News published on October 30th 2008
First look at possible Sony ‘break-apart’ controller shown in patent images
Through images included in a patent application, Sony has provided us with the first look at what they could be planning for their much rumoured break-apart control that keeps getting mentioned every few months.
It looks like the PS-Eye is involved somehow, and removable face-plates with different buttons, analog nubs and pads play a part as well.
Remember though, a patent does not necessarily mean the company is going to release a product, it just means something could be possible further down the line. We hope it looks nothing like these pictures though if it gets released, as it is just a a tiny bit weird looking.
11 comments ↓
wohdin
October 30th, 2008
lol, Wiimote.
ales
October 30th, 2008
This is too much of a complicated design, won’t work, won’t be manufactured and won’t ever be released for retail.
small faceplates that can get lost.. different configurations of controller from game to game.
Too much hassle and not likely worth it.
however it’s an idea, hopefully they work more on it and make it more user friendly
Michael
October 30th, 2008
If these are from patent applications, it does not meant hat it is intended to be produced, or will even look like that.
It’s not too complicated, these are extremely simple, even more so than the Wiimote in design.
If I were writing a patent, I would include ever possible variation of the product, to protect myself. For example, the double ended controller configuration, could conflict with the rumored Microsoft stick thingy(assuming it’s real, and microsoft hasn’t already filed a patent on it).
All in all, looks interesting. I am some what disappointed that everyone is so crazy about ultrasonics. This calls for using the PSEye to track X and Y, why they don’t look into computervision is a shame.
You could go but two PSEyes right now, and with A small amount of development(like a day), you could track a Dual Shock 3 the same way this patent calls out.
Lloytron
October 30th, 2008
As Michael says, filing a patent doesn’t mean that Sony wants to do anything of the sort. One of the aspects of patents is that if it is granted, they can prevent other companies doing things.
So even if they have no intention of doing anything with controller technology, they could come up with some neat ideas before Nintendo or MS, and actively prevent them from doing so. Or, sue the shit out of them if they do
Xavier
October 30th, 2008
Ha, everybody criticizes the Wii yet all constructors are following its lead with motion detection…
I agree with ales, waaayy too complicated
Alasdair
October 30th, 2008
Although it’s not necessarily a guaruntee that they’ll be producing this kind of controller, let’s not forget the Sixaxis. Obviously, Sony aren’t afraid to tread that ground *cough Wii Ripoff! *cough* and I say that if they want to waste their money by attempting to try another new front, let them do it. That way they’ll do us all a favour and leave the games market sooner.
Ben
October 30th, 2008
Harch words Alasdair! All 3 systems do a good job but for me the PS3 hardware, pads and interface design is a class above the rest. XBL and Wii dashboards are a bit ugly and clunky in comparison. A lot’s down to person taste though.
The Wiimote is a good idea but hasn’t delivered anywhere near its potential. If Sony comes along and produces a similar yet better controller capable of taking FPS to the next level it will only be good for gaming.
firetaw
October 31st, 2008
i dont think this will take of. they would have to create a remote that feels just like a wii mote but handle like a ps3 controller. and utilizing the pseye? kinda farfatch. but people will buy anything to try it out. and if they dont like it well at least they can say they tryed. im guessing another boomerang banana controler in the making. those brings back memories D:
Clinker
October 31st, 2008
All of these comments, and not a single person has pointed out how much this thing looks like a d*ck with balls! Come on people!
http://www.ps3informer.com/playstation-3/news/new-sony-controller-features-balls-wands-009446.php
Alasdair
October 31st, 2008
Sweet Jesus, Clinker is right!
I will never touch that controller… ever.
Seth
October 31st, 2008
Sony press release:
Step 1: If your genitals resemble our new break-apart controller then please consult your local GP.
Step 2: Inform your doctor that your man-bits are infringing our copyright
Step 3: You now have the choice of having the offending article removed, or having your dongle branded with the Sony logo.
Step 4: Play safe!