Manage Backbone

How to cancel backbone in new zealand and protect your rights

Understanding backbone and why you might want to cancel

Backbone is a mobile gaming hardware and software company that sells gaming controllers alongside a recurring subscription service called Backbone+. The subscription unlocks extra app features and cloud gaming services on your iOS or Android device.

You may have purchased the hardware as a one-off item, subscribed to Backbone+ through Apple App Store or Google Play, or signed up directly through the Backbone website. Whatever route you took, cancelling is straightforward once you know where to look. At Stopee, we help thousands of New Zealand consumers cancel subscriptions they no longer use, and Backbone cancellations are no exception.

This guide walks you through every cancellation method, explains what happens after you cancel, covers refund rights under New Zealand law, and flags common mistakes that trap users. By the end, you'll have the clarity and confidence to take action.

Who this guide is for

You're in the right place if you subscribed to Backbone+ via Apple, Google Play, or the Backbone app directly and want to cancel. This guide also covers your consumer rights as a New Zealand customer, including protections under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.

What backbone+ actually offers

Backbone+ is a monthly or yearly subscription that adds cloud gaming features, app customisation, and exclusive content to the Backbone app. The hardware itself (the physical controller) is sold separately and doesn't require ongoing payments. Only the subscription renews automatically.

Should you cancel backbone?

Before you cancel, it's worth asking whether Backbone+ truly no longer fits your needs.

Reasons to cancel

• You've stopped using the gaming controller or Backbone app altogether.
• Cloud gaming features aren't worth the monthly cost for your usage.
• You prefer gaming on other platforms or devices.
• The subscription charges don't justify the benefits you actually receive.
• You want to reduce your overall monthly subscription expenses.

Reasons to keep your subscription

• You regularly play cloud games via Backbone and rely on Backbone+ features.
• The monthly or annual cost feels reasonable for your gaming habit.
• You value the exclusive content and app customisation options included.
• You're within a free trial period and haven't decided yet.

If you're genuinely not using Backbone+, cancellation stops the bleeding on your monthly expenses. Stopee has helped New Zealand customers recover hundreds of dollars annually by cancelling subscriptions they'd forgotten about. Even a small saving adds up over time.

How to cancel backbone step by step

Your cancellation method depends on where you originally subscribed. Find your scenario below and follow the exact steps.

Cancel backbone+ via apple app store (iOS)

If you subscribed to Backbone+ through your iPhone or iPad using your Apple ID, you must cancel through Apple Settings, not inside the Backbone app itself.

1. On your iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app.
   • Scroll down and tap your name at the top of the screen.
2. Tap Subscriptions.
   • You'll see a list of all active subscriptions linked to your Apple ID.
3. Find and tap Backbone from the list.
   • If Backbone doesn't appear, your subscription may have already expired or was never set up via Apple.
4. Tap Cancel Subscription at the bottom of the screen.
   • Apple will ask you to confirm and may offer you a discount to stay - ignore this.
5. Confirm your cancellation by following the on-screen prompts.
   • You'll receive an email confirmation from Apple within minutes.
6. Take a screenshot of the cancellation confirmation for your records.
   • This protects you if Apple or Backbone later dispute the cancellation.

Pro tip: Check your subscription renewal date before cancelling. Cancellation takes effect at the end of your current billing cycle, so you won't lose access mid-month.

Warning: Do not cancel inside the Backbone app itself. Apple's Settings is the only official cancellation point for App Store subscriptions.

Cancel backbone+ via google play (Android)

Android users who subscribed through Google Play must cancel within the Google Play Store app on their device.

1. Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
   • Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
2. Tap Manage my subscriptions or Subscriptions (wording varies by device).
   • You'll see all active subscriptions on your Google account.
3. Find Backbone in the list and tap it.
   • If Backbone doesn't appear, your subscription may have already ended.
4. Tap Cancel subscription at the bottom of the page.
   • Google will ask why you're cancelling - you can skip this feedback or provide a reason.
5. Confirm your cancellation in the pop-up window.
   • Google will send you a confirmation email to your registered email address.
6. Screenshot the confirmation for your records.
   • Keep this alongside your payment receipts for proof of cancellation.

Pro tip: Google Play lets you cancel anytime, and your access continues until the end of your paid billing period. You won't lose access immediately.

Warning: Some Android devices have older Play Store versions. If you can't find Subscriptions, update your Google Play Store app first.

