Sony has patented a new system that could finally solve the problem of pausing while playing multiplayer games. Every year, Sony files new PlayStation patents that improve gameplay as well as players' experience with the platform. These patents also give us an idea of what the company might bring with future consoles and updates.
Sony began 2026 by obtaining various patents for the PlayStation, each offering unique features. This includes a Sony patent for a PlayStation controller that completely eliminates traditional physical input and replaces it with a touchscreen and additional sensors that can detect finger positions, swipes, and other inputs. In addition, Sony has patented a system that leverages LLM-based AI technology to generate podcasts centered around news and updates enjoyed by game players. However, the company has patented another system that could completely solve the problem of pausing while playing multiplayer games.
Sony developing PlayStation controller with unique features
A recent patent publication has revealed the development of an unexpected PlayStation controller, giving fans an insight into Sony's research.
Sony's new patent could cause soft pauses in multiplayer games
Sony has secured a new patent (discovered by Respawn Index) that does something like “soft pause.” What this means is that when the game is paused, the system will continue to run the game at a lower intensity. The game doesn't freeze in the usual way where everything freezes. The benefit of this Sony feature is that players can lower the in-game difficulty, reduce noise, and make other gameplay changes to make things easier while taking a break. There are a variety of ways for players to activate the soft pause feature, including pressing a specific button.
The Sony patent also mentions an AI version of the soft pause feature. In theory, the way this works is that when the payer receives a notification, the system detects this and automatically pauses the game. This allows players to deal with notifications instead of distracting from the game. As of now, there is still no confirmed release date or timeline for when Sony will implement this PlayStation patent on its console. However, we could see it launch alongside the PlayStation 6, which is expected to be Sony's next major hardware release.
Over the past few years, multiplayer gaming has reached new heights with numerous live service games allowing players to play with others from around the world. However, one issue that affects these games is the fact that you cannot pause while playing. For example, if a player decides to pause play during a round. fortniteIt will most likely be removed immediately. Unlike single player games, there is no way to stop progress and return to the game where you left off. Players have been hoping for a fix or feature for this issue for a long time, and it looks like Sony has heard their requests.
Drag weapons to fill the grid
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Drag weapons to fill the grid
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Once Sony's patent is released, it means players will no longer have to quit matches or be kicked out of online play if they decide to take a break. This also won't ruin the flow of the match in shooting games like: marathonMissing a player can completely ruin the gameplay for the rest of the team. However, patents like these are always subject to change, and there's a chance Sony may abandon the system, so players should keep their expectations in check. Regardless, it's still good to see that PlayStation is exploring new ways to improve the player experience.
Source: Resurrection Index
