Apple patent shows three gaming controllers
Several patent applications show that Apple aims to expand the gaming focus of its mobile devices with its own customized gamepad extensions for iPhones and iPads.
According to patentlyapple.com, Apple offered three alternative controller designs in a recent patent application for the European market, while somewhat different-looking gamepad designs were filed as extra hardware for iPhones and iPads in the United States.
The European application, titled "User Interfaces Associated with Remote Input Devices," includes, among other things, a classic, stand-alone gamepad similar to those used on the PS5, Xbox, and other consoles.
However, this is not a design patent with the finished look, but rather a broad concept with some differences from the controllers now on the market.
Classic design with addition
As an innovation, the controller, which can also be used with Apple TV, could include a sliding switch control that allows the device to be utilized in game mode, phone mode, or messaging mode.
This function, according to the source, would imply that this is Apple's own controller rather than a feature that might be added to, say, an Xbox controller.
Joycon clone and docking gamepad
Meanwhile, the second design is very similar to the Nintendo Switch joycons, which are also affixed to the side of the device or should be magnetically attached, regardless of portrait or landscape mode.
Meanwhile, the third controller variation is docked to the iPhone from below in landscape mode and, in addition to specialized buttons, supports the display of smaller display contents in the form of supplementary information such as health indicators, notifications, and so on.
The two latter ideas have already appeared in various forms in the aforementioned US patent, which also describes an "intelligent foldable carrying bag."
According to patentlyapple.com, the publication of two patents for extended controller accessories on the same day strongly suggests that the corporation is working on a large accessory project.
Of course, it is unknown whether Apple will eventually license its patents to third-party developers or put them to market as Apple accessories.
However, due to the complexity of some of the features, the research suggests that Apple intends to closely manage features and software options in the future. Because patent applications are involved, the likely date of market introduction is yet in the future.
