Nick Fernandez / Android Authority
The vast majority of Android games use touchscreen controls, which makes sense since most Android devices are smartphones or tablets. However, there’s a growing number of Android games you can play with a controller — a list that will only expand as the operating system reaches new form factors. Furthermore, the rising popularity of cloud gaming allows Android users to play many non-touchscreen titles that aren’t natively available on the platform. To better bridge the gap between these input methods, Google is working on new features in Android 17 that will give gamers more control over button presses. You’re reading the Authority Insights Newsletter, a weekly newsletter that reveals some new facet of Android that hasn’t been reported on anywhere else. If you’re looking for the latest scoops, the hottest leaks, and breaking news on Google’s Android operating system and other mobile tech topics, then we’ve got you covered.
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How Android handles game controllers When you connect a USB or Bluetooth gaming controller to your Android device, the operating system treats it as an input device and registers the events created by button presses. Android translates these presses into specific key codes and axis values, which then map to in-game actions and movements in supported titles.
Android relies on predefined configuration files to map these input events. To determine which configuration to use, the OS checks the controller’s vendor and product ID. Because it is impossible to build specific configurations for every controller on the market, Android maintains files only for the most popular hardware, such as official Xbox controllers.
Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority Android's key configuration file for the Xbox One Controller when connected via USB.
This doesn’t mean that Android won’t work with niche peripherals, though. Many vendors mimic the controller schemes of major brands to ensure Android and other operating systems recognize their inputs. This compatibility strategy allows Android to work with a vast array of controllers right out of the box.
However, some players may not enjoy the default button layout on their controllers or how they’re mapped in specific titles. There are countless reasons why someone might want to customize their controls: Accessibility: Users with disabilities may need to remap buttons to make essential functions easier to reach.
Users with disabilities may need to remap buttons to make essential functions easier to reach. Ergonomics: Players looking to reduce hand strain may prefer moving high-frequency actions to buttons that require less force.
Players looking to reduce hand strain may prefer moving high-frequency actions to buttons that require less force. Competition: Pro gamers may map certain actions to specific buttons to improve reaction times.
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