The Sony PlayStation VR may be cheaper compared to the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive VR headsets. Sony denied creating a VR system for its smartphones.
Virtual reality was one of the major highlights of the MWC 2016 which started on February 22. Several VR devices, such as the HTC Vive VR and LG 360 Gear VR, were launched at the event. HTC's VR device boasted the high-end Valve SteamVR technology, but it also came with a premium price tag, as per We Got This Covered. HTC announced that the Vive VR costs $800, more expensive than its $600-rival Oculus Rift headset.
Sony also plans to explore the VR market with the PlayStation VR. Market analyst Michael Pachter said that the Sony PlayStation VR may dominate the VR market if it will cost cheaper than its competitors. Sony may have to price its VR device at around $500 to beat the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.
The PlayStation VR is designed to work with the PS4 game console which costs around $350. Two patents previously filed by Sony suggest that the Japanese company may release 2 kinds of VR headsets. One would reportedly be compatible with Sony phones while the other headset will function like the Samsung Gear VR. However, International Business Times reported that a Sony spokesperson denied that the company is making a VR system for its smartphones.
Sony decided to skip the PlayStation VR at the MWC. Instead, it launched its new Xperia phones along with an ear headset called Xperia Ear. The smart wearable has a built-in artificial intelligence that can respond to the user's voice commands.
Facebook's Marc Zuckerberg talked about the future of virtual reality at the MWC 2016, saying that VR is the "new platform." In fact, Sony could add VR functionality to its next-gen PS5 gaming console. According to Lawyer Herald, the Sony PS5 may offer VR support and cloud-based gaming experience to immerse the player in "dynamic, interactive worlds."
Other manufacturers are planning to enter the VR field. Alcatel announced that it will release its IDOL 4S flagship phone that can also work as a VR headset. Meanwhile, Samsung unveiled its new Gear 360 camera compatible with the Gear VR and Galaxy S7.
