- Sony has published a new patent that wants to integrate magnets into controllers instead of a spring-loaded mechanism for buttons.
- The patent argues that using magnets in buttons can improve the lifespan and durability of controllers while springs wear out fast.
- As other similar patents suggest, Sony might integrate magnetic buttons into an upcoming lineup of PlayStation 5 controllers and next-gen models.
Console controllers usually wear out too quickly, with problems like stick drift appearing after just months of use. Now, a new Sony patent might finally be about to evolve them.
This week, we’ve tripped over a new Sony patent that discusses controllers with magnetic mechanisms to replace the traditional springs for buttons. It discusses swapping the spring-loaded mechanisms for a more straightforward yet effective magnetic system to increase their durability.
These proposed controllers can apply magnetic forces to reset the buttons to the original spot after they have been pressed to simplify the structure and improve their lifespan while keeping the immersiveness intact.
The Member to be operated may move from the initial position together with the first magnetic member in a state of being attached to the input device. […] The second magnetic member may bias the member to be operated to the initial position by attracting the first magnetic member.
Why it matters: Sony’s patent on a magnetic system to replace the traditional spring-loaded controller mechanism could greatly increase their durability. Currently, controllers can easily succumb to wear and tear over a short amount of time.
The patent named ‘INPUT DEVICE’ argues that using springs in controllers requires extra internal space, which makes compact designs a big challenge. Additionally, these magnetic buttons can be easily swapped without requiring extra tools.
Two magnetic components are mentioned; the first attaches buttons to the controller using the magnetic force, while the second generates a pull to reset the button back into its starting position.
An operation button is energized to an initial position using […] a spring. A space for securing the elastic force of the elastic member needs to be provided inside the input device.
In future models, Sony may replace the PS5 controller’s spring-loaded mechanism with a magnetic one, following their recent patent for controllers with magnetic, swappable buttons that adapt to different games.
It’s worth noting that some Sony controllers already use magnetic parts, so using them to replace the traditional spring-loaded mechanism will be a step in the right direction.
Sony has patented many unique ideas over the last decade, including a next-gen lip sync system to match different translations with NPC mouth movements and another to create solar-powered controllers with storage that charge under light.
Do you think the new magnetic technology can finally improve the lifespan of traditional Sony controllers? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or join the discussion on the Tech4Gamers forum.
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Shameer Sarfaraz has previously worked for eXputer as a Senior News Writer for several years. Now with Tech4Gamers, he loves to devoutly keep up with the latest gaming and entertainment industries. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and years of experience reporting on games. Besides his passion for breaking news stories, Shahmeer loves spending his leisure time farming away in Stardew Valley. VGC, IGN, GameSpot, Game Rant, TheGamer, GamingBolt, The Verge, NME, Metro, Dot Esports, GameByte, Kotaku Australia, PC Gamer, and more have cited his articles.
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