Automated AI-Driven Controls via Camera-Monitored Fingers

Sony's New Patent Aims to Reduce Gaming Latency with AI and Sensors

A recently filed Sony patent reveals a potential solution to reduce input latency in future gaming hardware. The patent, WO2025010132, titled "TIMED INPUT/ACTION RELEASE," leverages AI and additional sensors to predict user inputs, thereby minimizing delays between command input and execution.

Sony's PlayStation 5 Pro already features the PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) upscaler. However, newer technologies like frame generation often introduce latency, impacting responsiveness. Competitors AMD and Nvidia have addressed this with Radeon Anti-Lag and Nvidia Reflex, respectively, and Sony's patent suggests a similar approach.

The patent describes a system using a machine-learning AI model to anticipate user inputs. This prediction is aided by an external sensor, potentially a camera observing the controller, to detect the player's next move. The patent specifically mentions using "camera input as an input to a machine learning (ML) model." Alternatively, the sensor could be integrated directly into the controller's buttons, possibly utilizing analog inputs.

While the patent's specifics may not directly translate to the PlayStation 6, it demonstrates Sony's commitment to mitigating latency issues associated with advanced rendering techniques like FSR 3 and DLSS 3. These technologies, while enhancing visuals, can increase latency.

The benefits of this technology would be particularly noticeable in fast-paced games requiring both high frame rates and low latency, such as twitch shooters. However, the actual implementation of this patent in future hardware remains uncertain.