What if your iPhone could come with an Apple-made gamepad?
Apple is reportedly developing its own game controllers, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who corroborated earlier references found in macOS beta code. The project involves two controllers identified as T6502 and T1057.
The controllers are expected to have a D-pad, thumbsticks and haptic motors, while one model may also support motion controls through an accelerometer and gyroscope. Their final design is still unknown.
The interesting part is the branding. Gurman says Apple may launch the controller under Beats, with Beats executives overseeing the project.
That could help Apple target a lower price than a typical Apple-branded accessory, as Beats products generally use more affordable materials.
Apple already sells third-party controllers such as the Backbone One and SteelSeries Nimbus+, while iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV support gamepads including PlayStation and Xbox controllers.
A first-party controller could give Apple more control over gaming across its devices, especially as more AAA games arrive on iPhone and Mac.
It could also give the Apple TV 4K a stronger gaming setup.
Still unofficial
Apple has not announced the controllers, their design, price or release date. The macOS references only show that the company is working on the project, and there’s still a chance the hardware could change or never launch.
For now, Apple appears to be exploring a bigger role in gaming hardware, and a Beats-branded game controller could be its way into the market.