Sony to launch own VR headset for PlayStation 4 - Report

The next chapter in Sony's next-gen technology strategy might come in the form of a custom virtual reality headset for the PlayStation 4, reports have claimed.

Sony's virtual reality plans for the PlayStation 4, reported by both Eurogamer and CVG, are said to involve hardware technology similar to the Oculus Rift headset, which has been a source of intense industry interest since its barnstorming Kickstarter success in August 2012. A consumer version of the Oculus Rift has yet to be dated.

A VR version of Evolution Studios' PS4 launch racer Driveclub is said to be in an internal prototype stage, with players able to experience a VR cockpit. Based in Liverpool, England, Evolution Studios is also close to Sony's Worldwide Studios Stereoscopic 3D team.

CVG says that the Sony VR headset will be unveiled at Tokyo Game Show later this month, while Eurogamer says Sony will unveil the product in 2014, after the release of the PlayStation 4. Both sites report that the company originally planned to show the headset at Gamescom 2013 last week, but those plans were scrapped at the last minute.

Tokyo Games Show 2013 will run from September 19 through September 22.

As a company, Sony has pre-existing experience with VR. Sony currently sells the HMZ-T2 in Europe and Canada for £999, with the headset designed for use with 3D games and movies. The HMZ-T2 features two 720p OLED screens and incorporates a 5.1 surround sound system.

Sony's gaming VR headset will be sold separately from the PlayStation 4 hardware, CVG adds.

The PlayStation 4 will launch on November 15 in North America for $399, and on November 29 in Europe for €399/£349.

A Sony representative declined to comment.