The move is designed to apply some much-needed consistency to the third-party peripherals scene, and it appears the first manufacturer to make good on Apple's plans could be Logitech.
Reports suggest the firm is jumping on the opportunity created by the API and could deliver the first Apple-certified controller for iOS 7.
Gaining control
Admittedly, the picture that currently stands as the sole evidence (below) is a touch blurry, but even talk of its existence speaks volumes about the rate at which the industry is likely to jump on board.
On the left, there's an analog stick (no d-pad), while the right side sports an array of four buttons with an added fifth button below the familiar diamond pattern.
Logitech's prototype is an example of the "form-fitting extended gamepad" style of controller that Apple will support with iOS 7, and it should only be a matter of time before we see a leak of a "standalone extended gamepad" that doesn't require a physical connection.
Although various companies have launched iPhone and iPad controllers in the past with varying degrees of success, the latest wave of Apple-sanctioned controllers should see higher rates of adoption - and thus, sales - due to their integration with iOS 7.
[source: Apple Insider]
