Apple patents Gamepad input 'methodology' for iOS devices

[garyopa]

The iPhone as universal remote?



A new filed patent proposes an iPhone software that could mimic XBOX/PlayStation controllers. It also shows a DualShock-style controller being paired.

An Apple patent published today shows the iPhone being used a universal remote to pair NFC devices.

And, seems that it not only would be able to operate Apple devices like Macs and Apple TV, but even your games consoles.

The controller might be able to interact with an Apple TV - which can currently mirror iOS and Mountain Lion-enabled games over AirPlay. It's yet to be seen whether this controller would interact with only mirrored games or if the Apple TV may be getting comprehensive app and game support in a future update.

In Figure 45C, an iOS device allows you to pair a number of controllers to a videogame console, including the iPhone itself, which then displays a simple, digital gamepad.

Interestingly, the patent also shows the potential for this app to be programmable via a direct connection with an existing controller, like a PS3 controller.

While it's unlikely that Apple is patenting a DualShock-style controller, Apple is likely going to allow the iPhone to pair all your NFC-capable game devices, and possibly use your iPhone for simple NES-style game input. The generic controller displayed in the document is most likely being used strictly as an example of what this NFC patent could be used for. It does not mean that Apple is patenting its own game controller, although it does prove that gaming applications are on the company's mind.

[...]

NFC is shown on board a controller, as well as a range of Apple products that don't currently support NFC - from an iMac to an Apple Remote. The patent shows the iPhone being used in a variety of cases as a universal pairing device, which lets you pair your controllers by tapping them to your iPhone. This all but confirms the wireless technology will be coming to Apple products, like the New iPhone, which already supports credit card and gift card storage in iOS 6 through an app called PassBook.

Keep in mind this is just a patent, so Apple may or may not be planning on releasing this in the future.

You can check out the full patent document HERE.

NEWS SOURCE: Apple patents game controller (via) IGN

Our thanks to 'Gauss' for this news item!

[billysastard]

The iPhone as universal remote?



A new filed patent proposes an iPhone software that could mimic XBOX/PlayStation controllers. It also shows a DualShock-style controller being paired.

An Apple patent published today shows the iPhone being used a universal remote to pair NFC devices.

And, seems that it not only would be able to operate Apple devices like Macs and Apple TV, but even your games consoles.





Interestingly, the patent also shows the potential for this app to be programmable via a direct connection with an existing controller, like a PS3 controller.





Keep in mind this is just a patent, so Apple may or may not be planning on releasing this in the future.

You can check out the full patent document HERE.

NEWS SOURCE: Apple patents game controller (via) IGN

Our thanks to 'Gauss' for this news item!

and this comes on the same day that hackers announce that they have found a way to take control of phones by hijacking the nfc system.

also would you really put your phone down in public to hold a joystick and expect it to stay there for long?