Leaked images of prototype PlayStation 4 controller appear online

15 Feb 2013

We know for sure that Sony Computer Entertainment is preparing for a big announcement on 20 February, and the smart money is on a PlayStation 4 reveal. As the gaming community excitedly waits, an image now circulating the web reveals a thing or two about the next-generation console’s controller.

First appearing on Destructoid, the site’s sources have apparently confirmed that the image is of an early prototype of the PlayStation 4 controller.

The device is not a far cry from the PS3 controller’s design but with many of the rumoured features for the new device added, such as a touchscreen plonked in between the left and right grips. There’s also an built-in speaker and a light bar across the top that looks reminiscent of the top of the PlayStation Move controller. The PS4 is rumoured to come with an built-in camera, so perhaps this is a sensor for motion control.

The prototype also features a new design for the analogue sticks and appears quite bulky. How close is this to the design of the finished product? We’ll just have to wait until later this month to find out.

Elaine Burke is the host of For Tech’s Sake, a co-production from Silicon Republic and The HeadStuff Podcast Network. She was previously the editor of Silicon Republic.

editorial@siliconrepublic.com