Backbone One controller reflecting Malone’s aesthetic and enthusiasm for gaming. The design featured a translucent green shell with glow-in-the-dark accents, an aluminum D-pad, and laser-etched buttons. This exclusive 500-unit release was priced at $199.99.