Open-source Bluetooth gamepad goes Kickstarter
updated 02:05 am EDT, Thu April 5, 2012
Seeks $60K in funding for mobile controller
A new hand-sized Bluetooth game controller for iOS and Android devices that features open-sourced software that can be modified and customized by users is under development, and has turned to Kickstarter for funding help. Called the Drone, the controller is a standard six-button game controller aimed at emulator games where traditional players would have a harder time adapting to the touchscreen controls that have now become the norm.
The gamepad's developers, The Evolution Team, have recently redesigned the unit to feature two joysticks instead of one after early backers indicated they would prefer it. The company hopes to raise $60,000 through Kickstarter (currently at around $15,000 with two weeks to go) so the device can go to manufacturing. Once released, users could develop code to use the controller for a variety of platforms and emulators, including compatible Mac, Windows and Linux computers and other devices that are compatible with Bluetooth controllers.
While a retail price has not been set for the Drone, the current backer level requiring $65 to reserve a production unit may indicate the eventual cost when the device comes to market. Levels of donations range from $5 up to $3,500 or more, the latter of which will entitle the donor to a 24 karat gold leaf controller and a 99.99 percent pure silver leafed controller, along with a third "special edition" controller and complementary earbuds.
