Threads
- Sony has published a new patent to let players swap buttons in controllers with easily removable magnetic parts.
- These parts can be magnetically attached, so the player can remove them without needing tools for specific layouts.
- The patent argues that there can be some games that do not require specific buttons or might need a certain layout.
We’ve found a new Sony patent that wants to secure game controllers with magnetic parts to let players swap buttons on the go. The patent discusses swappable magnetic buttons that can be changed as the player wishes.
Sony notes many games either underuse buttons or work better with specific layouts. This new patent will let players customize controller buttons before gaming for preferred playstyles.
some of these games do not use a part of [Controller Buttons]. Therefore, there is a desire to be able to select the presence or absence of operated members on the input device at the discretion of the user according to the games.
Why it matters: The new Sony patent might be for an upcoming lineup of PlayStation controllers with swappable buttons for repair and gameplay purposes.
The patent dubbed ‘INPUT DEVICE AND OPERATED MEMBER’ talks about controllers with magnetic buttons that can be removed without requiring disassembly or tools. Players can easily change these buttons for repair or gameplay purposes.
Sony argues that current controllers lack physical adaptability to games, sticking to standard layouts. While some allow button swapping, the process is often cumbersome.
the rear buttons are attached to the holes by magnetic force. […] The user can remove the rear buttons attached to the main body without the use of a tool or the like.
It is worth noting that the PS5 Access Controller and DualSense Edge already feature some of these controller features. DualSense Edge requires disassembly and only allows for a limited extent of button customization, while PS5 Access is an accessibility controller.
So, we might see a lineup of Sony PlayStation controllers that feature magnetic swappable buttons without requiring any tools or technical prowess.
Sony has also published a lot of other unique ideas over the years, including a new controller with deformable grips that enhances the haptic feedback experience for players and another one to fix latency issues in games by predicting player inputs in advance.
Do you think the patent for swapping controller buttons will be used as an actual feature in Sony controllers? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or join the discussion on the Tech4Gamers forum.
Thank you! Please share your positive feedback. 🔋
How could we improve this post? Please Help us. 😔
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.
Join Our Community
