Sony is one of the biggest names in gaming and entertainment, frequently filing patents for potential video game software. Based on their latest records, it seems that Sony is making efforts to make gaming more accessible to a wider range of players. Recently, a newly published patent reveals that Sony is developing integrated speedrun timer software, aiming to make speedrunning easier.
According to the patent published on May 1, 2024, Sony is working on an integrated speedrun timer that helps users easily track their playthroughs. The patent mentions that this timer could be implemented on an unspecified platform and will be available as a “pre-installed import,” suggesting it could appear on Sony’s current or future platforms. This timer could provide smoother tracking for speedrunners and has the potential to be used in larger competitions. However, it’s important to note that many technologies patented by Sony never fully develop, so there’s no guarantee that this speedrun timer will be released.
The software includes a set of default rules and customizable speedrun variables, based on the parameters of a specific playthrough. Once activated, the software will automatically monitor and end the run if the player violates a rule or fails to meet a parameter. The timer will also accurately determine when all milestones have been completed and record the exact completion time. This provides players with a fully automated timing and criteria-tracking system that can improve speedrunning methods and tournaments.
Whether this patented speedrun timer or any other Sony technologies will be fully developed and publicly released remains to be seen. Major companies like Sony frequently file patents for video game developments, but to know which technologies will actually be released, we must wait for official announcements from Sony and others.