Smartphones Becoming Game Controllers for Google TV Devices

Google is reportedly working on a feature that will allow users to turn their smartphone into a virtual game controller for Google TV devices. This move aims to make couch gaming more accessible, as it eliminates the need to buy dedicated hardware.

The code strings and settings for a dedicated gamepad mode were discovered in an APK teardown of the Google TV app by Android Authority. This feature will allow users to interact with games on their TV using their phone screen, which is not entirely new. Google recently introduced a similar virtual gamepad layout for foldable phones in Android 17.

Using a smartphone as a game controller does come with trade-offs, including the lack of physical buttons and tactile feedback. However, it may be a more convenient option for casual gaming, especially considering that entry-level Google TV dongles have modest processing hardware, making high-end gaming less accessible.