Apple is reportedly working with Sony on a handheld controller for Apple’s mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro. Specifically, according to a media report, it is about making PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers compatible with spatial computers. Apple hopes that such control tools will provide new inspiration for developers to make it attractive to bring games to the VisionOS platform. But control of production apps like Final Cut Pro video editing, which isn’t yet available for Vision Pro, could also benefit from it.
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Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman reports Based on unnamed sources from Apple. Accordingly, the iPhone maker contacted Sony at the beginning of the year. Apple is working hard to support third-party hand controllers in VisionOS, Gurman writes. Apple has already asked third-party developers if they will also support the controllers in their games. The planned market launch was initially postponed a few weeks ago, the US financial news agency reports.
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If the rumors prove true, Apple will move closer to its competitors in terms of operating concept. When the Vision Pro was introduced in June 2023, Apple initially gave the impression that control with eyes and hands was considered sufficient. The lack of controllers, such as those used by Meta, promised a clean design and less ballast when transporting the device. But at least for productive purposes, Apple has now started using hardware keyboards – the Hand Controller would be another step in this direction.
Sony’s Sense controllers feature a six-axis motion sensor system, which can track position via IR LEDs and a capacitive sensor to detect touch at the fingertips. Like the DualSense wireless controllers, they have an adaptive button with haptic feedback.
Controller support does not guarantee success
Apple’s planned support should also be extended to the Vision Pro operating system. Controllers can partially replace both eye and gesture controls.
However, this is not the first time that Apple is hoping to achieve new ideas with the help of controllers. Support for the Apple TV was also seen as paving the way for significantly more game titles – but the device was unable to match the success of game consoles over the years.
(MKI)
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