Apple is currently developing two new game controllers designed specifically for the iPhone. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the upcoming accessories will likely be marketed and sold under the company's Beats brand. The hardware project will reportedly include modern features such as haptic controls.
This upcoming hardware project could significantly deepen Apple’s ongoing push into mobile gaming. Rumors that Apple might enter the game controller business have circulated for some time, but concrete details are finally beginning to emerge.
Beta code reveals development
Evidence of the new hardware first appeared last week when MacRumors reported finding two references in macOS 26.7's code to two game controllers identified as first-party devices. These code findings, which were recently corroborated by 9to5Mac's Benjamin Mayo, indicated the development of two specific controllers carrying the model identifiers T6502 and T1057.
The beta code provided a glimpse into the hardware's potential capabilities. Findings showed evidence of a standard D-Pad, thumbsticks, and haptic motors. The code also hinted at a possible integrated accelerometer and gyroscope for motion controls, though the exact external design remains unknown.
Despite the code being found in a Mac operating system rather than iOS, Gurman says the controllers are designed strictly for iPhones. Additionally, Beats executives are reportedly leading the charge on this product's development.
Pricing and design strategy
Apple sometimes uses its Beats subsidiary brand to experiment with new product categories and compete at lower price points. This strategy allows the company to test new markets without sullying its more premium Apple lineup.
To reach a broad audience, the controllers have to be relatively affordable. This pricing strategy means the company will avoid using some of the more expensive materials and finishes typically associated with standard Apple products.
Gurman notes that the culture and lifestyle around gaming controllers could fit naturally under the Beats umbrella. Beats now sells a range of accessories, including iPhone cases and USB-C cables, that don’t necessarily fit Apple’s usual approach to design, making a gamepad a logical addition in that context.
Capturing the mobile gaming market
Apple already sells popular third-party options like the Backbone One and SteelSeries Nimbus+ through the Apple Store. Apple's operating systems currently allow users to connect various MFI-compatible controllers, as well as traditional game console controllers like the PlayStation DualShock and the Xbox Wireless Controller.
However, this new hardware indicates Apple wants to take a direct slice of the iPhone gamepad market for itself. An Apple or Beats-branded game controller could also help improve the gaming ecosystem on the Apple TV 4K. Beyond mobile devices, Apple hopes first-party accessories will boost overall engagement with the increasingly sophisticated AAA games being made available on iOS and Mac.
Online, the rumors have quickly generated a mix of excitement and skepticism. Social media accounts like CharlieIntel shared the Bloomberg reports, prompting users to quickly post jokes and memes. EarnLab.com joked about potential premium pricing, replying, "That will be $1,499". Meanwhile, user Lee Bennington wondered how long it would take people to "Meme" the accessory with the rumored iPhone Duo, prompting Bovada Casino to joke "10 minutes later".