TheLastStarFighter on 17 September 2015
Everyone is missing the point of the pattent. This isn't about the look or # of buttons, that pattent is about the part highlighted in the box in the last diagram, item 24. This also appears to be a direct connection to the earlier pattent shown. The emphasis in this pattent appears to be on a new type of motion and/or touch controls as they talk about rotation and touching the non-face surface. It also describes using it with one hand or two in this way.
I'd suggest Nintendo is envisioning a Wiimote-Gamepad hybrid of some kind, sporting a smaller form, one hand use but also a touch screen and dual analog. It also appears to have some new type of input mechanic. Certainly sounds promising!
