Sony: Modular controller with touchscreen spotted—for the PlayStation 6?

Console controllers across all major platforms now largely share the same basic layout, typically offering two analog sticks, face buttons, a directional pad, and shoulder buttons. A recently published patent suggests that Sony is experimenting with alternative controller designs. The document, released on July 16, 2026 under the number US-20260199776-A1, describes a modular gamepad that features an input module which can be attached to different positions on the controller. According to the patent, this module may be held in place magnetically and could serve not only as an additional input surface, but also as a small display for notifications.

In principle, Sony’s modular concept goes well beyond a simple display add-on. The patent outlines the possibility of placing individual control elements, such as joysticks or keypads, directly on the controller in various configurations. This could allow manufacturers to better address different ergonomic needs and, for instance, accommodate players with limited mobility. It is also conceivable that the choice and placement of control elements could be adapted to specific games—for example, adding more buttons when two analog sticks are not required. While modular controllers already exist, the design described in Sony’s filing preserves the familiar, classic gamepad form factor. The overall shape therefore appears less flexible than solutions like the ByoWave Proteus, which take a far more radical approach to modularity.

As usual, the patent publication merely shows that Sony is considering new control concepts and does not imply that such a controller will reach the market any time soon, if at all. It remains entirely possible that the company will not pursue this idea beyond the patent stage.