Sony will release a revised PlayStation VR headset on 14th October in Japan and later this year worldwide. The improved model makes adjustments to the core virtual reality experience based on user feedback, although it’s important to note that its functionality and features remain identical to the model that launched last year. Think of this as a minor update, similar to what it did with the launch PlayStation 4 a few years back.
So what improvements does model number CUH-ZVR2 actually offer? Well, first and foremost its Processor Unit has been updated to enable HDR passthrough – an embarrassing oversight in the original version. The platform holder has also consolidated the cables, so now you’re dealing with a single, thinner cable as opposed to the monster wires at launch.
The biggest visible change, though, is that the headphone port has been moved to the rear of the headset itself, and it’s now possible to integrate the wiring into the unit for tidier cable management. Previously, you needed to plug your headphones into a panel incorporated into the headset’s primary cable, which was prone to tangling.
There is some bad news: if you were hoping to buy the new Processor Unit standalone to allow for HDR passthrough, it won’t be compatible with your existing PlayStation VR headset. “Because the cables of CUH-ZVR1 and CUH-ZVR2 are different, you cannot swap the Processor Units,” explains an FAQ on the PlayStation Blog.
As mentioned, there’s no release date for the new PlayStation VR model in Western territories just yet, but those in Japan will be able to purchase it from 14th October as part of a new ¥44,980 (~$398) bundle including a PlayStation Camera. The manufacturer notes that new packaging will be used in the West to differentiate the updated version from old models, so you’ll need to keep an eye out for that if you want to ensure you score the updated unit.
[source blog.us.playstation.com, via gematsu.com]
Comments 35
Sounds like a great list of improvements.
Nice little quality of life improvements.
Yeah, really good little improvements. It's a shame about the HDR passthrough oversight in the launch model, but oh well.
Well that's another way to make more money from people who already bought it lol
@Strebor_ Always the risk for early adopters.
@Strebor_ Why would anyone who bought it buy it again just for these tweaks? If you absolutely need HDR passthrough there are much cheaper ways around it.
Well I guess this helps explain the drop in price this past week at Target and Best Buy.
Nice that they simplified the cables, though it does seem a bit odd that people can't simply replace the cable, that makes no sense. Would have been nice if people who put their old PS4 in their bedroom when they bought a Pro for the living room could pick up an extra cable for their 2nd PS4 and use PSVR in any room.
Also only 1 year later is kinda quick, may hurt early PSVR2 sales on PS5.
@get2sammyb It is a big oversight. Its not as if some HDMI controllers can be updated to 2.0a. I guess Sony thought it was 'unnecessary' to put a bit more money into the processing units HDMI controllers when VR and the Headset is only 1080p and not HDR - perhaps forgetting that the Consoles were HDR and in the case of the Pro, 4k capable too.
It was obvious that PSVR would get a revision. As new technology improves and more feedback is received, Sony would revise it. I bet HDR Passthrough was one of the biggest complaints. I still think I will wait for the PSVR Super Slim Pro version
GRRRRRRRR.
I wish i knew what HDR pass through meant. I'm sure this will make it to the West and maybe someday I'll buy one.
... although not exactly life-threatening - this is a bit of a kick in the nuts to day one purchasers like myself.. sure there's ways around it (have both plugged into your TV and then just change the hdmi at the back of PS is the best way imo) but still, not being able to just change the processor and 'upgrade' if you've already purchased PSVR is yet another oversight on Sony's part... got to say... as time goes on, slightly regretting adopting early on this one...
@BAMozzy I never said it wasn't a big oversight? "Well, first and foremost its Processor Unit has been updated to enable HDR passthrough – an embarrassing oversight in the original version."
@1ManAndHisDroid To be honest day one purchasers know the risks, in particular with something as cutting edge as a virtual reality headset. I'm pretty excited to one day get a PSVR but I always said I'd hold out for the technology to prove itself and better iterations arrive, or for it to die and pick one up on the cheap. Sounds like it's been pretty successful so far though. But still, I feel like waiting a bit longer! Don't blame anyone getting it early though, just wasn't for me this time.
@kyleforrester87 - fair enough.. I think with any tech - it's really got to be something new / exciting to warrant a day one purchase (and I'd definitely put PSVR into that category) - don't wait forever though - you're missing out on some incredible game-changing experiences... and knowing that you're part of something making it a success, makes it even more worthwhile! It's the 'sit and wait' mentality that can make / break a technology!
I think some perspective is needed in this thread. We're not talking about a brand new PlayStation VR that has a better screen and unique functionality — it's literally a change to the cable and Processor Unit.
It's an identical product otherwise.
