Netflix’s new virtual game controller iOS app hints at TV gaming

Netflix has launched a mysterious new gaming controller app for iOS on the App Store, as reported by TechCrunch. The free app, simply called “Netflix Game Controller,” can be downloaded now and says you can “connect to your TV to play” but doesn’t yet have a listed compatible game.

The app’s description says that you’ll be able to use it to play Netflix games on your TV. “Coming soon to Netflix,” the description says. “Play games on your TV with the Netflix Game Controller. This Game Controller app pairs with your TV and allows you to play games on Netflix using your phone or mobile device.”

If you download and launch the app, it asks you to choose a game on your TV and follow directions to connect, which currently does not do anything. The app’s splash screen also points out that “Netflix Games on TV are in beta” and that “some devices may not be supported at this time.”

Netflix hasn’t exactly been shy about hinting in the direction of games on TV. Netflix’s VP of external games, Leanne Loombe, said earlier this year that Netflix wants to make its games “playable on every Netflix device that you have.” Loombe also confirmed that work on a Netflix cloud gaming service was “underway” following Netflix VP of games Mike Verdu’s October announcement that the company is “seriously exploring” starting one — that cloud gaming service could theoretically be a way to play Netflix games on your TV.

Netflix spokesperson Chrissy Kelleher declined to comment to The Verge. At the moment, the game controller app is not available in the Google Play Store.