It has been a while since Gameboys, PSPs and handheld video game consoles have been popular, but the iCade Mobile is throwing it back by transforming our phones into a game-friendly design.
This device is shaped much like a Gameboy Advance, only there is a hole where the screen would be so that small iOS phone, iPhone or iPod can fit in. Bluetooth technology connects your gadget to the handheld console frame. Nintendo DSs and Sony PSPs have lost traction, but perhaps this is a new age of mobile gaming device -- we all have a phone anyway, so by tacking on this relatively cheap addition ($59.99) our smartphones have the potential of turning genius.
The iCade Mobile has a growing list of games for people to play, featuring arcade collections from companies like Namco, but it probably won't attract users who are content with Fruit Ninja and Angry Birds.
Phone-Turned-Gameboy Consoles
The iCade Mobile Will Make Your Cell More Fun
Trend Themes
1. Mobile Gaming Resurgence - The iCade Mobile device is bringing back the popularity of handheld gaming consoles by transforming smartphones into game-friendly designs.
2. Bluetooth Gaming Accessories - The iCade Mobile's use of Bluetooth technology to connect smartphones to handheld console frames creates an opportunity for the development of innovative gaming accessories.
3. Integration of Arcade Collections - The iCade Mobile's growing list of games featuring arcade collections presents an opportunity for the integration of classic arcade games into modern gaming platforms.
Industry Implications
1. Mobile Gaming - The iCade Mobile device creates an opportunity for the mobile gaming industry to offer a new range of game-friendly accessories and experiences.
2. Electronics and Technology - The iCade Mobile's innovative use of Bluetooth technology presents an opportunity for the electronics and technology industry to develop unique gaming accessories.
3. Gaming and Entertainment - The iCade Mobile's integration of arcade collections opens up opportunities for the gaming and entertainment industry to re-introduce classic arcade games to a new generation of gamers.