Apple is reportedly working on iPhone game controllers
The Verge
β’2026-09-13T14:30:16-04:00
π° What Happened
Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman says Apple is building two game controllers for the iPhone. They would probably be sold under the Beats brand.
Last week MacRumors found references in the code for macOS 26.7 to two game controllers described as first-party devices. Apple has not confirmed anything yet.
Gurman says Beats executives are leading the project. Apple sometimes uses Beats to try new product types at lower prices without changing its main brand.
π The Backstory
Rumours about an Apple controller have floated around for years. Beats already sells iPhone cases and USB-C cables that do not match Apple's usual design style.
A controller would have to be fairly cheap to sell widely. That means skipping the expensive materials and finishes Apple usually uses on its own products.
Gaming culture also suits the Beats brand, which is aimed at younger buyers. Phone gaming has grown into a huge market alongside titles like Fortnite and Minecraft.
π― Why It Matters
A cheap Apple-made controller could make iPhone gaming far better than touch controls. It would also put Apple in direct competition with console makers.
Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman says Apple is building two game controllers for the iPhone. They would probably be sold under the Beats brand.
Last week MacRumors found references in the code for macOS 26.7 to two game controllers described as first-party devices. Apple has not confirmed anything yet.
Gurman says Beats executives are leading the project. Apple sometimes uses Beats to try new product types at lower prices without changing its main brand.
Rumours about an Apple controller have floated around for years. Beats already sells iPhone cases and USB-C cables that do not match Apple's usual design style.
A controller would have to be fairly cheap to sell widely. That means skipping the expensive materials and finishes Apple usually uses on its own products.
Gaming culture also suits the Beats brand, which is aimed at younger buyers. Phone gaming has grown into a huge market alongside titles like Fortnite and Minecraft.
A cheap Apple-made controller could make iPhone gaming far better than touch controls. It would also put Apple in direct competition with console makers.