Apple's secret iPhone game controllers could launch under the Beats brand

Apple has reportedly been developing in-house game controllers for the iPhone over the past year, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The company's goal is to compete with the numerous third-party options already available in the market. Initial code discovered in a macOS 26.7 release candidate suggests that Apple is developing a conventional gamepad design, featuring a D-pad, dual analog sticks, shoulder buttons, analog triggers, and home/menu buttons.

Two models are believed to exist: one with an accelerometer and gyroscope, and another without. Haptics support also differs between the two. The development of these controllers is reportedly being led by executives at Beats, which could result in the gamepads launching under the Beats brand rather than under Apple's name. This strategy allows Apple to enter the market with a more affordable option, as Beats currently sells a variety of products ranging from earbuds and headphones to speakers, charging cables, and iPhone cases.

While the exact launch date and pricing of the gamepads remain unknown, Gurman does not rule out a potential holiday season release. In the meantime, third-party options like 8BitDo and Hyperkin provide gamers with excellent alternatives, some of which are more budget-friendly.