re: PS4 Controller Prototype

From what I've heard the touch screen in the middle can be used in anyway designers would like to utilize it. But Sony is primarily using it as a means to communicate with your friends on the PS3 network. Instead of having to navigate the X-bar and respond to messages/add friends/accept invites, etc., you can quickly tap a response on there when a message is received. It makes a chime sound when these come in through the speaker on there. It can also be used for communication during a voice chat.