Sony Patent Reveals New PlayStation Portable Console Hybrid Inspired by Nintendo Switch
Entry information
Published on: February 17, 2017
Description
Sony appears to be taking notable cues from the Nintendo Switch, as a newly published PlayStation patent suggests the development of a portable console hybrid featuring detachable controllers.
The patent, first publicized by VGChartz community member Kresnik, details a device with design elements evidently inspired by the Nintendo Switch’s widely praised hybrid form factor.
Filed on February 16th, 2017, and currently available exclusively in Japanese, the patent documentation features technical diagrams and descriptions that indicate a tablet-like main unit paired with detachable controllers.
These controller components are distinguished by their use of familiar PlayStation button shapes—square, triangle, circle, and cross—whose legacy stretches back to the original PlayStation hardware.
According to translated excerpts from the patent, the device—referred to as an “operation device (information processing device 1A)”—consists of a main body and at least one attached operation unit.
Key emphasis is placed on ergonomics, with specific mention of contact points for various fingers, including a grip designed for user comfort.
Additionally, the design incorporates vibration feedback (akin to Sony's DualShock technology), suggesting a tactile gaming experience.
The patent further details how each controller is constructed, highlighting the presence of a grip section tailored for single-hand use, multiple contact points for different fingers, and adjustable dimensions between these points to accommodate various hand sizes.
Integral to this design is a housing structure equipped with a motor to provide haptic feedback, and a specific configuration of front and back casing components, each weighted and balanced for optimal handling.
Notably, the heavier front component contrasts with a lighter rear shell, incorporating a gap between their edges for practical controller attachment and detachment.
This latest patent is reminiscent of Sony’s historical pattern of integrating concepts pioneered by Nintendo into the PlayStation ecosystem.
While imitation is a natural aspect of competitive business, the resemblance of this hybrid concept to the Nintendo Switch’s signature feature set has not gone unnoticed.
It underscores the evolving landscape of portable gaming, where Nintendo’s innovation with the Switch—originally released in March 2017—has invigorated both consumer demand and industry response for hybrid platform versatility.
It’s also worth noting the reporting process regarding this discovery.
Contrary to some claims by IGN.com, which attributed the find to a NeoGAF user, VGChartz’s community was first to bring attention to the patent, as verified by the forum’s timestamp.
As of writing, Sony has not issued an official statement or announced any forthcoming hardware utilizing this design.
The patent filing, however, provides a fascinating window into Sony Interactive Entertainment’s ongoing research and potential future directions for portable PlayStation gaming.
With the Nintendo Switch continuing to set sales records globally and reaffirming the hybrid portable model’s market appeal, industry observers will be watching closely for any official PlayStation announcements that may further ignite competition in the handheld console space.
