Sony's New Patents Predicts Your Moves and Turns the PS5 Controller Into a Gun

Sony's latest patent applications hint at exciting advancements in gaming technology, aiming to enhance the overall player experience. These innovations include an AI-powered camera system to predict player actions and a realistic gun trigger attachment for the DualSense controller.

Two New Patents from Sony

AI-Powered Lag Reduction

Sony's "Timed Input/Action Release" patent describes a camera system that observes the player and their controller. This footage is then analyzed by an AI, or a machine learning model, to anticipate the player's next inputs. Alternatively, the system could interpret incomplete controller actions to infer player intent. The goal is to proactively process inputs, mitigating online lag and improving responsiveness in online games. This addresses a persistent challenge in online gaming: latency.

Enhanced Gunplay with DualSense Trigger Attachment

Another notable patent focuses on a trigger attachment for the DualSense controller, designed to elevate the realism of in-game gunplay, particularly in FPS titles and action-adventure RPGs. The attachment allows players to hold the controller sideways, mimicking a gun's grip. The space between the R1 and R2 buttons serves as the sight, and the trigger replicates the firing action. The patent suggests compatibility with other devices, such as the PSVR2 headset.

Sony's prolific patenting history, boasting a significant percentage of active patents, reflects its commitment to innovation. Past concepts have included skill-based adaptive difficulty, a DualSense controller with integrated earbud charging, and a temperature-sensitive controller that dynamically responds to in-game events. However, it's crucial to remember that patents don't guarantee product release; only time will reveal which concepts transition from patent to reality.