Android 17 to let gamers customize their controllers
What's the story
Google is gearing up to launch a major update for Android, with a special focus on enhancing the gaming experience. According to Android Authority, the Android 17 update will bring native controller remapping capabilities, making it easier for players to customize their gaming controls. This move aligns with Google's efforts to make its operating system more versatile and user-friendly across different devices and platforms.
Compatibility challenges
Current state of controller compatibility
Presently, Android recognizes USB and Bluetooth game controllers as input devices. It converts button presses into key codes and axis values that correspond to in-game actions. While Android maintains predefined configuration files for popular hardware like official Xbox controllers, many other controllers are also compatible because vendors often mimic these popular schemes. However, niche peripherals may not always be compatible with all games on the platform.
User demands
Need for controller remapping in Android
Many gamers are not satisfied with the default button layout on their controllers or how they are mapped in specific titles. This has led to a demand for controller remapping capabilities, especially among users with disabilities, those looking to reduce hand strain, or pro gamers who want to improve reaction times. However, Android currently relies on individual games to provide remapping options and third-party tools for customization.
Feature discovery
New permission for controller remapping
The latest Android Canary release hints at Google's plan to introduce native controller remapping in a future version of the OS. The discovery was made by spotting a new permission, android.permission. CONTROLLER_REMAPPING, within the Android framework. This permission is guarded by a feature flag labeled com.android.hardware.input.controller_remapping and is tied to input devices like game controllers. However, it's limited to apps signed with the platform key, preventing third-party apps from system-wide controller remapping.
Settings update
Dedicated game controller menu
The latest Android Canary release also hints at a new "virtual gamepad" feature. This is likely a software representation of a physical controller, much like how Android already handles virtual cameras for features like the Pixel's Connected Camera. The code allows the system to register a virtual input device using standard hardware identifiers (vendorId and productId), which could be used to trick games into treating it as a real, physical controller.