Apple’s Curveball: PS VR2 Sense Controllers Coming to the Apple Store (for $250!)

Hold on to your wallets, folks! Apple, fresh off the heels of announcing its second-generation Vision Pro headset, has thrown a curveball that’s got the tech world buzzing. You know those slick, immersive PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers? Well, get ready to snag them… from Apple. But there’s a catch (of course there is): they’ll set you back a cool $250.

Yes, you read that right. The very controllers previously bundled exclusively with Sony’s $400 PS VR2 headset are now making their way to the Apple Store. Is this a match made in virtual reality heaven, or just another example of Apple’s premium pricing strategy? Let’s dive in.

Why Are PS VR2 Controllers Even on Apple’s Radar?

The answer lies in Apple’s visionOS 2, the operating system powering the Vision Pro. The latest update boasts official support for the PS VR2 Sense controllers. This means developers can now create experiences for the Vision Pro that leverage the advanced haptic feedback, finger tracking, and precise motion sensing capabilities of Sony’s controllers.

It’s a smart move on Apple’s part. While the Vision Pro’s hand tracking is impressive, it may not be ideal for every type of VR or AR application. Gamers, in particular, are used to the tactile feel and precision of dedicated controllers. Offering PS VR2 Sense controller support opens up a whole new world of possibilities for developers and users alike, allowing them to create and enjoy more complex and immersive experiences.

Beyond Gaming: Potential Applications

The benefits extend beyond gaming. Imagine using the PS VR2 Sense controllers for intricate 3D modeling, precise virtual sculpting, or even highly accurate surgical simulations. The controllers’ haptic feedback could provide crucial sensory information in these applications, making them far more realistic and effective. Apple’s move could pave the way for professionals and creatives to leverage VR and AR in ways previously unimagined.

The $250 Question: Is It Worth It?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. $250 for a pair of controllers is nothing to sneeze at. Especially when you consider that the entire PS VR2 headset, including the controllers, previously retailed for around $400 (before Sony’s recent price cuts). So, is it a worthwhile investment?

The answer depends entirely on your use case. If you’re a Vision Pro owner eager to experience the full potential of VR gaming or professional applications, and you’re willing to invest in top-of-the-line peripherals, then the PS VR2 Sense controllers might be a good fit. The advanced features and precise tracking could significantly enhance your experience.

However, if you’re a casual user or are primarily interested in simpler AR experiences, the Vision Pro’s built-in hand tracking might suffice. Paying $250 for controllers you might not fully utilize could be a hard pill to swallow, especially considering the already hefty $3,499 price tag of the Vision Pro itself.

A Pricey Ecosystem

It’s also worth noting that the cost of entry into the Vision Pro ecosystem is already incredibly high. Between the headset itself, compatible apps, and now the optional PS VR2 Sense controllers, building out a complete VR/AR setup can quickly become a very expensive endeavor. Apple clearly targets a specific, high-end market with these premium products and accessories.

What Does This Mean for the Future of VR/AR?

Apple’s decision to sell the PS VR2 Sense controllers separately signals a growing convergence between different VR and AR ecosystems. It suggests that Apple is open to embracing third-party hardware to enhance the Vision Pro’s capabilities and broaden its appeal. This could lead to more collaboration between companies and a more diverse range of accessories and peripherals for VR and AR devices.

The move also highlights the importance of controllers in certain VR/AR experiences. While hand tracking has made significant strides, dedicated controllers still offer a level of precision and tactile feedback that is hard to replicate. As VR/AR technology continues to evolve, we’ll likely see a mix of input methods emerge, with hand tracking and controllers complementing each other to create the most immersive and intuitive experiences.

Whether Apple’s $250 PS VR2 Sense controller gamble pays off remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the VR/AR landscape is constantly evolving, and Apple is determined to be at the forefront, even if it means selling PlayStation controllers at a premium.