In a surprising turn of events, Apple and Sony are reportedly collaborating to bring support for Sony’s PlayStation VR2 (PSVR2) controllers to the Apple Vision Pro headset. This development, initially slated for announcement weeks ago, could significantly enhance the gaming and navigation capabilities of Apple’s cutting-edge mixed reality device.
The Collaboration: What We Know
According to Mark Gurman’s recent Power On newsletter for Bloomberg, this partnership has been in the works for months. Here are the key points:
- Apple plans to sell Sony’s PSVR2 controllers separately, a first for these accessories.
- Sony has been actively working on implementing support for their controllers.
- Apple has reached out to third-party developers to gauge interest in utilizing Sony’s VR controllers.
Implications for Vision Pro Users
Enhanced Gaming Experience
The integration of PSVR2 controllers could be a game-changer for Vision Pro owners seeking a more robust gaming experience. Currently, the Vision Pro’s native game library is limited, with few standout titles like Thrasher showcasing the device’s unique hand-tracking capabilities.
Beyond Gaming: Productivity Applications
Interestingly, Apple’s vision extends beyond gaming. The company aims to leverage these controllers for:
- Navigation within visionOS
- Precise control in professional applications like Final Cut Pro and Adobe Photoshop
This move could potentially bridge the gap between the Vision Pro’s current input methods and the more tactile, precise control offered by dedicated VR controllers.
Current State of Controller Support
As it stands, Vision Pro users can pair standard Bluetooth controllers for basic navigation and gaming. However, this functionality is primarily limited to iPad and iPhone games with controller support, along with some iOS-compatible emulators.
Community Response and Future Prospects
The VR community has shown enthusiasm for enhanced controller options, as evidenced by crowdfunding initiatives like the Surreal Touch project on Kickstarter. This project aims to develop Meta Quest 3-style controllers for the Vision Pro, indicating a clear demand for more immersive input methods.
Challenges and Uncertainties
Despite the potential benefits, several questions remain:
- Will this partnership significantly boost game development for the Vision Pro?
- Can Apple overcome its historically challenging relationship with game publishers?
- How will the Vision Pro’s sales figures impact the success of this initiative?
Looking Ahead
While the Vision Pro represents a departure from Apple’s traditional device lineup, its success in the gaming and VR space remains to be seen. The potential integration of PSVR2 controllers could be a pivotal move, potentially attracting both developers and users to the platform.
As we await official confirmation from Apple and Sony, the tech world watches with bated breath. This collaboration could mark a new chapter in mixed reality experiences, blending Apple’s innovative hardware with Sony’s proven expertise in gaming peripherals.
