Sony Patents System Allowing Viewers to Control Games During Streams

Sony has patented a technology that allows viewers to mark objects on a streamer’s screen, send vibrational reactions, and even influence gameplay.

The “Adaptive screen share pointer and reactions during gameplay” patent outlines a system featuring a cursor that viewers can see on the player’s screen. With it, viewers can point out a boss’s weak spot or hint at where to shoot, for example. The system also includes stickers and reactions that trigger vibrations in the streamer’s controller, VR headset, or phone.

Viewers might be permitted to perform special actions, such as activating levers or discovering hidden items. Developers will be able to configure these capabilities using an SDK.

To manage interactions, a queue is planned where only one viewer can control the cursor at a time, with control privileges transferred through an activity point system. Sony is also considering virtual trophies for streamers and rewards for viewers.

At the same time, the existence of a patent does not guarantee that the technology will appear on the PS5 or future consoles. Sony has not yet announced any plans for its implementation.