Sony has patented a new payment system that could allow PlayStation users to tap a phone or payment card on their controller to make purchases.

The patent describes a controller that could communicate with nearby devices and transfer payment information to a connected PlayStation console.

Under the proposed system, users could receive a payment request on the console and then tap a compatible phone, bank card or gift card against the controller.

The technology could use NFC and Bluetooth to establish a connection between the controller and the payment device. The patent also mentions digital wallets and bank accounts as possible payment options.

The system could potentially be used for buying games, in-game items and other digital content. Sony also describes other possible uses, including transferring account information and sharing content between a PlayStation console and a mobile device.

However, the patent does not mean the feature is coming to PlayStation consoles. Sony has not announced plans to introduce tap-to-pay functionality to the PS5 or its controllers.

The existing DualSense controller would also need hardware changes if Sony decides to implement the proposed payment system.