If you want to reliably perform headshots and combos on your smartphone, there's no substitute for a mobile game controller that adds proper physical controls. Our favorite for the task is still the Spine oneand from now until March 10, you can save 30 percent on the original Lightning version in black, which is reduced to $69.99 ($30 off) at Amazon, Aimand direct from Backbone. IYou can also purchase the PlayStation Edition, which comes in white and has button labels corresponding to Sony controllers, for $69.99 ($30 off) at Amazon, Aimand Spine.
The original Backbone One is compatible with the iPhone 14 and earlier Lightning-based models. (If you own an iPhone 15 variant, you will need the Backbone One with USB-C, which is not for sale). It gives your smartphone a stable base and flanks it with standard gaming controls that make mobile titles much easier to play, and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack so you can use wired headphones to enjoy of the game audio. , as well as a microphone for chatting. The Backbone One's buttons don't have the same satisfying travel and feel as more substantial controllers, but it's better than losing focus and having your fingers take up half the screen while you fumble for software controls. It's also compatible with Backbone software, which can help you organize your mobile games and streaming services.
Given that Apple just announced a new M3-based MacBook Air, it looks like it won't be employing its usual over-the-top pomp for the incoming iPad Air refresh after all. However, if you're not interested in the rumored rise of the iPad Air before hearing the official details, you can save a bit by choosing the 5th generation iPad Air, which receives a $150 discount on various storage configurations. The 64GB/Wi-Fi model is available for around $449 at Amazon, Best Buyand Walmartwhile the 256GB/Wi-Fi model starts at $599.99 at Amazon, Best Buyand Aim. Each one equals its respective historical minimum.
Released in 2022, the fifth-generation Air was the first to use Apple's M1 chipset, giving it comparable power to the 2021 iPad Pro. It even looks similar to the flagship Pro models in terms of hardware design and socket. borrowed some of its features, including a 12-megapixel camera with Center Stage and a USB-C port. In fact, the Air's 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display fits into a chassis with roughly the same dimensions as the 11-inch iPad Pro (both even support the same Magic Keyboard).
Compared to the Pro models, the iPad Air lacks a lidar camera and Face ID (it uses Touch ID for biometric unlocking). The Pro's 120Hz ProMotion variable refresh rate display is also missing, along with the Mini LED panel found on the 12.9-inch model. There are also fewer speakers in total, just two compared to the Pro's four. Otherwise, however, it has all the essentials needed to enjoy iPadOS in a comfortable and manageable format, including support for the Second generation Apple Pencil.
