Sony Interactive Entertainment has filed a patent for new PlayStation controller charging technology, which could drastically change how players charge their accessories. The patent is for solar-powered controllers that would feature photovoltaic elements, eliminating the need for an external power source.
Sony patents tech that’ll keep a PlayStation controller charged at all times
As spotted by Tech4Gamers, the patent was published earlier this month but Sony has been working on the tech since at least 2023. The idea here is for controllers to self-charge when exposed to light, so players won’t need a charger or external power source in the absence of replaceable batteries.
“Game controllers that use batteries require battery replacement or charging when the battery runs out,” the filing reads. “Therefore, if there is no replaceable battery or no charger or external power source to charge the battery, the power for the game controller cannot be secured and the game controller cannot be operated.”
The solution? A controller that charges itself whenever there’s ample light.
Sony says that the controller would be designed in such a way that players’ hands and movements wouldn’t be in the way of its its photovoltaic elements, so technically, the controllers could continue charging even as players are using them.
Patents don’t always come to fruition, so this tech might never see the light of day, but it’s an interesting idea. Do our readers think the PS6 will come with solar-powered controllers?
