Long rumored - and hoped for - GDC 2013 has finally provided confirmation that Apple will release its own dedicated game controller, PocketGamer.biz reports.

There's no official word yet, but Apple has been active during the conference talking to developers about its plans and ensuring plenty of games will support the joypad at launch. It's been operating a meeting room at the show, albeit booked under a pseudonym company name to avoid media attention. However, speaking anonymously, multiple developer sources have confirmed the news, PocketGamer.biz says.

It's expected Apple will formally announce its plans during its annual April press event; previously this has been centered around the iPad.