Apple collaborates with Sony to bring PlayStation VR2 controller support to Vision Pro

Apple is reportedly working with Sony to introduce PlayStation VR2 controller support for its Vision Pro headset. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple has approached third-party developers to integrate PlayStation VR2 controllers into their games, aiming to enhance the gaming experience on the Vision Pro.

Highlights:

Apple's collaboration with Sony aims to enhance gaming on Vision Pro.

Sony was approached by Apple earlier this year to begin this initiative.

PlayStation VR2 controllers may soon be available through Apple's stores.

Apple's Vision Pro Enhancements: Unveiled at WWDC last year, the Apple Vision Pro is set to receive significant upgrades with the addition of third-party hand controller support in its visionOS software. This collaboration with Sony is expected to allow the use of PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers with the Vision Pro. These controllers could also improve productivity tasks and media editing within visionOS.

Development and Delays: Mark Gurman's latest Power On newsletter reveals that the integration of Sony's VR2 controllers into Vision Pro has been in the works for several months. Although Apple and Sony intended to announce this support weeks ago, the rollout was postponed. The PlayStation VR2 controllers will offer precise control in apps like Final Cut Pro and Adobe Photoshop, beyond their primary use in VR gaming.

Current and Future Controller Support: Currently, Vision Pro supports PlayStation 5 and Xbox controllers, but they lack the six degrees of freedom (6DOF) needed for precise VR gaming controls. The new VR2 controllers will address this limitation. Additionally, Apple is prototyping a "wand" for Vision Pro, similar to the Apple Pencil, for more precise control.

Availability and Pricing: The Vision Pro, Apple’s first mixed-reality headset, supports AR and VR technologies and operates on the visionOS system. It features Apple's M2 processor and an R1 chip, and is available in various storage configurations starting at $3,499 (approximately Rs. 2,90,000). The headset is currently sold in select regions, including the US, China, Europe, and Japan.

A more affordable version of the Vision headset is rumored to launch early next year, with a price tag of around $2,000 (approximately Rs. 1,68,000). This version is expected to run on a less powerful processor and be constructed from cheaper materials.