Sony has filed a patent for a multifunctional PlayStation controller. Notably, the proposed design includes slots for charging earbuds. GameRant was the first to spot this recently published patent, which outlines a controller that could serve not just as a gaming input but also as a headphone storage, charger, and connection case.
The standout feature of the patent is its focus on enhancing user convenience. “Using the controller as a headphone case and an earbud charger eliminates the need to manage two separate devices,” the patent reads. In essence, gamers could manage their earbuds directly through their PlayStation controller, making it easier to organize and communicate with their gaming systems.
While it’s important to note that not all patents result in market-ready products, this potential development fits neatly within Sony’s broader hardware strategy. For instance, the company has already released its first official pair of wireless earbuds—Pulse Explore—which could be seamlessly integrated with such a multifunctional controller.
Moreover, Sony has been expanding its portfolio in portable gaming, a move signalled by the upcoming launch of the PlayStation Portal—a handheld device aimed at streaming PS5 games.
Sony has a busy slate of hardware releases lined up:
- The company is on the verge of launching the PS5 Slim, a more compact version of its popular gaming console.
- The much-anticipated PlayStation Portal is set for a release date of November 15.
- Another controller, dubbed the PlayStation Access, is also in the pipeline for release later this year.
Given the company’s active developments in both console and peripheral hardware, Sony seems committed to providing a more integrated and streamlined user experience for gamers. Only time will tell if this innovative controller with earbud-charging slots will make it past the patent stage, but it clearly shows that Sony is thinking creatively about the future of gaming.
For more information, stay tuned as we continue to cover the exciting developments on the Sony PlayStation front.