Samsung launches gaming accessory for Android 4.1

NEW DELHI, INDIA: Samsung has launched a new accessory called GamePad and a Mobile Console app for a Smartphone that runs Android 4.1 or higher devices.

The GamePad can accommodate smartphones with 4 to 6.3-inches display size. It is optimized to work with Samsung devices such as Galaxy Note 3, S4, Note II and Galaxy S III for easy connectivity via NFC.

The Mobile Console app is the integrated game launching app. Users can enjoy some "console-quality" games on their mobile screen with much more usable physical control buttons on the GamePad.

The variety of games that are compatible with GamePad include Need for Speed Most Wanted, Asphalt 8: Airborne, Modern Combat 4: Zero Hour, Virtua Tennis, Prince of Persia: The Shadow and the Flame and several other titles. The GamePad requires the Mobile Console app to launch the supporting game.

Weighing 195 grams, the GamePad has Bluetooth 3.0, NFC and is optimised for Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and higher running devices. The GamePad offers one directional pad with 8 way control, 2 Analog sticks, 4 Action buttons, 2 Trigger buttons, Select and Start buttons, and finally the PLAY button that works with Samsung devices running Android 4.3 Jelly Bean or higher. Samsung has packed 160 mA rechargeable battery.

Samsung is yet to announce the price and availability.