The virtual controller for games comes to iOS 15

La Worldwide Developer Conference 2021was an opportunity for Apple to present all of its latest software developments, starting with iOS 15. Among the list of the most important changes, one announcement particularly made gamers react: that of new virtual buttons compatible with most games. Interface elements that are certainly native but customizable, in order to give free rein to the imagination of developers.

And in fact, they can now preview the functionality in question, as is usually the case after each WWDC. Of course, since the option is still in beta, it is only available for a relatively limited list of profiles and not yet for the general public. However, this is the ideal opportunity to test its capabilities for deployment on a larger scale.

100% tactile

The iOS 15 virtual game controller offers numerous customization possibilities on the design side, which publishers have the choice to duplicate or not depending on the different titles they offer onl’App Store. Among its advantages, we find classic buttons like those found on the right of the DualShock from Sony (PlayStation), but also a joystick and a directional cross.

Installed at the bottom right and bottom left of the screen, these elements are already shaping up to be a much simpler way for independent studios to finalize their app. A considerable time saving since it only requires relying on lines of code deconstructed and made available by Apple, instead of several potential hours of work.

Soon on our iPhones?

Many games already offer their own controls of this type, we do not yet know if many of them will turn to the Cupertino alternative. In reality, it is even unlikely that content that we already know very well will rush there, at the risk of confusing their audience. Furthermore, certain categories such asrunnersor car racing relies on a hardware component rather than the UI: the accelerometer.

To find out more,the official documentation on this new “virtual controller” is available on the official Apple website, right here. Maybe we can start trying it in a few months, when iOS 15 is finally available to everyone.