It looks like Microsoft may be developing a new Xbox controller for its upcoming xCloud game streaming service.
For a while now weve known about the companys plans to expand into the cloud gaming market, allowing their players to access an ever-growing library of Xbox titles on just about any device they own.
Much like Google Stadia, theres no shortage of skepticism surrounding Project xCloud. Of course, there are the obvious concerns regarding connectivity and whether our current internet infrastructure will be good enough to stream the latest big name releases.
Another issue is how these games will actually be played on portable devices such as smartphones and tablets.
These mobile platforms boast some of the best, most widely played games in the world though touchscreen controls have long been an obstacle – one Microsoft is looking to bridge with its potential new controller.
In past Project xCloud demonstrations weve seen a smartphone paired with a slightly adapted Xbox One gamepad.
However, a recent Microsoft patent (via Windows Central) points towards a more versatile alternative that takes inspiration from the Nintendo Switch's Joy Con.
This follows a research paper published by Microsoft exploring solutions for playing console games on portable devices.
This controller houses all of the familiar button inputs and can be split into two halves, each one attaching to the sides of your streaming device.
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