Sony patent could turn PlayStation controllers into tap-to-pay credit card terminals — NFC and Bluetooth also support phones and gift cards for instant purchases

What happened

The patent was first filed way back in March 2025, but it was only made public on September 17 this year before being spotted by Dexerto . The console would handle payment once a card or phone has been presented to a controller, although it's unclear if gamers would need to sign in to their PlayStation account for the purchase to be completed.

A new patent application details the potential for a future PlayStation controller to accept payments via credit cards and gift cards. The patent, titled “Video Game Controller-Driven Information Transfer,” details a system that would allow a PlayStation controller to accept payments whenever a gamer taps it with their credit card or smartphone.

The patent contains artwork that shows how the payment system would potentially work. Imagery used in the patent shows a recognizable PS5 console and DualSense controller.

Key facts

• The patent — includes: artwork that shows how the payment system would potentially work