Microsoft is experimenting with Xbox controllers for tablets and phones. The controllers attach to the sides of devices to provide an experience that’s just to Nintendo’s Switch. “The success of the Switch is proof to the value of mobile gaming with physical controls,” explains a Microsoft Research paper.
Microsoft has been experimenting with a variety of slide-in grips that can make the attachments far more flexible and less bulky than solutions that already exist like GameCase, GameVice, and ION iCade mobile. Microsoft Research team first documented these prototype controllers back in October and now Microsoft has even patented the idea.
Click here to see the patent
Even after the patents and research it does not mean that we’ll see these controllers in time for the xCloud game streaming launch, but Microsoft has been taking part in its research division in recent years to ensure its inventions come to reality. These prototypes look like a far better solution than connecting up a separate Xbox controller or relying on touch screen controls for games.
Touch Adaptation Kit for xCloud is another thing that Microsoft is also working on so that the developers can make their games more touch-friendly, but the company has always publicly demonstrated its cloud gaming service with an Xbox controller that is attached to an Android phone. We have been waiting for a company to step up and create a good controller design for phones, and Microsoft might just be ready to fill that gap. Best pro gamepad are also made by Microsoft (the Xbox Elite controller), so extending to phones and tablets looks like the next logical step.
