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Android Foldables Get Built-In Gamepad
26 Jun
Summary
- New Android gaming mode for foldables features a virtual gamepad.
- Controller emulates physical button presses, supporting games with physical controller support.
- Mode activates by unfolding the device, or auto-disables with a physical controller.
Android 17 is set to launch a dedicated gaming mode for foldable devices in the coming months. This innovative feature will overlay a virtual gamepad with touch controls onto half of the screen, designed to simplify mobile gaming.
The virtual controller emulates system-level physical button presses, ensuring compatibility with any game that supports physical controllers. It includes a D-pad, analog sticks, A/B/X/Y buttons, shoulder buttons (L1/R1, L2/R2), and a start button. Users can personalize the gamepad's layout, button size, and haptic feedback.
Activating the mode is as easy as unfolding the device, either before or after launching a game. For user convenience, the virtual gamepad can be hidden, and it automatically deactivates if a physical controller is connected. This feature addresses the inconvenience of carrying external controllers, bridging the gap for an improved gaming experience on the go.
