PS4 Firmware Update Dims Lightbar

Shuhei Yoshida has told Polygon that Sony are working on a firmware update for PlayStation 4 consoles that will enable users to dim the lightbar on DualShock 4 controllers.

It will not be possible to turn it off completely, but dimming it substantially will be possible. the reasoning given by Yoshida is understandable enough, the lightbar is how you tell that the controller is turned on, and the playstation eye tracks it in some games. It also glows different colours depending on which number controller it is.

He also commented on the supposed enhanced power drain caused by the LED lights in the lightbar saying:

The LED [power usage] is much lower than people think," he said. "We know the DualShock 4 lasts less than the DualShock 3, but that's because there is much more in the DualShock 4, like the touchpad.