Sony will allow users of its forthcoming PlayStation 4 to use iPhones, iPads or Android-based smartphones and tablets as a second screen for the games console.

Once they’ve downloaded the PlayStation App, gamers will be able to remotely purchase games for the PS4 which are then downloaded directly to the console.

They will also be able to remotely watch other people playing games and use the device as a second screen, for example to view maps when playing adventure games.