iOS 7 includes support for MFi Game Controllers

BY Jason

Published 14 Jun 2013

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At the WWDC Keynote on Monday, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, Craig Federighi announced that iOS 7 SDK will includes more than 1500 new APIs for developers.

If you’re a hardcore gamer, then the good news is that Apple has added APIs for MFi (Made for iPod/iPhone/iPad) game controllers.

While most games work quite well with touch, there are some games that would be more suitable with physical buttons that are available on game controllers.

The APIs will finally allow accessory manufacturers to create game controllers for Apple’s iOS devices, which should make them an attractive alternative for hardcore gamers who prefer to use portable gaming devices like Playstation Vita.

MacRumors reports that Apple has been working with Logitech and MOGA to product game controllers for iOS devices.

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Game developers will also have to include support for new MFi Game Controller APIs in iOS 7, along with support for touch-based gaming input.

Back in March, there was rumors that Apple will launch its own game controller for iOS devices, however well-connected Apple blogger, Jim Dalrymple had categorically refuted it. It suggests that Apple is counting on accessory manufacturers to create iOS game controllers.

So when will we see the first iOS game controllers? It is anybody’s guess, but we expect them to be showcased at the same event, the next generation iPhone will be unveiled, which is widely expected in September.

via MacRumors