Apple patent points to potential Vision Pro gaming controller

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While Apple's Vision Pro headset boasts impressive specs, its gaming potential is hampered by a lack of dedicated VR controllers. Although compatible with console controllers and hand tracking, neither offers an ideal VR gaming experience. However, a newly discovered patent application, titled "Handheld Input Devices," suggests Apple may be developing its own solution. The patent depicts a Wii-style stick controller, hinting at a focus on gaming, despite the patent's vague description of its uses.

This move signals Apple's increased interest in Vision Pro gaming. While collaboration with Sony for PSVR2 controller support has been rumoured, developing its own controller demonstrates a greater commitment and investment. The patent doesn't reveal the controller's final design or functionality, but it confirms Apple's active exploration of dedicated VR input.

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Apple's foldable future: Patent hints at crease-free displays

Image: Patently Apple

Apple may be closer to launching a foldable iPhone or iPad thanks to a new patent for crease-resistant displays. The patent, discovered by Patently Apple, details a process for thinning the folding area through chemical treatments and potentially using different materials to maintain a smooth surface.

Industry insiders in Korea suggest a 2026 launch is more likely, contradicting analyst Ming-Chi Kuo's prediction of a 20.3-inch foldable MacBook in 2027.

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Apple’s new patents could make your iPhone screen invisible to thieves

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It was reported earlier this year that iPhone owners are at risk of having their devices stolen and their data accessed by thieves who watch them enter their passcode. The thieves can reset the Apple ID password and use Apple Pay, Apple Cash, and banking apps with the passcode. Apple said in a reply to this The Wall Street Journal report that it will keep improving the protections to help secure user accounts, but did not specify how. 

But now we learn it may be working on hardware solutions to prevent “shoulder surfers” from seeing the screen, as it has two new patents for limiting screen visibility.

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Patent filing shows Apple's plans for game controller concept

It looks like Apple is thinking about what it can offer in the gaming space. A patent filing shows what the company is thinking about regarding gaming controllers. The filing is titled "Magnetically Attachable Gaming Accessory, showing an accessory that could "readily attach to an electronic device, can be easy to use, and can have a small and efficient form factor." It seems Nintendo Switch-like, with the controller being either attached to the device or used separately (à la Nintendo Joy-Cons). But it will use magnets, which we presume rely on MagSafe or a variation of it.

One of the controller variations shown in the patent comes with a projector, which would be a new offering in the space. If it ever becomes a product, you don't even have to worry about having a bigger display nearby to play. We have to repeat this again, but patents don't always mean these ideas become actual products. But it does show us the headspace of the company when it comes to thinking about gaming. We're hoping it pushes through with this one.

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