Discover Phase, a gaming controller from Pixelpaw Labs that transforms into a computer mouse, bridging gamepad and mouse formats for versatile gaming on the go.
© Pixelpaw Labs
Startup Pixelpaw Labs, which specializes in hardware for gamers, has unveiled an unusual gaming controller called Phase that can transform into a computer mouse. The device aims to combine multiple control formats—gamepad, mobile controller, and mouse. Today's gamers are roughly divided into two camps: those who prefer playing with a mouse and keyboard, and those who use gamepads. However, devices like the Lenovo Legion Go and Joy-Con controllers for the Nintendo Switch 2 are gradually blurring this line. The Phase project seeks to go even further.
The new product consists of two parts that connect via magnets and spring contacts. In this configuration, it becomes a full-fledged computer mouse. The developers state that the goal is to bridge the gap between a mouse, a mobile gamepad, and a controller by creating a universal device for work and gaming on the go.
Phase is not yet available for purchase. The company plans to launch a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. Already, you can place a refundable deposit of $20, which also grants a 15% discount once the campaign begins. The starting price on Kickstarter will be $159, or $188 with the Phasegrip accessory.
Since Phase is the first product from Pixelpaw Labs, and crowdfunding campaigns always carry certain risks, there's a chance the project might not come to fruition. Nevertheless, the device's concept and the solutions proposed by the developers appear quite interesting.
For example, in mouse mode, Phase lacks a scroll wheel. Instead, it uses a touch-sensitive surface on the left mouse button. The device connects wirelessly or via USB-C and features a sensor with a resolution of up to 16,000 dots per inch. It likely uses a PixArt PMW 3389 or PixArt PAW 3335 sensor, which are common in gaming mice.
In gamepad mode, Phase employs a familiar layout: ABXY buttons and a joystick on the right side, along with a joystick and D-pad on the left. Both controllers also have shoulder buttons and triggers. Ergonomically, it resembles Wii Nunchuk controllers for the Nintendo Wii, but with more control elements.
The controller will operate at 2.4 GHz with a polling rate of 1 kHz, and support Bluetooth wireless connectivity in both gamepad and mouse modes. The company also promises software for customizing controls, including a separate programmable button for system functions.
Additionally, Pixelpaw Labs is developing the Phasegrip accessory—a dock for the controllers that will allow the device to be used similarly to a mobile controller for smartphone gaming.