We’ve seen a few funny patents from Sony in the gaming space over the years, but the PlayStation-maker’s latest might actually be gunning for something new. Since the current DualSense controller is still selling like, well, DualSense controllers, there’s the possibility Sony is prepping for the next-gen PS6.
Totally modular, dude
Of course, a patent doesn’t mean we’ll see it in the flesh. You’ll have to wait for Sony to confirm it before you let the hype settle in. Just look at the countless other yet-to-be-realised patents floating around. But this one — filed 16 July under the number US-20260199776-A — which describes a modular controller, may see the light of day.
The patent specifically describes a module that can be magnetically attached to the controller. What would it do? That bit might be up to you. The touchscreen display could serve notifications right to your hand. Or what if it wasn’t a touchscreen, but rather an extra pair of analogues that’ll replace some other buttons?
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That’s the thinking with a modular controller. That isn’t new information. Those exist, and can be had for a relatively low price. They might not have the same build quality or the same level of access to certain features that something from Sony’s hardware line might. Hell, Sony might even develop game-specific modules.
Despite the creativity that the whole ‘modular controller’ thing provides, it still seems Sony won’t go balls to the wall. It doesn’t want to lose sight of the more traditional look and feel of its DualSense controllers. It’ll mean less flexibility in the long run — but it also offers gamers something familiar to latch onto.
