Abstract: Space inside a handheld game controller can be limited, making it difficult to add a new or different user input device without increasing the overall size of the handheld game controller. The embodiments provided herein describe user input devices configured for use in such a space-constrained environment. In one embodiment, a cantilevered button is used when a component inside the handheld game controller is positioned in a path between the button and a switch. In another embodiment, an opening is made in a circuit board inside the handheld game controller to allow a joystick assembly to pass through the circuit board. Other embodiments are disclosed, and each embodiment can be used alone or in combination with other embodiments.

Abstract: One challenge of designing a handheld game controller to accommodate thicker phones and phone cases is that it tends to make the handheld game controller thicker. A thicker handheld game controller increases weight, volume and material expense. In one embodiment, a handheld game controller is provided with an “overhang” that solves this problem by decoupling increased thickness of the phone from the requirement of increasing controller thickness. This allows for the benefits of broader phone and case support, while maintaining a more-comfortable posture.