Given the massive success of the Wii, there are constantly swirling rumors that both Microsoft and Sony are working on their own Wii remote killer. The latest rumor stems from a patent application filed by Sony, which shows some sort of break apart motion controller.

From the images provided, it looks like the controller consists of two Wii remote-like devices that can be combined in order to create a more traditional gamepad. It seems a tad complicated though, as putting the whole thing together requires three different faceplates. The remotes also look a bit strange, with some sort of small sphere on the top of them. It also looks like the controller would communicate with the PlayStation Eye camera in some way.

A patent application is far from a confirmation that this controller could actually be manufactured, and Sony is well known for creating strange controllers that never actually see the light of day. The waning support for SIXAXIS also makes the possibility seem even more remote. File this one under rumor for now.