iOS 16, iPadOS 16 and macOS 13 bring Nintendo Switch controller support

The new iPhone operating system was just announced by Apple and comes up with a variety of exciting news. These include, for example, an improved lock screen or Apple Pay Later. But those who own a Nintendo Switch have additional reason to rejoice. iOS 16 will finally support the Joy-Cons and the Pro controller of Nintendo’s hybrid console. The new iPad operating system, macOS and tvOS also support the controllers.

iOS 16 Nintendo Switch support confirmed

Since iOS 14.5, iPhones have been able to work wirelessly with controllers on PlayStation and Xbox consoles. With the new update iOS 16, which will be launched in the fall of 2022, the Nintendo Switch will finally join them.

So those who like to enjoy their mobile games with a controller have reason to rejoice. Because the iOS 16 Nintendo Switch support has now been confirmed. This is what iOS developer Riley Testut found out after taking a closer look at the developer beta of the operating system.

Via Twitter, Testut confirmed that iOS 16 will support not only the Nintendo Switch Pro controller, but also the Joy-Cons. And that both individually and as a duo. However, the Pro controller in particular should“work perfectly”, according to the developer.

Nintendo Switch controller on all Apple systems

While Testut focuses solely on iOS 16, Nat Brown, engineering manager at Apple, goes even further. Via Twitter, Brown confirmed the compatibility of additional controllers not only for iOS, but also iPadOS, tvOS and macOS with the latest beta of the operating systems.

A report from 9to5Mac also reveals that this doesn’t just affect Nintendo Switch controllers. Gamepads like 8Bitdo, BADA MOGA XP5-X Plus and the Logitech F710 can also be connected to Apple devices and used for gaming from now on.

The two-part Joy-Cons of the Nintendo Switch can be connected as one controller or individually. The switch is made simply by holding the lower button (left: “Capture”, right: “Home”) for a few seconds. Of course, the small and handy Joy-Cons are perfectly suited for mobile gaming on the iPhone, even on the go.