# Beats brand readies budget iPhone controllers under Apple ownership

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/apple-to-launch-iphone-gaming-controllers-under-beats-brand-entering-competitive-peripheral-market/
- Published: 2026-09-13T20:10:52+00:00
- Updated: 2026-09-14T02:17:43+00:00
- Topics: Art, Culture, Entertainment, Gadgets, Gaming, Technology

## Key points

- Apple is making two iPhone game controllers, likely under Beats
- Code references were found in macOS, not iOS, but target iPhones
- Beats used to hit lower price points outside Apple's premium design ethos

## Summary

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has confirmed that Apple is developing two game controllers for the iPhone, correcting earlier speculation that arose after MacRumors found references to first-party controllers in macOS 26.7's code rather than iOS. Gurman clarifies the devices are nonetheless designed for iPhones, and, notably, that Beats executives are leading the project, making it likely the controllers will launch under the Beats brand rather than Apple's own name. This matters as it signals Apple's entry into the accessories side of mobile gaming, using its subsidiary to reach price-conscious buyers.

Apple has a history of using Beats to experiment outside its usual premium design standards and hit lower price points, as it already does with Beats-branded iPhone cases and USB-C cables. Gurman suggests that gaming controller "culture and lifestyle" fits naturally with Beats' identity, and that keeping the devices affordable will mean avoiding the costlier materials and finishes typical of Apple's own product line. No pricing, launch date or design details have been disclosed.

## Coverage

- [Engadget: Apple’s rumored gaming controller for iPhone could feature Beats branding](https://www.engadget.com/2256955/apples-rumored-gaming-controller-for-iphone-could-feature-beats-branding/)
- [The Verge: Apple is reportedly working on iPhone game controllers](https://www.theverge.com/tech/994426/apple-iphone-game-controllers)

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.