Apple is reportedly collaborating with Sony to bring PlayStation VR2 controller support to the Vision Pro, according to Mark Gurman in his latest “Power On,” newsletter. This development aims to address one of the Vision Pro’s most glaring shortcomings: its lack of dedicated VR controllers. While the device currently supports Xbox and PlayStation controllers for Apple Arcade games, it hasn’t offered the six degrees of freedom (6DOF) precision required for immersive VR gaming.

Gurman revealed that Apple approached Sony earlier this year to initiate this partnership, and the collaboration has been in the works for several months. Sony has reportedly been working to adapt its VR2 controllers for the Vision Pro, but challenges remain, such as the need to sell the controllers as standalone accessories—a departure from their current bundling with the PlayStation VR2 headset. Apple and Sony initially planned to announce the collaboration weeks ago but have delayed the rollout to refine the integration. Despite the setbacks, the feature is expected to launch, barring any abrupt cancellations.

This move comes amid sluggish Vision Pro sales, with fewer than 500,000 units sold since its February debut. The headset’s reliance on hand and eye tracking—though innovative—has not resonated with users as Apple had hoped. Incorporating VR controllers could attract developers to create or port VR games to the platform, addressing the lack of compelling native visionOS games. Notably, Apple has reportedly asked third-party developers if they would adopt Sony’s controllers in their games, signaling its intent to foster a more robust gaming ecosystem for the Vision Pro.

Beyond gaming, the VR2 controllers could enhance productivity by offering precise input for apps like Final Cut Pro and Adobe Photoshop. Users could navigate visionOS with thumbsticks and directional pads while using trigger buttons for actions traditionally performed with pinch gestures. This expanded functionality would complement existing input methods, making the Vision Pro more versatile for a broader range of applications.

Despite its struggles, Apple remains committed to the Vision Pro. The company has also explored other input solutions, including prototyping a wand-like device akin to the Apple Pencil for precise controls. However, the decision to pursue support for Sony’s VR2 controllers suggests Apple recognizes the immediate value of leveraging established VR hardware to improve its platform.

(via Bloomberg)

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