14 DAY TRIAL // TouchArcade has posted what looks like the first piece of evidence that Apple is going to support gaming controller accessories for the iPhone in an upcoming SDK build, MacRumors is reporting. This alleged “JoyPod” ad, accompanied by a comprehensive description and features list, is apparently coming from popular iPhone / iPod accessory maker Belkin.
The (Spanish) ad says that JoyPod will provide support for Apple's iTunes App Store, which could also mean that an upcoming version of Apple's iPhone Software Development Kit would include support for gaming controller accessories as well.
The JoyPod, according to the features list, sports a total of 8 buttons, with 6 of them on the front of the device (L and R buttons like on the PSP?), audio output (built-in speaker, or, at least, one that doesn't cover the iPhone's speaker), dock connector for power and syncing.
Some time ago, we reported that a certain development team had come up with a similar device, dubbed the iControlPad, based on a "hacked up SNES joypad" which connected to the iPhone's serial port. The next step was to decide on how the controls were going to "hook up to the iPhone itself." The team decided on a PSP-like design for the iControlPad.
“Realize the full potential of the iPhone by adding real controls,” the development team behind the iControlPad said. “Your iPhone just slides in and locks in to place via the serial port, there are no modifications needed and you can remove it at any time.” The iControlPad is already supported by some of the biggest iPhone developers, according to the makers. Those include ZodTTD - PSX, GBA emu, and others. The team is also providing full source code and SDK support. Unlike the JoyPod, the iControlPad is as real as the air you're breathing, but is only supported on jailbroken devices.
