The Wii U controller contains the same motion tracking hardware as a Nintendo Wiimote, which means the system can track its relative position at all times, and update the controller screen depending on its orientation.

FORBES: Hands On With The Nintendo Wii U

News that a forthcoming software update will allow the Vita to act as a PS3 controller may help counter the appeal of Nintendo's Wii U touchscreen Gamepad controller and Microsoft's Smartglass service, which pairs the Xbox with a tablet.

BBC: Sony acts to boost PlayStation Vita at Gamescom