Cancel backbone+ directly via the backbone app

If you subscribed directly through the Backbone website or received an email link to subscribe (not through Apple or Google), cancel inside the Backbone app itself.

1. Open the Backbone app on your device.
   • Make sure you're logged in with the same account you used to subscribe.
2. Tap the Settings icon (usually a gear symbol in the top or bottom menu).
   • Scroll down until you see Account or Subscription options.
3. Tap Account, then Manage Subscription (or similar wording).
   • You'll see your current subscription plan and renewal date here.
4. Tap Cancel Subscription or Unsubscribe.
   • The app will show you the date your access will end (usually end of current billing cycle).
5. Confirm your cancellation by tapping the final confirmation button.
   • Backbone will send a confirmation email to the address linked to your account.
6. Screenshot your cancellation confirmation.
   • Store this email and screenshot in a folder for future reference.

Pro tip: Before you cancel, note your renewal date. Direct subscriptions to Backbone are often cheaper than platform versions, so double-check it's worth cancelling.

Warning: Backbone does not offer a pause option. Cancellation is permanent; you cannot pause and resume later without resubscribing.

What happens immediately after you cancel

Cancellation can feel abrupt, so knowing exactly what to expect helps you manage the transition.

Your access and subscription benefits

After you cancel, Backbone+ features remain active until the end of your current billing cycle. If you cancel mid-month, you keep full access until your next renewal date would have been. You don't lose anything on day one.

Once your billing cycle ends, Backbone+ features disappear from the app. You'll still be able to use the basic Backbone app, but cloud gaming, exclusive customisations, and premium content will no longer work.

Automatic renewals stop immediately

Your cancellation prevents any future charges. Backbone cannot and will not charge you again unless you manually resubscribe. No sneaky renewal emails or surprise charges will arrive.

Your data and account remain intact

Cancelling a subscription does not delete your Backbone account or erase any saved game data or preferences stored in the app. Your account stays open. If you decide to resubscribe later, your data will be waiting for you.

If you actually want to delete your account entirely (not just cancel the subscription), you'll need to request account deletion separately through the Backbone app Settings or contact Backbone support directly.

Refunds and consumer rights under NZ law

Backbone's terms state that all orders are final and non-refundable except where expressly allowed in their Warranty and Returns Policy. However, New Zealand consumer law offers protections Backbone's terms cannot override.

What backbone's policy says

Backbone explicitly reserves the right to refuse refunds except under their official returns policy. The company does not automatically offer a 14-day cooling-off period on subscription purchases. This is their stated position on their website terms.

Your rights under the consumer guarantees act 1993

The Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (CGA) is New Zealand law that protects you regardless of what any company's terms say. Even though Backbone claims "no refunds", you may be entitled to a refund if:

• The service was not fit for purpose. If Backbone+ doesn't deliver what was promised (e.g., cloud gaming doesn't work), you have a claim.
• The service is faulty or defective. If the subscription or service experience is broken or significantly degraded, the CGA applies.
• The service was misrepresented. If Backbone advertised features or benefits you didn't actually receive, you may qualify for a refund.
• You purchased outside your understanding. If you accidentally subscribed or were misled about the cost, you may have grounds for cancellation with a refund.

The Commerce Commission oversees consumer protection in New Zealand. If Backbone refuses a legitimate refund claim under the CGA, you can escalate to the Commission.

When to request a refund

Contact Backbone support directly before escalating. Explain your situation clearly: the service didn't work as expected, the features didn't deliver, or you were misled about the cost or benefits. Keep copies of all your communications.

If Backbone refuses and you believe you have a valid CGA claim, contact the Commerce Commission (comcom.govt.nz) or your local Citizens Advice Bureau. These organisations can advise you on next steps at no cost.

Stopee recommends always keeping receipts, confirmation emails, and screenshots of any service issues. These documents are your proof if you need to fight for a refund later.

Pricing and subscription plans for backbone+

Understanding what you're paying helps confirm whether cancellation is the right call.

Subscription pricing varies depending on whether you use Apple App Store, Google Play, or subscribe directly through Backbone. Check your last receipt or payment email to confirm which plan you're on and what you're being charged monthly.

Common mistakes that prevent cancellation

You're not alone if you've tried to cancel before and hit a wall. These traps catch most users.

