That`s not applicable anymore since Microsoft now slices off half the market Sony used to have.

Where I think SCE is going with the PS4 controller, and I add the disclaimer that I have in no way shape or form any sort of insider information to confirm this, is to replicate the user input scheme established with the PS Vita. Given the popularity (or non-popularity more accurately) of the device, this does seem like an odd call, but what it will still bring to the console is an easy way to navigate through screens, menus, etc. the same way one does on their touch screen enabled smartphones/tablets.
While I think the current rumors only have the back touch panel being mentioned, I would actually like an OLED touch screen panel on the front for data input, specifically keyboard input so I never have to plug a USB keyboard into a console again. And of course it could be used for all sorts of in game uses beyond text input. The big issue is cost naturally. I don't see myself buying a lot of extra $80 controllers if SCE went that route and the inevitable replacements would bite a bit more in the wallet.
At any rate, it kind of makes me wish SCE had found a practical way to put two sets of shoulder buttons on the Vita and clickable analog sticks to fully replicate the button mapping of the DS3.

Going back to the OP argument: I don't see the Wii U "winning" any sales figures over the competition this time around for a host of reasons that deserve their own thread.

More than just a touchpad on the controller. Heavy sharing features such as video capture and social features have been rumored. All that on top of the powerful specs and amazing 3rd party support.

You say Wii U will win sales wise? Look how its selling now.....Nintendo consoles peak early, so the way its selling now IS NOT a good sign. It won't have the 3rd party support to have a long life. It'll rely mostly on 1st party Nintendo games and that can only take it so far.

BTW, I'll add that if something isn't broken, don't fix it.
Most people still love traditional controllers and the upcoming PS4 control seems to be that with added functionality that won't get in the way. I can't say the same for the Wii U Gamepad which is either you love it or hate it.

By that logic we should never have progressed passed the NES in graphics or control. That wasn't broken.

Graphical improvements are necessary as technology progresses. Also graphics can't be considered "broken".

So are interface improvements.

I don't understand what you're trying to say...Are you taking a jab at the PS3's XMB because if you are then I'm sure you could do better. Weaksauce bro.

No, I'm saying controllers need to improve just like graphics.

I can picture the new sony controler looking like the vita but haveing the shape of the dual shock 3