The PlayStation VR headset can also display footage from a source other than the PlayStation 4. For example, when users connect the VR glasses to a PC, they see the desktop image projected in 2D in a virtual space.
According to tests by Eurogamer, the so-called Cinematic Mode of Sony’s VR glasses also works with an Xbox One, Nintendo Wii U, Mac and any other device with HDMI output. This requires that the Processing Unit that comes with the headset is also in use and that it is even connected to a PS4 via USB. The PlayStation Camera is not required.
Looking around by moving the head is possible, thanks to the gyroscope that is in the headset itself. According to a PSVR user on Reddit, audio doesn’t work when the headset is plugged into the Xbox One. This is probably due to the way the Processing Unit processes the audio.
Viewing actual 3D VR images or playing VR games from any source other than the PlayStation 4 is not possible. Sony obviously doesn’t support real VR on platforms other than the PS4, so drivers for the PlayStation Camera, Move controllers, head tracking and the like would have to be put together by the community itself. On top of that, existing games would still have to be adapted to support the PSVR.
Sony itself has not yet made any statements about partial compatibility with other sources, so this may not be the intention and the Japanese company will close compatibility with other HDMI devices in the future.
Image: Eurogamer