‘Phase’ mouse + controller created by Pixelpaw Labs
A modular mouse controller that detaches magnetically into a two-handed game controller, giving gamers one device in two forms.
Four years of prototyping separated the first Phase sketch from the product that Pixelpaw Labs launched for pre-orders in March 2026. This timeline reflects just how tough the engineering challenge really was: to create a device that would function as a precision desktop mouse that transforms into a split handheld controller without tools or connectors as soon as the user lifts it off the desk.
The result is a modular mouse controller made of matte, non-slip ABS plastic, with overall dimensions of 119 × 82 × 43 mm, a dark housing with multi-colored status LEDs that instantly indicate battery level and pairing status.
How a modular mouse controller works
Phase splits along a magnetic seam running down the center of the body. In mouse mode, it operates at up to 16,000 DPI and a 1,000 Hz polling rate, powered by a 32-bit ARM core and a high-precision optical sensor – specs that sit comfortably alongside dedicated gaming mice.
In controller mode, the two sides separate into left and right grips, each with mechanical tactile switches and a capacitive touch-sensitive scroll surface with glide support. Up to 18 buttons are fully programmable using the Pixelplay app.
The phone grip accessory, which comes in the box, fits most phones with a case attached by sliding along the outer rail on the right side – a detail visible in product photos as a thin aluminum-colored bracket that fits snugly against the grip surface.
Phase in controller mode
The Phase magnetically separates into two independent grip elements, turning the modular mouse controller into a portable gamepad that works with phones, tablets, and PCs.
Connectivity includes Bluetooth LE and a 2.4 GHz adapter, supports up to three paired devices, and provides a wireless range of 10 meters. A 500 mAh lithium-ion battery on a single charge via USB-C provides up to 72 hours of total use. The modular mouse controller weighs approximately 120 grams when assembled, but according to the team, this figure may decrease slightly before the start of mass production.
The Kickstarter campaign is scheduled for June 2026, with mass production scheduled for November 2026, and shipping to backers between December 2026 and January 2027.
For designers and hardware enthusiasts watching input devices evolve alongside hybrid work and play configurations, Phase is a detailed study of how ergonomic and technical constraints shape every visible detail – from the dividing line that serves as the design’s seams to the matte black finish chosen for grip over aesthetics.
The modular mouse controller is a thoughtful bet that the gap between desktop precision and handheld gaming is finally worth considering in hardware.
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