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Apple Developing iPhone Game Controllers That May Launch Under Beats

The move could create a lower-price accessory line, giving Apple tighter hardware-software control over iPhone gaming.

Overview

  • Multiple outlets reported Sunday that code found in macOS and iOS betas points to two controller models in development with the identifiers T6502 and T1057.
  • Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman corroborated the code findings and said Apple has worked on the project for more than a year, but Apple has not publicly confirmed any product or timing.
  • The beta code and reporting describe standard gamepad features such as a D‑pad, analog thumbsticks and haptic motors plus possible motion sensors like an accelerometer and gyroscope.
  • Several reports say the accessories could be engineered under Beats and sold with Beats branding so Apple can aim for more price-competitive materials and positioning than its main brand.
  • If released, first-party controllers could tighten integration for iPhone, iPad and Apple Arcade and put Apple in more direct competition with third-party makers such as Backbone, Razer and SteelSeries.