In a major leap forward for virtual reality accessibility, a talented independent developer has successfully unlocked eye tracking functionality on the PlayStation VR2 headset for PC users. This breakthrough could dramatically lower the cost barrier for advanced VR features such as foveated rendering and expressive avatar interaction. While this development is still in its early stages, it holds vast potential to revolutionize high-fidelity PC VR for enthusiasts and developers alike.
From Console to PC: A New Horizon for PSVR2
PlayStation VR2, launched by Sony for the PlayStation 5, is one of the most feature-rich consumer VR headsets on the market. With capabilities like HDR visuals, haptic feedback in the headset, adaptive triggers, and, crucially, eye tracking, it delivers an immersive experience that’s tough to beat in its price range.
However, when Sony introduced official PC support for PSVR2 via a SteamVR driver, users were left disappointed. The key features that set PSVR2 apart—including eye tracking, headset rumble, and adaptive triggers—were missing. These limitations stem from Sony’s restricted implementation, designed primarily to support visual output on PC, not the headset’s full suite of capabilities.
The Developer Behind the Breakthrough
Enter the software engineer known online as whatdahopper, who operates under the banner of Bnuuy Solutions, an open-source initiative known for building tools that improve cross-platform VR usability. Some of their notable contributions to the VR modding community include:
- OculusKiller – A utility that redirects Meta Quest Link users directly into SteamVR, bypassing the Oculus Dash interface.
- ReLinked VR and OculusWRP – Projects that eliminate the need for Meta’s PC software by enabling direct connections to SteamVR.
Now, they’ve taken on their most ambitious project yet: enabling PlayStation VR2’s eye tracking on PC, bringing the functionality to a much wider and more diverse audience.
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Introducing PSVR2Toolbox and DriverEx
The project, dubbed PSVR2Toolbox, is designed to reverse-engineer the PSVR2’s communication protocols and unlock its dormant capabilities on PC platforms. At the heart of the solution is a mod for Sony’s official SteamVR driver called DriverEx. This modified driver integrates the newly developed eye tracking functionality, allowing PC applications to utilize it.
As of now, DriverEx and PSVR2Toolbox are in a very early work-in-progress (WIP) phase. The eye tracking feature works, but it currently lacks calibration—essential for accurate tracking. Nonetheless, the fact that the feature is operational at all is a significant milestone.
In a public demonstration video, whatdahopper showcased the system detecting and reacting to eye movement in real-time, even simulating going cross-eyed to highlight the responsiveness of the tracking module.
Why Eye Tracking Matters in VR
Eye tracking is not just a novelty—it is a transformative technology for VR. When effectively integrated, it can:
- Enable foveated rendering, which prioritizes visual detail where you’re looking while reducing detail in peripheral vision—saving precious GPU resources.
- Increase social presence in platforms like VRChat by translating your real eye movements to your avatar.
- