On July 6, 2023, Sony submitted a fresh patent under the designation WO2025010132, which was made public on January 9, 2025. This patent outlines a system powered by AI that aims to foresee player inputs by merging data from cameras and controllers to monitor hand movements and actions. The positioning of the camera is adaptable, with possibilities for it to be built into controllers, TVs, VR headsets, or various other devices.
Real-Time Processing
The AI analyzes the partial data as it comes in, executing predicted actions while taking into account context-specific details from game engines, like character locations or movements of enemies. A major benefit of this innovation is its ability to greatly lessen latency, which allows for more accurate and smooth inputs, especially in fast-moving games. Moreover, it could assist in avoiding accidental inputs that may occur from repeatedly pressing a button.
Anticipated Actions
For example, if a player slightly raises their thumb, the AI might predict the move and cause the character to jump over an obstacle before the button is entirely pressed. In a similar vein, when a weapon is aimed, the AI could refrain from firing if there isn’t a target nearby. However, mistakes can happen, and the technology might sometimes misread inputs, which could result in unintended actions.
Mixed Reactions Online
Views on platforms like Reddit are mixed. Numerous users consider Sony’s new tech as a hopeful fix for latency problems and a way to promote new gameplay mechanics. Nevertheless, some skeptics mention that similar technologies are already in use, raising doubts about whether this patent marks a true breakthrough or is just a refined version of what exists.
For instance, rollback netcode, common in contemporary fighting games like Street Fighter V and Mortal Kombat 11, also predicts player inputs to lessen delays in online play. When predictions are right, the game runs smoothly; if they’re off, the actions are corrected later. While Sony’s idea is not entirely unprecedented, it still offers potential for improving gaming experiences by making inputs more accurate and gameplay more enjoyable.
Future Implementation
The technology is anticipated to appear in games made by Sony’s own studios. However, it is still unclear whether it will be used on the PlayStation 5 or saved for the next-generation PlayStation 6. The possible availability of this technology for third-party games is also still uncertain at this point.
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