The next accessory that the company will introduce may well be an Apple game controller. According to a patent application, Apple has applied to reserve design concepts for three different mobile game controllers. They can work with both iPhone and iPad, including two familiar designs as well as a few unique ones. The new patents show that Apple recognizes the growing value of mobile gaming in today’s world, and creating your own gaming devices can be quite valuable.
Apple game controller: three designs
According to the patent, the Apple game controller can be offered in three versions. The first of the designs showcases a design that is almost exactly the same as Microsoft’s Xbox controller, including the placement of the thumb and control buttons. Apple already supports Xbox and Sony PlayStation controllers with its devices, so we’re not entirely sure if Apple would have enough value to add a very similar controller of its own. The Xbox and PlayStation controllers are also already very popular and can offer cross-platform play which earns them more points.
The second patented design is similar to the JoyCons of the Nintendo Switch game console. The latter included a snap-on design where two modular controller units were attached to either end of either the console itself or the controller base, which were used as game controls.
Asus has offered a similar controller in its ROG Phone portfolio called the Kunai GamePad. However, the latter requires an external frame to be installed on the device to snap the controller units into place, making the entire setup rather cumbersome. Considering how Apple likes to keep a close eye on the design of its devices and keep everything to a minimum, it would be embarrassing if Apple didn’t opt for a better design for the controllers in question – if they were launched.
The third design includes a folding panel similar to the iPad’s flip cover. This cover flips open to reveal a controller interface with a touchpad in between. With a four-way button on one side and control buttons on the other, the touchpad will work to deliver notifications while you play, thus not distracting the main display.