Apple is said to be working on an official game controller for the iPhone, according to a report from Bloomberg. The company is reportedly developing two controller prototypes and aims to challenge the wide array of third-party controllers currently available for iOS devices.
Rather than releasing the controller under the main Apple brand, the product is expected to be launched under its subsidiary, Beats. Executives from Beats are reportedly leading the engineering and design efforts for the controller. This approach allows Apple to potentially use less premium materials, making the product more accessible to a wider audience, a strategy previously employed for products that might not align with the typical premium aesthetic of the Apple brand.
A Shift in Gaming Focus
Historically, Apple's relationship with gaming, particularly under Steve Jobs, was perceived as lukewarm. However, the company has shown increasing interest in the mobile gaming market, notably with the introduction of Apple Arcade in 2019. This subscription service offers a curated library of games, many of which are enhanced by the use of physical controllers. The development of a first-party controller could significantly improve the gaming experience for Apple Arcade users.
The iPhone already supports a range of third-party controllers, from specialized mobile gaming accessories to popular console controllers like the PlayStation DualShock 4, DualSense, Xbox Wireless Controller, and Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons and Pro Controller. An official Apple-designed controller would provide another option for players seeking a more traditional gaming setup on their iPhones.