The new Serafim S3 Universal Mobile Game Controller is an Apple MFi-certified accessory that aims to bring console-level gaming to iPhone users with Hall effect magnet-based joysticks and more, the company said Monday. Priced at $89.99, S3 is available now on Amazon and the Serafim website.
Serafim S3 Universal Mobile Game Controller with MFi certification for iPhone
Serafim’s updated S3 controller carries Apple’s official MFi (Made for iPhone) certification, meaning it meets Apple’s hardware standards and includes an authentication chip for reliable compatibility.
The controller supports iPhone 15, 16 and 17 series devices and connects via USB-C rather than Bluetooth — a distinction Serafim says delivers latency up to 100 times lower than wireless controllers. For competitive gamers playing fast-paced titles like Call of Duty, Fortnite or Genshin Impact, that reduction in input lag could make a meaningful difference.
Hall effect controls and ergonomic design
A highlight of the S3’s hardware is its dual Hall effect joysticks and analog triggers. Unlike traditional mechanical components, Hall effect sensors use magnets to detect input, which eliminates the joystick drift that plagues many controllers over time and improves long-term durability. The result is more accurate, more responsive input — particularly valuable in games that demand precision.
Serafim made comfort a priority in the design. The controller ships with two pairs of swappable ergonomic grips in different sizes, catering to both adult and younger players. At just 143 grams, it is light enough for extended sessions. It fits phones up to 17.9 cm long and accommodates cases up to 3 mm thick. Most iPhone users won’t need to remove their case to plug in and play.
Practical features round out the hardware. A passthrough charging port keeps your iPhone powered during long sessions. And a built-in 3.5 mm headphone jack provides wired audio without the need for a wireless connection.
The Serafim Console app
Photo: Serafim
Beyond the hardware, Serafim pushes its ecosystem through the companion Serafim Console app. The app lets users browse compatible games, record gameplay in real time, capture screenshots, edit clips and share content directly to social platforms. Built-in, one-click Twitch streaming lowers the barrier for players who want to broadcast live without a complicated setup.
The app also serves as a gateway to cloud and remote gaming platforms. Those include PS Remote Play, Xbox Game Pass, Steam, GeForce Now and Amazon Luna — in addition to App Store titles. For iPhone users who already subscribe to any of these services, the S3 could serve as a single controller for both mobile and remote console gaming.
Fallout 76 launch promotion and availability
To mark the launch, Serafim partnered with Bethesda on a limited-time offer. Buyers of the S3 will receive a complimentary Fallout 76 game code. That gives new owners immediate access to the open-world RPG at no extra cost.
Serafim S3 Universal Mobile Game Controller is available now for $89.99 on Amazon and the Serafim website with worldwide shipping available.
Serafim's updated controller features precise Hall Effect magnetic controls, low latency and passthrough charging. MFi-certified, it's for iPhone 15/16/17 as well as Android devices.
- MFi certification (made for iPhone)
- Hall Effect joysticks
- Passthrough charging
- Low latency
- May bring an advantage, but can't guarantee victory
David Snow, an expert on Apple hardware and software, writes on a variety of technological and cultural topics for Cult of Mac. They include Apple news, technology buying guides, and features about computer setups and Apple TV shows and movies.
With 30 years of experience covering technology and other subjects, he has written and edited for numerous print and online publications, including CMP Media, TechTV.com, CNET, Wired News, Red Herring magazine, Law.com, The National Law Journal and Law Technology News magazine. Among other roles, he served as executive editor of the Law.com network of websites and editorial director, technology, for ALM Media.
Snow graduated with a B.A. from Syracuse University with majors in magazine journalism and psychology. While there, he worked as a reporter for The Daily Orange newspaper and associate editor of Equal Time magazine.
Founder of the blog At the Waterline, he can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) via @atthewaterline and on Mastodon via @dsnow.
