A new patent has been filed by Sony Interactive Entertainment that describes a PlayStation controller that is able to accept payments from credit cards and phones using contactless.
The patent was filed in March 2025 and titled ‘Video Game Controller-Driven Information Transfer,’ but has only had its details made public recently. As per the description, the player when prompted is able to bring their phone or payment card close to the controller, after which the device will receive payment details and send them to the console.
This, the patent adds, allows the system to be used to purchase games, in-game credit, and add-ons, and mentions a scenario where a user could use quick payment to buy a full game after trying out a demo. In addition, the patent states that the console may also be used with physical gift cards at the store.
Sony files patents frequently so keep in mind that this device may not materialise. Recently, the console maker filed a patent for a PlayStation modular controller with a touchscreen interface, and earlier revealed details on a possible device that features buttons that become harder or softer in reaction to gameplay.
[Source – Sony Patent via VGC]