PS5 DualSense controller could get this huge upgrade

PS5 DualSense controller
(Image credit: Sony)

Sony's PS5 could have the option of wireless charging for its DualSense controller, according to an updated patent.

The application for "Wireless charging adapter with game control keys for computer game controller" was spotted by Inverse (via ScreenRant) and is, in essence, an updated version of a similar patent for the DualShock 4 controller seen earlier this year. It's also an enhanced version of the already existing Back Button Attachment that was released at the end of 2019.

The illustrations show an attachment for the controller that adds two extra buttons on the bottom center of the controller's back, similar in position to where you'd find paddles on certain third-party controllers and accessories. Between them, the casing contains wireless charging coils, allowing for the controller to draw power from a wireless charging pad rather than a cabled connection.

PS5 DualSense controller patent

(Image credit: USPTO)

In one of the illustrations, the controllers are shown resting on top of a PlayStation console while charging. This will most likely be a charging mat accessory that can be placed on top of the console. But it's not impossible that Sony could build charging coils into the PS5 for easy controller recharging.

PS5 DualSense controller patent

(Image credit: USPTO)

Wireless charging is generally a premium feature found on smartphones. The cost of implementing this is likely why Sony's only considering it as a separate accessory, rather than adding it by default to its controllers which would make them a lot more expensive for everyone. With the PS5 rumored to cost around $500, the console itself is going to be pretty expensive in comparison to the PS4, which had a launch price of $399. 

PS5 DualSense controller patent

(Image credit: USPTO)

We may see more of the DualSense controller and PS5 at the June 4 PS5 event. However, Sony has said this showcase will be focused on games.

We're expecting to hear more about the console's gaming power, including its custom SSD, ray-tracing enabled graphics and 3D audio, as well as more about what exclusive games it will have available at launch. However, the Xbox Series X also has frequent announcements planned for this summer, so there will be plenty of pressure for Sony to deliver an impressive showcase to keep Microsoft's next-generation console at bay. 

Richard Priday
Assistant Phones Editor

Richard is based in London, covering news, reviews and how-tos for phones, tablets, gaming, and whatever else people need advice on. Following on from his MA in Magazine Journalism at the University of Sheffield, he's also written for WIRED U.K., The Register and Creative Bloq. When not at work, he's likely thinking about how to brew the perfect cup of specialty coffee.

Latest in Playstation
The Last of Us Part I screenshot with a Tom's Guide deal tag
PlayStation launches new sale with big discounts on essential PS5 games — here’s my 17 favorite deals from $2
PS VR2 headset with PS VR2 Sense controllers
PlayStation VR2 getting a $200 price drop in March — is it worth buying now?
The PlayStation logo on a PS5 Pro
Ex-Sony executive predicts the PS6 will arrive in 2028 — what you need to know
Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut screenshot with a Tom's Guide deal tag
PlayStation launches new sale with essential PS5 game deals from $2 — here’s my 15 top picks
Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty
PlayStation sale slices best PS5 games by up to 80% — here’s 17 deals from $5 I’d buy now
A screenshot from Spider-Man 2 with a Tom's Guide deal tag
Best Presidents' Day PS5 sales — here's 19 deals on PS5 games I'm adding to my cart right now
Latest in News
Prime Gaming's selection of free games for March 2025
Amazon Prime is giving away these 20 games in March — get Fallout, Saints Row 3, and more free games now
Hugh Grant as Mr. Reed in "Heretic"
Max top 10 movies — here’s the 3 worth watching right now
NYT Strands on a cellphone
NYT Strands today — hints, spangram and answers for game #371 (Sunday, March 9 2025)
Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo Switch 2 price rumors and predictions — everything we've heard so far
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge back
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge latest leak hints at good news for pricing
Apple Intelligence logo on iPhone
Apple confirms Siri 2.0 is delayed — 'it’s going to take us longer than we thought'