by 
Today, Patently Apple is reporting that Apple was granted approval for a gaming device that may mean the mobile device maker is in the market to compete in the console game arena.
The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) recently published a grant for Apple that relates to a gamepad and joystick. The patent covers attachable game controller accessories that could stick to the touchscreen surface of an iPad display to give the gamer more control over their games. It also makes it possible for developers to have a common joystick structure so they can follow a specific guideline for controller activity.
From Patently Apple:
“Apple has been granted a patent today for their invention relating to portable electronic devices and, more particularly, to a structure which enables touch-sensitive areas of a touchscreen to be activated. The patent describes iDevice accessories that cover both gamepad and joystick attachment structures that could be attached and removed quickly.”
Interestingly, this technology already exists. The JOYSTICK-IT iPad Arcade Stick has been around since early 2011 and Ten One Design launched The Fling around the same time.
As you can see from the illustrations that were included with the patent, the structure is very similar to that of the JOYSTICK-IT. However, it appears that Apple’s joystick uses individual buttons instead of a conductive padding that allows gamers the flexibility of a fully rotatable joystick.
If Apple does create a joystick and forces game developers to adhere to their specific design for the touchscreen controls, it may make gaming without an Apple-branded controller awkward. It would also put some touchscreen joystick makers out of business.
» Related posts:
US Patent Office Publishes Apple iTravel Patent with Passbook Info
New Apple Patent Makes Your iPad Shake, Vibrator Mode Coming Soon
Is Apple Going to Debut an iOS Game Controller in April?
