PlayStation VR2: Eye-tracking details and release questions

Sony officially unveiled the new VR headset PlayStation VR2 at CES 2022. The VR goggles, which are optimized for the PlayStation 5, come with a new eye-tracking technology, among other things, which could come from the manufacturer Tobii. However, this raises questions around the release, which is actually expected for this year.

PlayStation VR2: Eye tracking from Tobii?

The PS VR2 Sense technology combines eye tracking, headset feedback, 3D audio. One IR camera is used for eye tracking per eye. This seems to come from the well-known manufacturer Tobii.

The company, which is known for its eye tracking solutions, has now revealed that it is in negotiations with Sony. For the PlayStation VR2, the company is acting as a supplier for the eye-tracking technology, according to the press release from February 07.

However, the company does not currently want to comment on questions regarding the financial significance of the deal, as negotiations are currently ongoing.

Is the PSVR2 coming later?

While it is little surprise that Sony was able to win Tobii, apparently the leading manufacturer for real eye tracking in the VR field, for the PlayStation VR2, the timing of the announcement is surprising.

In view of the ongoing negotiations, the planned release date of the PSVR2 glasses in 2022 is questionable. If the negotiations and the associated implementation of the eye-tracking technology have not yet been completed, it could be close to a release this year.

However, it is conceivable that both companies are already further along and Tobii has only now decided to go public with their involvement. It is unclear whether the rumored start of mass production in January 2022 will actually already take place. Sony has yet to name an official date for the PlayStation VR2. However, PlayStation fans should probably expect a release in the coming year.