https://developer.apple.com/ios7/
Apple announced a new GameController API yesterday, to be included in the upcoming iOS7. There's already a detailed programming guide in the new beta SDK for iOS developers.
Meanwhile AIR Mobile SDK 3.7 just added GameInput support!
It would be great if AIR iOS got gamepad support now! Especially as this is a strong sign from Adobe that Apple TV, including a gamepad, is on its way - it would be great if AIR Mobile were one step ahead as a game development tool on that platform when it appears!