In the run-up to the PlayStation 5's launch, numerous patents were discovered and thrown into the limelight, sparking rumors regarding the console's potential features. These ranged from some sort of compatibility with Sony's old handheld consoles, the PlayStation Portable and PlayStation Vita, to emulation technology that would make it possible to play games from the PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, and original PlayStation.

And even with the PlayStation 5 now out and sitting in many homes across the world, another patent has recently been discovered, which may be hinting at a new VR headset for the console. At the moment, the original headset is compatible with the PS5, though users do need to acquire a special (free) adaptor from Sony.

This patent was first filed in 2016 and was only just granted on November 24th. The focus of this new headset is to be overall lighter and comfier to wear, making it more suitable for long gaming sessions.

The images included in the patent show two different models for the theoretical headset. One resembles a headband, while the other looks just like a pair of glasses, both of which are far cries from the current headset's design. However, this doesn't mean that these designs are final and they could theoretically change.

Though the current headset isn't particularly heavy (weighing approximately 600g), wearing it incorrectly can cause discomfort and result in incorrect tracking data. The purpose of this new headset, then, is to minimize both problems.

To do this, the new headset would have more sensors built into it, which would improve detection, and haptic feedback would make it possible to provide the user with alerts if the headset isn't being worn properly (either via on-screen or with LED lights) and tips about how to wear it comfortably.

Haptic feedback is already a major feature of the PS5, with it being one of the key selling points of the DualSense controller. If it were to be incorporated into a VR headset, it could feasibly allow for an even more immersive gaming experience.

As always, patents can't be considered official confirmations and even if Sony is working on it, it certainly won't be releasing anytime soon, especially since it's very difficult for some to get their hands on the PS5 console itself. At the moment, it seems like the only way to get one is from a scalper, with one scalper group in the UK claiming it managed to acquire roughly 3500 PS5s on launch day.

In the meantime, those who did manage to get their PS5 or still own a PlayStation 4 can currently take advantage of Sony's Black Friday offers this week, with a frankly massive list of games now available at discounts of up to 70%.

The PlayStation 5 is out now.

Source: LetsGoDigital