Apple and Sony are reportedly teaming up to transform virtual reality (VR) gaming. According to a recent report, the two tech giants are working on making PlayStation VR2 hand controllers compatible with Apple’s Vision Pro. This collaboration could bring exciting gaming possibilities to Apple’s AR/VR headset and improve its functionality for gamers.
A New Era for Vision Pro
Currently, the Vision Pro supports PS5 and Xbox controllers, but these aren’t designed specifically for VR. They lack advanced motion tracking features, like six degrees of freedom (6DOF), which are crucial for an immersive VR experience. By adding PlayStation VR2 controller support, Vision Pro users could enjoy a richer and more engaging gaming environment.
Sony’s VR2 controllers are known for their precision and responsiveness, as I tried them with the PlayStation VR2 headset. The controllers feel intuitive and responsive, making gaming more enjoyable. If these become compatible with Vision Pro, Apple’s position in the gaming market could be boosted.
Power On: Apple and Sony discuss partnership to bring PSVR2 hand-controller support to the Apple Vision Pro https://t.co/CDhvFwjkHu
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) December 8, 2024
The partnership is not just about gaming. Apple wants to use the PlayStation VR2 controllers to improve navigation in its operating system, visionOS. These controllers could also help in productivity apps like Final Cut Pro and Adobe Photoshop, offering better control for tasks like video editing and design.
Currently, Vision Pro users rely on basic Bluetooth controllers or gestures for navigation. Adding Sony’s controllers would make interactions smoother and more precise, making the device more versatile.
However, the timeline for this collaboration remains uncertain. Reports suggest Apple and Sony initially planned to announce this support weeks ago but delayed the rollout for unknown reasons.
This delay comes as Vision Pro struggles with sales. Since its launch in February, Apple has sold fewer than 500,000 units, which is lower than expected. By improving the gaming experience, this partnership could give the Vision Pro a much-needed boost.
My Perspective
As someone who loves gaming, I find this news exciting. One of the challenges I’ve faced with AR/VR headsets is the limited options for gaming controllers. A more immersive and intuitive gaming experience could make the Vision Pro the best choice for gamers like me.
If Apple and Sony successfully bring this collaboration to life, it could reshape how people view the Vision Pro—not just as a productivity tool but as a serious competitor in the VR gaming world.
While there’s no official announcement yet, this rumoured partnership is a good step forward for both companies. Gamers and tech lovers like me will keep an eye out for updates.
