Apple is preparing to preview its annual operating system (OS) releases at WWDC 2025 next week. So far, rumors have highlighted major changes coming to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS in terms of interface and naming strategies. However, that doesn’t mean Apple is neglecting visionOS, which powers the Apple Vision Pro. A recent report suggests that mixed reality headsets could benefit from expanded support for peripheral gamepads like PlayStation, Xbox, and Space Controllers.
VisionOS 26 features of Apple Vision Pro
According to a report from 9to5Mac, visionOS 26 will bring expanded controller support to the Apple Vision Pro beyond its current capabilities. The space headset is said to take advantage of native compatibility with PlayStation and Xbox controllers. While it already provides support for the aforementioned peripherals, it has not been widely adopted by developers so far.
The report states that when a game requires a dedicated controller to play, a dedicated “Controller Required” badge will appear on Vision Pro’s App Store. With VisionOS 26, it will also alert users when they get a game that forces the use of PlayStation, Xbox, or any other controller part of the Made for iPhone (MFi) program.
Additionally, the Cupertino-based tech giant will reportedly support a new type of input device – the Space Controller. These peripherals are often used for intuitive interactions in AR and VR, tracking orientation and position in three-dimensional space. VisionOS 26 will also reportedly alert users if they get a game that specifically requires motion-aware spatial controllers.
The move may highlight Apple’s increasing emphasis on gaming in recent years. Last year, it added support for wired Xbox controllers for iPhone, iPad and Mac. Presumably, the company will announce several new initiatives during this year’s WWDC, such as a new dedicated gaming app. The upcoming gaming app will likely act as a centralized hub from which Apple users can launch games and check their activities and in-game achievements.
Additionally, the company has reportedly held talks with PlayStation to discuss supporting PlayStation VR2 controllers on the Apple Vision Pro and asked third-party developers if they would provide the same support.
