Back in March 2013, Samsung introduced a game pad controller compatible with Android devices with one purpose: Try to bring the console-like experience via your Android phone and enhance your game experience.
And now after less than a year, the Samsung Smartphone GamePad is now available in select European countries (more markets to follow in the coming weeks and the price yet to be announced), and you just need to have an Android device running Jelly Bean 4.1 and above to enjoy playing games with a controller.
The controller uses a Bluetooth connection to pair with your your device, and the 8way D-Pad, 4 action buttons, and two analog sticks promise a pleasant gaming experience.
The “Mobile Console” App” is where you can find the supported games and download them on your Android devices.
According to Samsung Mobile Press, some of the compatible games in different categories are: Need for Speed™ Most Wanted, Asphalt8 : Airborne, Virtua Tennis™ Challenge, Modern Combat 4 : Zero Hour, Prince of Persia : The Shadow and the Flame, and about 30 more titles in the official launch. To install the Mobile Console app and download the supported games you just need to hit the Play button on the controller, or find it on the Samsung exclusive application store, Samsung Apps.
Do Galaxy owners have any advantages? Yes, they do.
The Samsung Smartphone GamePad has been optimized for Galaxy devices running Android 4.3 and above, you can use NFC to start the connection between the controller and the Galaxy device, and the Play button only functions on Galaxy devices.
Are you thinking about streaming your device’s screen to an HD TV and enjoy playing games on big screens with a controller via your Android device? It does sound tempting...
Galaxy Tab 3 Game Edition Spotted in Germany
All About Samsung in Germany published an image of Galaxy Tab 3 Game Edition Bundle in Germany, and the package includes a Galaxy Tab 3 8.0, a Smartphone GamePad and one HDMI adapter. Since the GamePad can only hold Android devices with 4 inches to 6.3 inches screens, Samsung added the HDMI adaptor to connect the Galaxy tab with the Gamepad via cable (On select Galaxy devices running Android 4.3 or above, the connection works via NFC).
The German source didn't reveal any price or release time, and we should wait to see more about this exciting bundle.
Update: Smartphone GamePad in Now Available in South Korea
Samsung just launched its kind of innovative device, Smartphone GamePad, in South Korea and you can get the controller for about $80. If you love playing with your Android phone, your device is smaller than 6.3inches and you are running Android 4.1 (On JB 4.3 you'll get more features, which covered above), then this is the right device for you.
SamMobile also reports, other markets should expect the device to be launched in their regoins next weeks.
