Over the past several months, we've been following the progress of iPhone5mod, one of several companies that have developed unauthorized versions of Apple's new Lightning connector, allowing them to launch a number of accessories, adapters, and cables for customers frustrated by the slow pace of development on official solutions.

iphone5mod ex hybrid 1
iPhone5mod is now launching an interesting new product today in the form of an ultrathin keyboard/game controller for the iPhone 5. The $49.90 EX Hybrid Game Controller consists of a thin back cover for the iPhone that provides magnetic attachment for a pair of 2-mm thick aluminum plates: one offering a keyboard and a second containing gamepad controls. The plates also include integrated batteries for up to 40 hours of active use, with a separate charging station for the plates included in the package.

iphone5mod ex hybrid 2

Top Rated Comments

genovelle Avatar
171 months ago
Cool! This is why the iPhone trumps Google phones. Having one form factor that won't get dumped every 6 months means that companies can create very special accessories and know they have time to market and recoup their investment. 3 years minimum 5, 5s, and then kept at least one year after the next generation is released at a lower price. The benefit for owners is not only do they get a new phone via next generation software updates which are rare on the Google side, they can use accessories like these to customize their hardware.

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I prefer the will.i.am one.
I thought that was a camera upgrade.
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Simplicated Avatar
171 months ago
Attaches magnetically... I wonder what impact does it have on the magnetometer.
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
flashflooder Avatar
171 months ago
The extra battery life is more enticing than the keyboard/game controller.

it doesn't add battery life to your phone, they're talking about the battery life of the accessory itself.
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Digital Skunk Avatar
171 months ago
Cool! This is why the iPhone trumps Google phones. Having one form factor that won't get dumped every 6 months....

Nice to see that some are still making things up, or are still choosing to remain uninformed/blinded.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
TMar Avatar
171 months ago
Please keep your giant magnetic device away from my credit cards.

Thank you.
Modern credit cards can't be degaussed by even rare earth magnets...

Agreed.
Moreoever, in my view "Magnet = NOT OK!"
Why?
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Christoffee Avatar
171 months ago
I prefer the will.i.am one.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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