Sony fans, VR enthusiasts and pundits alike are eagerly awaiting the launch of the PlayStation VR headset. However, recently leaked pricing details for the device have been refuted by the Japanese manufacturer.
There have been few details about the PlayStation VR until Monday, when the Daily Mail reported an Amazon Canada listing for the headset, which included a $1,125 CAD price. If accurate, this would equate to $800 or £770 price for the PlayStation VR. However, Sony has since refuted the claim, with a representative telling Forbes , “This was an error by Amazon, we haven’t announced price for PlayStation VR.” The listing has since been updated and no longer includes a price or release date for the headset.
Two major tech conferences, CES 2016 and Mobile World Congress, have passed with little word from Sony about the PlayStation VR. Sony president and CEO Kaz Hirai spoke at CES , only about software that would accompany the headset, revealing that there are over 100 virtual reality titles in development for the PlayStation VR. Sony has also stated that the PlayStation VR would be available for purchase sometime during the first half of 2016. However, the sale date listed on Amazon Canada was Dec. 31, 2016, which Forbes said may have simply been a placeholder.
The PlayStation VR will likely be announced March 15 in San Francisco, during the Game Developers Conference. Sony is expected to share price and exact relate details for the handset.
The PlayStation VR is likely to feature a 5.7-inch Full HD display with 100 degrees of viewing area and a 120Hz and 90Hz refresh rate modes. The headset will include sensors such as Accelerometer, gyroscope and the PlayStation Eye tracking system in addition to HDMI and USB connections. The PlayStation VR will likely feature 3F audio and should be compatible with PlayStation Move and the PlayStation Dual Shock 4 controller. Recent reports indicate that Sony has filed patent for a glove controller, intended for use with the PlayStation VR.
Once unveiled and released, the PlayStation VR will compete against the HTC Vive , which is currently available for preorder, selling for $799, and the Oculus Rift , which is also available for preorder for $599.
