Sony is indeed working on a virtual reality (VR) headset called "Project Morpheus," and the hardware is designed for the PlayStation 4 (PS4).
The upcoming VR headset from Sony consists of two pieces: a closed display, and what seems to be a PlayStation Move sensor. SONY Computer Entertainment (SCE) Worldwide Studios chief Shuhei Yoshida unveiled the new hardware at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2014, emphasizing that the "prototype" is "by no means final."
"At SCE we view innovation as an opportunity to build on our mission to push the boundaries of play," said Yoshida. "Project Morpheus is the latest example of innovation from SCE, and we're looking forward to its continued development and the games that will be created as development kits get into the hands of content creators."
In terms of specifications, Sony's new Morpheus headset features a 1080p display and a 90-degree field of view. It comes with 1000Hz motion detection, positional/rotational head tracking, and 3-meter working volume with full 360-degree tracking. The headset currently connects to the PS4 via a 5-meter wire, and only one headset is supported at a time. Tracking is made possible through the same camera that tracks PS4 Move controllers. The Morpheus headset also works for people with glasses, and users will also be able to mirror content pushed to the Morpheus to a TV. Meanwhile, an "Open Air" design will reportedly prevent the lenses from becoming foggy.
According to PlayStation R&D engineer Richard Marks, Morpheus requires a high-resolution screen, great sound, tracking, control, ease of use, and content, all of which are in the cards for the upcoming VR headset. Marks further asked developers to create content for Project Morpheus, explaining that Sony made the announcement at GDC particularly for this reason - to attract developers. Sony is already working with some developers, including Crytek and Epic games, but it needs more.
"Along with PlayStation Camera, Wireless Controller for PS4, and PS Move, Morpheus will deliver immersive breakthrough entertainment experiences to gamers through the PS4 system, leveraging SCE's expertise across key areas for VR - including display/optics, audio, tracking, control, ease of use, and content," Sony further explains in its press release on Wednesday, March 19.
The company also highlights that its PS4 platform has sold over six million units after three months and a half since launch, and it's still showing strong momentum. Developers will be able to create Morpheus content for PS4, with a Morpheus dedicated Software Development Kit (SDK) currently in the works. The SDK "will become available when ready."
