Sony has revealed an updated version of the PlayStation VR headset, offering HDR passthrough support, integrated headphones, and a slightly tweaked design.
Not exactly a second-generation version of its virtual reality (VR) headset which made its debut last year, the new PS VR is more of a smartphone-esque refresh, likely designed to make the headset as appealing as possible with Xmas and the holiday season approaching.
Models of the PS VR bearing the CUH-ZVR2 number will have the updated features and design, with Sony planing on making the packaging different so that people can tell it apart from its predecessor. This is important as the external processor unit has been updated to support HDR (high dynamic range) content via a passthrough connection, meaning HDR can still be enjoyed with the new PS VR even if the TV it’s being used with doesn’t support HDR.
The cables to the processor unit are different as well, meaning users of the older PS VR headsets can’t simply swap out the unit for the HDR compatible one.
Adding integrated headphones for the PS VR will replace the need to plug in third-party headphones via a 3,5mm jack as was the case with the older PS VR, which has the model number CUH-ZVR1. It’s hardly a massive change but should help make the new PS VR more user friendly. The connection cabling for the headphones has also been made slimmer in an effort to reduce the PS VR’s overall profile.
Other than these few tweaks, the PS VR is pretty much the same as it’s always been, and Sony will keep the pricing the same as well, which sits around the £300 mark depending on different retailers. As such, we can expect to see the older model phased out with Sony concentrating on its more capable successor; people expecting to see a true second-generation PS VR headset may need to wait a little longer though.
Sony hasn’t revealed when the new headset will be released, but we can expect it will make its debut before the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.
Related: Best PlayStation VR games
Are you a fan of VR gaming? Let us know on Twitter or Facebook.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
