Sony’s DualSense controller is known for its innovative adaptive triggers, and it seems the company is exploring similar technology for its future controllers’ face buttons. A recently discovered Sony patent details a system that can change how firm or soft these buttons feel during gameplay. This could provide players with more realistic and immersive tactile feedback based on what’s happening in the game.
This invention achieves the desired result by using a special material called magnetoviscoelastic elastomer to make the buttons. Researchers are also investigating fluid-filled membranes as another way to create this same effect.
Sony’s patent details several ways these buttons could be used to enhance gameplay. For instance, one idea involves a button that softens as you press it, almost like it’s ‘grabbing’ your finger – mirroring an in-game grabbing action. Other concepts include making buttons feel softer when navigating environments like swamps and harder when climbing mountains, adding to the immersive experience.
Sony has also pointed out that this technology could be helpful for people with disabilities. It’s adaptable and could be used with parts of the body beyond just fingers – think palms, elbows, or even attached tools.
Before modern consoles like the Nintendo GameCube, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3 popularized analog triggers, controllers often used pressure-sensitive face buttons. For instance, in the game Gran Turismo 4, players could precisely control acceleration by varying how firmly they pressed the X button, which was set as the default acceleration control.
Like the original PlayStation 2 version, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater used the face buttons’ pressure sensitivity for its close-quarters combat. Gently pressing and holding the ‘O’ button allowed Snake to grab and interrogate an enemy. Pressing harder on the same button would cause him to slit the enemy’s throat.
Sony continues to develop new technologies, as shown through numerous patent filings. One recent example from 2023 details how Sony is investigating ways to improve accessibility using the DualSense controller. The idea involves employing machine learning to understand a player’s typical style and then guiding them by lighting up the buttons needed for success – essentially offering dynamic hints.
The company is exploring ways to use AI to help gamers who are stuck. They filed a patent in January for an “AI Ghost Player” – a system that could guide players through difficult sections of a game. This feature would also be adjustable, letting players control how often the ghost player appears and how much assistance it provides.
Like all patent applications, this doesn’t guarantee these features will actually appear in a product. Companies frequently file patents while exploring new technologies as part of their research and development. Unless Sony officially confirms it, don’t expect to see a DualSense controller with buttons that change firmness anytime soon.
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2026-06-17 14:42