“Apple Files For A New Gaming Accessory Patent”

Finally!

Of course it shouldn’t be patentable (but who cares, nobody else will need it), and the accompanying image ignores the existence of analog sticks, but that’s still such an overdue development.

I’m not sure if the date (April 1st) shows when Apple applied for the patent, or when it was registered by the USPTO. Do you think Apple would register frivolous patents it doesn’t intend to develop as an April’s Fools? (Okay, I think they would; but would it be that patent?)

Of course, I’m aware that just because they’re trying to patent it doesn’t mean they’re going to release it, sadly. But it’s at least an official acknowledgment that the iPhone lacks something button-shaped in the gaming department.