PlayStation VR: New Model Incoming

Launching in Japan October 14, North America to follow.

By Matt Davidson

Sony has announced that an updated version of its PlayStation VR model is on its way, arriving first in Japan before making its way westward.

With a model number of CUH-ZVR2 (as opposed to the original's ZVR1 designation), the new and updated headset features several improvements over the original version, as detailed on PlayStation's US blog. The updated design means that the stereo headphone cables are now integrated with the headset, as well as a slimmer, streamlined connection cable - good news for anyone who spends their days fighting with the plethora of cables currently provided with the VR headset.

The new and improved PlayStation VR.

The updated Processor Unit also features HDR pass-through capability - meaning that PlayStation owners can now watch HDR PS4 content on their TV without having to disconnect the VR headset (although the headset will need to be turned off). It's important to note that the Processor Units can't be exchanged - the Unit for the ZVR2 model will not be compatible with the ZVR1, and vice versa.

For anyone looking to tell the difference between the two headsets when the new version goes on sale, Sony helpfully points out the different number designation for the new model, as well as pointing out that the product image on the packaging will be updated to represent the new hardware.

According to the Japanese PlayStation website, the updated PlayStation VR will launch there Saturday, October 14, with a retail price of 44.980 yen (or about $398/£299). The Japanese website also indicates that Sony is "reviewing" the PlayStation Move controller with an eye to launching a PS4-exclusive version with a Micro-B USB connection.

No date has yet been announced for Western territories; the US blog promises news of the North American launch date is coming "at a later date", while there is no news as of yet for Europe or Australia.

PlayStation broke the 1 million sales barrier this year and shows no sign of slowing down, with Monster of the Deep: Final Fantasy XV, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Doom VFR all releasing on the platform in the coming months.

Matt Davidson is a freelance writer for IGN who is a full virtual-reality convert. Give him a follow over on Twitter.

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