Trying to cancel inside the backbone app (Apple subscribers)

Apple App Store subscribers who look for a cancel button inside the Backbone app will be disappointed. Apple doesn't let apps cancel their own subscriptions; you must go through Apple Settings. Many users get stuck here and assume they can't cancel. You can, but you must use Apple's system, not Backbone's.

Ignoring the renewal date and losing access unexpectedly

If you cancel but don't note when your billing cycle ends, you might be surprised when Backbone+ features disappear. Note your renewal date before you cancel so you know exactly when access stops.

Confusing account deletion with subscription cancellation

Cancelling a subscription does not delete your account. If you want your Backbone account completely removed, you'll need to request deletion separately. Many users cancel their subscription thinking their data is gone, then worry about privacy. It isn't. Request account deletion explicitly if you want that.

Not keeping proof of cancellation

If Backbone or your payment platform later claims you're still subscribed, a screenshot of your cancellation confirmation is your proof. Don't skip this step. Save your email confirmation and screenshot both.

Cancelling the wrong subscription

If you've experimented with Backbone on multiple platforms (e.g., both iPhone and Android), check all platforms for active subscriptions. You might have two Backbone+ subscriptions running. Cancel both if you want to stop all charges.

Stopee has helped consumers discover forgotten subscriptions across multiple devices and platforms. A quick audit of your Apple, Google, and Backbone accounts takes 10 minutes and could save you months of unwanted charges.

Timeline: when your cancellation actually takes effect

Understanding the timing prevents confusion about when you lose access and when your last charge hits.

Immediate effect (same day)

Your cancellation is recorded and confirmed by email on the day you submit it. No future automatic renewals will occur. This is instant.

Access continues until billing cycle end

You keep full Backbone+ access until your current billing period ends. If your renewal date is 15 March and you cancel on 5 March, you have access until 15 March. You don't lose features mid-cycle.

Last charge timing

If you cancel during an active subscription period, your last charge has already been processed. Cancellation stops future charges but does not refund the current cycle. You're billed before the cycle starts, not after.

Resubscription timeline

If you decide to come back, you can resubscribe anytime. Your old account data may still exist, or Backbone may ask you to create a new account. Reactivation is instant once you resubscribe.

Keeping records and protecting yourself

Documentation is your superpower if a dispute ever arises.

What to save

• Screenshots of your cancellation confirmation (showing the date and time).
• Emails from Apple, Google Play, or Backbone confirming cancellation.
• Receipts or invoices showing all charges made to your account.
• Your renewal dates and billing cycle end dates.
• Any support emails exchanged with Backbone if you requested a refund.

Where to store these documents

Create a folder on your phone or computer specifically for subscription records. Email yourself copies. Use a password-protected cloud service like Google Drive or OneDrive. If Backbone ever charges you again, or if you need to dispute a charge with your bank, you'll have everything in one place.

If you spot an unexpected charge

Contact your bank or payment platform immediately. In New Zealand, you have the right to dispute unauthorised charges under the Payments Systems Rules. Your bank can reverse the charge while investigating. Report it to Backbone support in writing as well, and refer to your cancellation proof.

Your cancellation address for formal notices

If Backbone refuses to cancel or disputes your cancellation, you can send a formal cancellation notice to their registered office:

Backbone Limited
Registered office address: Contact Backbone support for the current registered postal address, or check the Companies Office register at companies.govt.nz. This ensures your notice arrives at the legally binding address.

Send any formal notice by registered post or email to their support address, and keep proof of delivery. Always try the in-app or online cancellation methods first - formal notices are a last resort and can take weeks.

Final steps and next actions

You're now equipped to cancel Backbone with confidence. Here's your action plan:

1. Identify which platform you subscribed through (Apple, Google, or direct).
2. Follow the exact cancellation steps for your platform above.
3. Screenshot your cancellation confirmation immediately.
4. Note your access end date so you're not surprised when Backbone+ features disappear.
5. Save your confirmation email and payment receipts in a dedicated folder.
6. Check your next bank statement to confirm no further charges arrive.
7. If an unexpected charge does appear, contact your bank within 5 working days.

Stopee has guided thousands of New Zealand consumers through subscription cancellations just like yours. The process is straightforward once you know where to click, and your consumer rights under the CGA protect you if anything goes wrong. Cancelling Backbone+ today stops unnecessary monthly charges and puts you back in control of your spending. Take action now, keep your proof, and move forward with confidence.