Sony PS5 Controller Device Patent Mock-Up
Image: LetsGoDigital

What the heck is that thing? Surely that's not Sony's final design for the PlayStation 5 controller? Well, you can rest easy -- this is something else entirely. We already know that the DualShock 5 will look pretty much the same as the PS4 controller, so where does this crazy device come into play?

It's another recent patent from Sony Interactive Entertainment, as discovered by the ever-vigilant LetsGoDigital. The above image is a 3D render based on the sketches within the patent document, but as the tech site itself admits, this is unlikely to be a final design. What's more interesting is the functionality of this device.

The patent filing makes for heavy reading, but here are the basics. This little doodad can supposedly connect via Bluetooth/WiFi to multiple devices, such as a PC, games console, or smart TV, and it can transfer data between them. An example given by LetsGoDigital is that this controller-looking thing could beam a PC game to your TV to play it there instead of at the PC itself, or send photos or music from one to the other.

Sony PS5 Controller Device Patent
Image: LetsGoDigital

However, it goes further than that. What's most interesting about this patented gadget is its ability to provide the user with context-sensitive information, depending on your location. Options displayed on the device's screen will change if, say, you're out and about rather than at home. Examples given are that you may be able to view a map while you're outside, or fire up a game with a friend while you're at their house. Basically, it'll be able to pull relevant info for you instead of having one concrete set of options. With a fingerprint scanner, gyroscopes, a heart rate monitor and more, it sounds like it's full of functionality.

LetsGoDigital notes that this patent was published more quickly than usual, and it suspects this speed may indicate that Sony is pushing forward with this device, or at least its tech. We suppose it's possible some of this stuff could become part of the PS5's controller, but it seems equally likely that this will remain some standalone gadget. It's an interesting thing either way, but what do you make of it? Would you find this curious device useful? Will it see the light of day, or will it remain on paper? Tell us what you think in the comments below.

[source nl.letsgodigital.org, via nl.letsgodigital.org]