As I stated in the article, it's like when Sony changed the internals of the PS4 slightly after launch to make it lighter and less power hungry.
@get2sammyb I was agreeing with you totally on the fact it was an oversight and adding my thoughts on it too. It wasn't to contradict you in anyway - sorry if it came across that way.
@rjejr Yet another 'lengthy' downtime. I know some aspects certainly need attention (Raid Keys, Legend of Acrius Emporers Seals and some 'bugs' in the Raid as well as some 'balancing' tweaks) but 4hrs to fix and update these? Its getting ridiculous - Every week now we are seeing 3-4hrs of 'downtime' and its always during EU peak hours.
Its great that Bungie are fixing issues but I can't think of any console online game requiring 'downtime' to fix these. Other games just roll out a patch...
They can ram it right up their *** if they think im away to buy a new headset. Its annoying enough the original doesn't allow HDR passthrough even though it was released basically in conjunction with the Pro. Im sure im not alone in those who bought a 4k HDR TV, Pro and PSVR to be all setup for the best experience.
Part of the reason I dont bother with VR very much is the fact the original doesn't do HDR passthrough and swapping cables about is a huge annoyance, not to mention potentially damaging the HDMI ports on my expensive TV with plugging and unplugging. Now I cant even buy the processing unit alone as it uses different cables. How convenient.
Incredibly poor support for early adopters. The thing hasn't even been out for a year
@get2sammyb you mention ways around so that I don't need to constantly swap cables if I want to play in VR while retaining HDR outwith VR?
Welcomed improvements but seriously, you mean to tell me that they really could not make the new processing unit compatible with the old headset by using the same type and size socket? As I understand it the cable is thinner but how would that effect the socket/ connection? Why use a different socket/connection. I don't know, seems like they just don't want to sell the processor separately simple as that. If you want HDR you have to buy the new model.
@rjejr Maybe it was a case of being in the right place at the right time...
These improvements are pretty nice, the one I like the most is the rear headphone jack. That is my biggest annoyance with PSVR. That cable always gets tangled with the fat PSVR cable. I’d prefer Bluetooth headphone support for the original PSVR since I have the Platinum headset.
I don't own a 4K TV yet & have the OG PS4 so I'm not affected by the HDR issue.
The cables don't bother me anymore, but it's cool they've improved it.
I'm pretty happy with my headset. Wish I could use it more, but I knew that would be an issue when I got it.
Glad they're improving on the design. As long as they keep supporting VR I'm onboard for PSVR2.0.
Just get those standalone aim controllers out here Sony! The Farpoint bundle on Amazon is £100!!
Where’s the updated camera??? I think that’s the culprit for any and all tracking issues.
@MadAussieBloke Cheers, ill have a look in to that.
It was such a poor oversight on Sony's part.
Still loving mine. Waiting for the one year anniversary sales next month to grow my VR library.
It was a minor concern for me, but this does make the device more appealing for me. Since GT Sport won't support the G27, I'm not sure if I'll invest in VR or a new wheel (probably the ladder).
@shafedog247 Some of the tracking issues are down to just having the one camera and tracking the lights. It always needs line of sight to all lights so if something blocks a light - either an arm, body or something coming between you and the camera, it loses line of sight and can 'struggle' a bit.
I thought they had revised the camera since the PS4 launched...
@SwitchGlitch - awwww - thanks for that! What a nice thing to say! it really is an excellent system, with some amazing titles... and definitely worth getting the newer version if you get the chance!
@BAMozzy their camera revision took it from a square design to a round one. I believe the specs are unchanged. It also only has an 85 degree field of view, which is why I think it needs an update.
Great, I JUST bought the launch version two months ago. Guess I gotta start setting aside another $400 sigh
@Neolit Yeah I don't like the placement of the new volume control. I think that's a step bacwards.
As someone who got one on launch day, sure I'm a bit salty that there's an improved unit already, but I'm also glad. The HRD thing and the mess of cables were the biggest complaints people had, and this addresses both. The larger the install base the better--I truly want this tech to succeed.
While I won't be grabbing this one, I'm excited that there's a stepping stone between my model and the eventual PSVR2.0 (which I will be getting!).
The reason I don't have a PSVR headset yet is because of the HDR passthrough issue; I've wanted to get it for a while, but it's been holding me back. This update would be enough to convince me to pick one up, though.
Slightly annoyed I can't just purchase the new pass through box. I'll wait for an updated headset before buying another model though.
Wonder if Sony will have to markdown the old model in order to clear them out. If I was going to get a VR unit, I'd want the new one because HDR is probably the biggest game changer in recent years (for me anyway as a base PS4 owner).
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