Sony Patent Reveals Modular Controller With Detachable Touchscreen

Sony filed a patent for a modular controller that lets players move key controls around the device. This design could change how you interact with menus and notifications without breaking your game flow. The filing suggests Sony is testing ways to keep your hands on the controller while accessing system features.

Sony files patent for controller with magnetic detachable screen and dial

The patent document, identified as 20260199776 A1, describes a controller body with a processor and detachable input devices. These components attach magnetically to the main shell, allowing you to reposition them as needed. The system includes a graphical interface to present selectable icons for navigating console features.

• Patent Document ID: 20260199776 A1
• Key Features: detachable touchscreen, rotating navigation dial, magnetic modular components, built-in support for notifications and quick console controls
• Touchscreen Functionality: displays menus, settings, messages, notifications, phone calls, and alerts; can be tapped like a smartphone and may be physically clickable
• Rotating Dial Functionality: rotates to scroll through menus and settings; pressing confirms selection
• Modularity: dial and screen can be moved to different spots on the controller and attach magnetically

A detachable touchscreen serves as one of the primary input modules. This screen displays menus, settings, messages, and phone alerts, and it can be tapped or physically clicked like a smartphone. A rotating navigation dial acts as a second module, letting you scroll through menus and confirm selections by pressing it.

The patent suggests that interacting with notifications on the touchscreen could automatically pause the game. This feature aims to let you handle alerts without losing your place in a session. The controller body communicates with these user input devices to process your commands.

We looked at Sony Patent Reveals PlayStation Controller Buttons in our earlier Sony coverage. This new filing adds to the list of experimental hardware concepts Sony is exploring for future consoles.

Source: PlayStation Patent, MP1ST