Sony files patent application for PlayStation controller with touchscreen

Sony’s US division has filed an updated patent for a likely new PlayStation controller with the United States Patent Office. The description seems to be based on the design of the current Dualshock 4 controller, with a touchscreen as an addition.

The patent application actually describes the current Dualshock 4 controller, with the main addition being a built-in touchscreen. This comes in the top half in the middle of the controller. When a user normally holds the controller with two hands, they can operate the touch-sensitive screen with both thumbs. The screen will probably replace the current touchpad. Sony reports that the touchscreen may also serve as an interface for certain applications.

The document also states that one or more microphones may be integrated into the controller. These microphones probably serve to record the user’s voice. In the patent application, Sony states that this works better than, for example, the use of external microphones. The company says this can help filter out noise or, for example, any voices from other gamers nearby.

It is unclear whether the choice to integrate a touch-sensitive screen will actually get off the ground and if so, whether it is an update of the current controller or whether it is a blueprint for the possible controller of the PlayStation 5.

The current Dualshock 4 controller already has a touchpad that is roughly comparable in functionality to the touchpad of laptops. For example, on the PlayStation 4, the button can be used to pause a game.