PlayStation 5 Camera Might Track Multiple Users & VR Headsets

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Sony Interactive Entertainment has already announced that PlayStation 5 will launch with a new high definition camera as an optional accessory. While the old PlayStation 4 camera will still be compatible, the new PlayStation 5 camera will come with several new features, most of which are yet to be revealed.

According to a recently granted patent, the PlayStation 5 camera will be able to receive input from multiple users simultaneously. The patented method describes a system that uses eye tracking and image processing to first identify all users in range, detect and isolate their individual inputs, and finally send them for processing via the next generation console .

A system determines which user of multiple users has provided input through a single input device. A mechanism captures images of one or more users. When an input is detected, images can be processed to determine which user has provided input using the input device. Images can be processed to identify each user’s head and eyes and determine the focus point for each user’s eyes. The user who has his eyes focused on the position of the input is identified as the supplier of the input.

Sony has confirmed that the PlayStation 5 camera will be equipped with two 1080p lenses for high definition capture. The accessory will make it easier for players to stream from their living room during games, especially for newcomers. Based on the aforementioned patent, the hardware will be able to do much more.

The current (older) PlayStation 4 camera has rather low accuracy when it comes to tracking the position of the player, controller or virtual reality headset. The upcoming PlayStation 5 camera will potentially enhance eye tracking for greater accuracy when tracking both PlayStation VR and Move controllers. Having two cameras will go a long way in accurately judging the feeling of depth. Hence, they could also track multiple users at the same time.

Please note that PlayStation 4 only supports one PlayStation VR headset at a time. While it may be too early to speculate, PlayStation 5 may allow for multiple PlayStation VR2 headsets at a time, all thanks to the new and improved PlayStation 5 camera.