How to Use iPhone as a Gaming Device
Element14, a collaborative community and electronics store, and modding guru Ben Heck pay homage to the 2012 CES International tradeshow in the latest episode of the “The Ben Heck Show.” This week’s modding project features an Apple iPhone that Ben morphs into an enhanced hand-held gaming tool. It was announced today, Jan. 9.
“CES starts today, and I couldn’t think of a more fitting project than one that combines my love for video games with a device that many consumers are extremely passionate about,” said Ben. “Sure, the iPhone is a great device for game play already, but I wanted to take it to the next level for the ultimate mobile gaming enthusiast.”
To implement video gaming capabilities onto the smaller-footed iPhone, Ben first deconstructs an iCade system that enables gaming on an Apple iPad to integrate a scaled-down version of the circuitry.
[ Also Visit: RMN Content and Communications Services ]Then, by connecting a PodBreakout board to a simulated battery, Ben borrows voltage from the iPad to enable the Bluetooth required to power the iPhone for mobile gaming purposes.
Ben wraps up the episode by showing viewers how to build the case and required controller components – from designing and routing the shell and laser button pads using an Epilog Laser Engraver to creating and printing buttons.
The final result is a tricked-out innovative hand-held Apple iPhone gaming device. Show fans are invited to join the Element14 community to send Ben a challenge for a future build, engage with community members, and enter for a chance to win the build from this episode.
In conjunction with CES, Ben will demonstrate his latest mod in a live streaming interview with the host of GT.TV, Geoff Keighley on Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 2:15 p.m. PST.
Directly following the interview, Ben will go up against “Men’s Health” contributor Matt Bean in a live debate on the benefits of robotics. You can check out the live stream at allaccess.spike.com or Gametrailers.com
