Sony Interactive Entertainment will be releasing the new PlayStation VR CUH-ZRV2 in Japan on Oct. 14. The pricing of the new unit will remain under the $400 price range.
Although there is no release date for the west yet, the new Sony VR headset will be a welcoming hardware upgrade for PlayStation 4 users around the world. The changes on the unit may be small, but it is all geared towards better playing experience and longer user engagement.
Most notable of these new changes is the new processor unit that will implement High Dynamic Range (HDR) pass through. This is the breakout box that connects the PS VR headset to the PS4. With the previous unit, users needed to disconnect the processor unit to use the HDR function. With the PS VR CUH-ZRV2, watching HDR content on the TV does not require unplugging the processor unit.
Sony said in a blog post on the PlayStation site that the CUH-ZRV2 processor unit cannot be swapped in to the CUH-ZRV1 because the cables are completely different. However, all PS VR games are compatible with the new VR headset.
"The new version features an updated design that enables the stereo headphone cables to be integrated with the VR headset and slimmer, streamlined connection," Sony added in the blog post. This means that earbuds can be plugged directly to the new unit.
The CUH-ZRV2 will come with default earbuds, but the adaptability of the headset band might be an issue since the new shape is different. Below the visor of the VR headset are the integrated volume and mute controls.
The new PS VR CUH-ZRV2 will have an early release date in time for Christmas season in Japan, but Sony will also be releasing the matching new controller for the new headset. The CECH-ZCM2 will only be compatible with the PS4 but the performance upgrade to the new model will feel very significant for users of the console.
