Sony reveals new DualSense controller for the PlayStation 5, has a built-in mic and adaptive triggers

So long, DualShock. Sony has taken the wraps off its PlayStation 5 controller and it won’t be clinging onto the branding that has adorned controllers through the last several consoles. Instead, the latest peripheral is called the DualSense, and Sony has at last revealed what it actually looks like beyond patent applications.

The new controller has some big changes on the inside, too: the previously announced haptic feedback (replacing the old rumble technology in previous controllers) and the new “adaptive triggers” that can adjust the resistance of the triggers for different gameplay effects. There’s also an integrated microphone, a first for Sony’s controllers, along with a (long-overdue) USB-C port. And of course, there’s the new two-tone color scheme (similar in style to the PSVR) and an overhauled design that gives a more rounded shape to the grips and face buttons.

The DualSense has a built-in microphone array, so you can chat with your friends without needing a headset. The DualShock share button is no more, with a Create button taking its place. Sony will spell out exactly what you’ll be able to do with that in the coming months. A closer look at the rear, meanwhile, suggests that the DualSense has a USB-C charging port.

Some of the buttons on the DualSense are also getting some light tweaks compared to the old DualShock 4 — the PlayStation button, for example, is now cut out in the actual shape of the PS logo, while the triggers have received a more angled design than past Sony controllers.

Other features from the DualShock 4 will still remain on the DualSense, like the center-mounted touchpad and the light bar (although the bar has been moved from the top / back of the controller to the left and right sides of the touchpad). Sony is also sticking with its symmetrical controller layout, with the D-pad and face buttons on the top half of the controller and the matching analog sticks on the bottom.

Further details about the DualSense — like how much additional controllers will cost, or if Sony will be offering more color options — will presumably be announced close to the PlayStation 5’s fall launch. For reference, the DualShock 4 cost $59.99 when it was first released.

The PS5 is still on track for a holiday 2020 release date, so it’ll only be six months or so before we find out how true that statement is, as well as whether the DualSense is as comfy as it appears. However, we’ve still no idea what the console itself looks like. Fingers crossed there’ll be more details on that front soon.

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