Sony Files Patent for a Radical New PlayStation Controller Concept

Sony's latest hardware design points toward a radical new direction for future PlayStation play.

A PlayStation 5 console with a controller on top.
A PlayStation 5 console with a controller on top.

  • Primary Subject: PlayStation Controller Patent (PS6)
  • Key Update: Sony has been granted a US patent for a controller featuring a large touchscreen that allows players to reconfigure, resize, or remove input placements entirely.
  • Status: Confirmed
  • Last Verified: July 28, 2026
  • Quick Answer: Sony patented a controller using a fully customizable touchscreen instead of traditional fixed buttons to adapt to individual player preferences and accessibility needs.

Sony has obtained a US patent for what some assume to be a PS6 controller.

However, it is unlike any other controller. Why? Because this special controller supposedly has a touchscreen that lets players choose where the buttons should go.

Want to know more? Here's everything we know about the supposed PlayStation controller.

Sony Reportedly Patents Touchscreen PlayStation Controller

It was recently uncovered that Sony filed a patent back in February 2023 for a new controller. The item was described as “designs and methods for a game controller." Many people highly suspect this will be the controller for the next-gen console, the PlayStation 6.

A diagram of a gaming controller showing various components such as buttons, a D-pad, and touch areas, labeled with numbers for reference.
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Credit: USPTO Website

The photo of the patent shows a large touchscreen covering most of the controller, where we would normally find the buttons. Supposedly, players will be able to customize where the D-Pad, sticks, and action buttons go.

The goal is to allow players to customize the controller to their tastes and accessibility needs. It will also let players choose to resize or remove buttons for certain games.

READ MORE: PS6 Will Push the Boundaries of Graphics and Look Slightly Better Than PS4 Games

The patent also claims that the touchscreen would have a pressure sensor and heat sensor to detect the condition of the input surface. It could mean that there are on and off sensors or sensors with different degrees of sensitivity.

However, let's not get too excited. Though the patent was filed, it's unclear if the controller will come out for the PS6.

Sony hasn't mentioned anything regarding their next-gen console officially. In fact, the company has had its hands tied in recent days after the negative backlash from the community following their announcement to stop producing physical games in 2028.

Some community members are even organizing an online protest where users willing to participate won't use their PlayStation devices for a certain period.

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