Apple patents iPhone and iPad game controller devices

PatentlyApple has reported on several patents registered by Apple, all of which pertain to iPad and iPhone control augmentation. It would seem that Apple has decided that its devices, despite being exemplars of touchscreen interfaces, aren’t necessarily ideal for traditional gaming.

Among the many variants contained in the patent are:

• several ‘housings’ which will accept an iPad or iPhone, and feature D pads, buttons and sticks;
• a system that will allow wireless broadcast of the game to a home T.V., or even the use of both screens (perhaps a map, or inventory on the iPad);
• and even a duel screened peripheral which bears a striking resemblance to a certain Nintendo console

“While the functionality of [portable electronic devices] has increased, their size has decreased” the patent explains. “Unfortunately, while playing games can be fun on these [devices], it can also be somewhat awkward particularly on a [device] having a touchscreen...the user’s fingers [can] block the action”.

Of course, a patent is does not commit Apple to the production of such peripherals, but it is very interesting to see that Cupertino is thinking hard about the future of gaming on its devices.

To see these wild imaginings, have a look at the full patent here.

via IntoMobile