Newsbrief: A new update to the Steam client includes a significant change to the way the program supports PlayStation 4 controllers. The update allows players to customize inputs for PS4 controllers using the same sort of interface used for configuring Steam Controllers.
This expanded support means that players will now be able to map functions to the DualShock 4’s touchpad and built-in gyroscope, as well as to traditional buttons and joysticks through Steam's Big Picture mode.
According to the patch notes detailing the update, “PS4 controllers will have access to the same sort of customization/configuration support as Steam Controllers, including native API support. PS4 Controllers using this system can map the trackpad, gyro, buttons, etc. to keyboard, mouse, or x-input outputs and can make use of action sets, touch menus, radial menus, and so forth."
Valve first announced plans to bring expanded controller support to Steam back at Steam Dev Days in October. Due to its similarities to the Steam Controller, the DualShock 4 was the first gamepad to receive new configurability options, but the company has plans to update support for other controllers in the future.