PlayStation Files Patent For Buttonless Controller, PS6 Just Got Interesting

Sony has filed a new patent for a controller without physical buttons, which has me wondering - where exactly is the future of play going for the launch of the PS6, and beyond?

We all know Sony is no stranger to revolutionising the game with its controller technology. The PS5 DualSense controller redefined immersion in games by introducing haptic feedback and dynamic adaptive triggers.

Moments like feeling the tension in Aloy’s bow in Horizon: Forbidden West, or Returnal perfecting the feeling of rain pattering on the cold ground made the games feel tangible and deliberate, and they've stuck with me way more than it would typically. It's about the small things, really. A tool for storytelling, not just for playing.

But this latest patent could set a new standard for what console gaming hardware can do.

What Could A Buttonless PlayStation Controller Look Like?

The patent, first spotted in recent filings by Android Headlines, outlines a concept controller that replaces traditional face buttons, triggers, and D-pads with a touch surface.

Well, how would that possibly work? It seems like the controller is alive. Kinda.

Sony patent for buttonless controller

Instead of your typical fixed inputs (that classic triangle, circle, cross and square we all know and love), the controller would adapt to how you hold it, based on your personal grip, finger placement, and pressure. This would create context-dependent virtual buttons that are bespoke to you, which might even change between games.

Gesture-based inputs also seem to be a key focus for Sony moving forward. Swipes, taps and holds can input different controls, similar to how we see in wireless headphones. I’d love that feature when listening to Spotify (or whatever platform you listen to) through my console.

From a gameplay perspective, imagine swiping down on your controller to skip a cutscene. Much better than accidentally mashing through a cutscene with circle. Then again, I’d skip all the cutscenes and still complain I had no idea what was going on.

Listen, I'm not using generative AI to create an image to speculate about what it could possibly look like. Instead, please enjoy my artist's rendition. Minds out the gutter, please.

PS6 controller

Why Could This Be The Future of Gaming?

This idea could be huge from an accessibility point of view. Our WWE superfan and writer Rich has often mentioned how tricky the DualSense can be for his arthritis, and the idea that this patent could help him play in more comfort makes me so happy.

For players who struggle with precise button presses or the adaptive triggers of the PS5 DualSense, this potential controller could be a more inclusive alternative.

PlayStation has made great strides in accessibility in recent years with its Access Controller, so it’s great to see this is still a key consideration for Sony moving forward.

That said, I have to remind you to keep your expectations in check.

It’s not the first time a patent has been filed, just to amount to some research and experimentation. There's even some recent PlayStation patents I hope don't go anywhere.

There’s no indication this controller is intended for the PS6, or any specific upcoming console.

Still, I can’t wait to see where Sony takes the future of play.

Personally I’d love to see a future where gaming is truly ‘for the players’. Shout out EA, you said it best.

With PS6 delay rumours bubbling, we might have to wait a while to see if this patent goes anywhere.