In an intriguing development, tech giants Apple and Sony are joining forces to integrate PSVR2 controller support into the Vision Pro headset. This collaborative effort could transform how users interact with virtual reality, bringing a new level of control to both gaming and professional applications.
Bridging Gaming and Professional Worlds
Mark Gurman of Bloomberg’s Power On newsletter revealed that Apple and Sony had planned to unveil this exciting collaboration weeks ago but delayed the announcement. The partnership will not only enhance gaming experiences on the Vision Pro but also introduce Sony’s VR controllers to Apple’s retail ecosystem, selling them separately at Apple Stores.
This strategic move is particularly significant for Vision Pro owners looking for a more immersive gaming experience. Vision Pro, with its limited range of native visionOS games, has struggled to match the gaming prowess of other VR platforms. Games like “Thrasher,” which allows players to navigate a psychedelic space by manipulating a dragon-like creature with hand movements, highlight the potential for more sophisticated and engaging VR games.
Expanding Control Beyond Gaming
But the implications of this support extend beyond gaming. Gurman notes that Apple aims to leverage the PSVR2 controllers for broader applications within its ecosystem. The controllers will be compatible with visionOS, offering users refined control over navigation and functionality in creative software applications like Final Cut Pro and Adobe Photoshop. Currently, Vision Pro users can pair standard Bluetooth controllers for basic navigation and game play, but the addition of PSVR2 controllers promises a significant upgrade in precision and ease of use.
Challenges and Community Response
Despite the potential benefits, there are challenges ahead. The Vision Pro has not yet achieved robust sales figures, and Apple’s history of securing support from game publishers has been less than stellar. However, the burgeoning interest from the VR community, evidenced by successful initiatives like the Kickstarter-funded Surreal Touch project—which aims to develop Meta Quest 3-style controllers for the Vision Pro—suggests a growing demand for enhanced VR interaction tools.
The partnership between Apple and Sony could be a turning point for the Vision Pro, providing the boost it needs to become a serious contender in the VR arena. As this collaboration unfolds, it will be fascinating to see whether these enhancements will attract a larger audience to Apple’s innovative device, potentially revolutionizing how we think about and interact with virtual reality.
