Apple is reportedly developing its first gaming controllers under the Beats brand, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The two models, identified as T6502 and T1057 in leaked macOS code, could bring physical controls, haptics, motion sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity to iPhone gamers, offering Apple a lower-risk entry into gaming hardware.
The controllers, which have been in development for over a year, are being led by Beats executives. The leaked profiles describe two conventional gamepads with dual thumbsticks, ABXY buttons, shoulder buttons, and analog triggers. The T6502 model may use USB connectivity with four haptic channels across two motors, while the T1057 adds Bluetooth, motion sensors, and a single haptic motor.
Apple has not confirmed the controllers, their branding, pricing, or release timeline. The software references appeared in a macOS 26.7 release candidate in September, with later changes to those references leaving launch plans uncertain.
Beats could give Apple more flexibility in pricing and design, allowing it to challenge established brands like Backbone, Razer, GameSir, Sony, and Microsoft without the premium Apple pricing. The brand’s lifestyle identity, focused on entertainment, fashion, and youth culture, makes a colorful plastic gamepad a natural fit.
If Apple moves forward, the strategy could extend Beats beyond audio accessories and strengthen the iPhone’s position as a serious gaming device, with tighter integration with Apple Arcade and other Apple platforms.
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