Apple has Worked on a Game Controller for iOS

When Apple revealed the new iPad, they said the retina display, ram upgrade, and A5X processor would put iPad gaming on par with game consoles. Though there are games out that take advantage of the increase in power and graphics capabilities of the new iPad, none have really pushed it to the limit yet, so these claims have not been verified... yet.

Still, Apple could be preparing for iOS to take over serious gaming, as well as mobile gaming. One thing that may sweeten the deal would be a controller. According to a source at Anandtech claims that they know Apple has been working on an official controller for iOS. A patent application from 2008 certainly proves that Apple has at least thought about such a device. Whether or not the report is true, or if Apple would actually release a device is uncertain. Apple often works on projects that end up going unreleased, so even if they are working on a controller, there's no guarantee it would be released.

There have been 3rd party controllers for the iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch in the past. However, while they work well, none have gotten enough developer support to become really popular. Developers have a hard time committing to a 3rd party controller, as they don't know if people will buy them, or if the support for the controller will worth their time to add. But, if Apple were to release a controller, it would get more support from developers, and be a more attractive option for consumers. Then there are some that say the touch screen is all any iOS device needs for games, and this seems to be the kind of stance Apple would take as well.

Via MacRumors