The PS4 controller will get customizable buttons with this new add-on

(Image credit: Sony)

Sony has announced it is releasing a back button attachment for its DualShock 4 controller that will allow players to add two customizable buttons to the PS4 gamepad. 

The DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment is aimed at "gamers of all skill levels who enjoy playing competitively". The customizable device can be attached to the back of your DualShock 4 controller and adds two programmable back buttons that can be mapped to to 16 different actions, such as triangle, R1, R2, and so on.

Check out Sony's announcement trailer below:

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Pro gaming

(Image credit: Sony)

The Back Button Attachment (that's its official name) slots into the bottom of your DualShock 4 and features an integrated OLED display to allow you to programme the customizable buttons easily. In addition, there will be a button which allows you to quickly remap these back buttons. 

You'll be able to save up to three different button profiles on the device and there is also a headset pass-through, so you can still connect your headset to the controller. 

Sony has stated that the Back Button Attachment will work with "all of your favorite PlayStation 4 and PlayStation VR titles", which doesn't actually specify if it'll work with all titles or not. It could be just a select few 'favorites'. 

While Sony has endorsed various third party 'pro' gaming controllers, this is the first time the company has released something close to a customizable pro controller of its own. Creating an attachment for the current DualShock 4 means that players don't need to shell out for a new, more premium controller. 

While the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is a fantastic controller, and boasts plenty of customization options, its over $100 price tag means it's not the best fit for all players.

The Back Button Attachment launches in US and Canada on January 23, 2020, for $29.99 USD. Pricing for the UK and Australia has not been announced and it's currently unconfirmed when the attachment will launch in these regions.

Vic Hood
Associate Editor, TechRadar Gaming

Vic is TechRadar Gaming's Associate Editor. An award-winning games journalist, Vic brings experience from IGN, Eurogamer and more to the TechRadar table. You may have even heard her on the radio or speaking on a panel. Not only is Vic passionate about games, but she's also an avid mental health advocate who has appeared on both panels and podcasts to discuss mental health awareness. Make sure to follow her on Twitter for more.