The PlayStation 5 isn't the only next-gen gaming hardware that Sony's working on, it seems. Wednesday morning a new patent registered by Sony came to light. The patent is for a new version of controllers that are strikingly similar to other companies' virtual reality controllers. As such, they're likely for the PlayStation VR headset or for its rumored follow-up hardware, the PS VR 2. The new controllers notably feature technology for tracking hand and finger movement.

According to UploadVR, the patent is titled "Controller Device" and makes no overt reference to virtual reality. It does, however, confirm that it's made for a "home-use game machine." Further details in the patent's description list that the controller "detects movement of a user's hand" and that "a plurality of sensor units ... detect the fingers of the user." These sensors measure the "proximity or contact" of the player's fingers in relation to the controller itself.

RELATED: Sony Patent Could Hint at PlayStation VR 2.0 Design

As for the shape and structure of patented controllers, they're very similar in idea to the Valve Index controllers. That is to say, they're basically the shape of a JoyCon, but with a strap that will go over the back of the hand. This way, the controller stays in the hand even if the player lets go with their fingers or makes a fist. In the thumb position is a joystick and in the index finger position is a trigger. For the remaining four fingers, there are the aforementioned sensors that aren't buttons, but can sense contact.

This isn't the first such controller that Sony has patented. In early 2018, Sony patented a controller with very similar design. That controller was more in the shape of current PS VR Move controllers with a cylinder shape, but no orb. It also had a strap to keep the controller attached to the hand and sensors on the base to measure finger movement. The new patent is likely an improved iteration of that past design.

next-gen ps vr controllers

It needs to be reiterated that Sony has yet to announce any of its plans for future PlayStation VR hardware. All that Sony has confirmed is that that the PS5 will support the current-generation PS VR headset.

As for rumors, there are many swirling about Sony's plans for a new PS VR headset. Some rumors point to the PS VR 2 headset to be revealed alongside the PS5 at an upcoming PlayStation meeting event. Other rumors say that while the PS VR 2 headset won't launch alongside the PS5 this holiday, it'll follow in the relatively near future. Apparently Sony may also have a new pair of controllers to go alongside it.

Expect more information about Sony's next-generation PlayStation VR plans in the months to come.

MORE: Is PSVR Still Worth It?

Source: 91 Mobiles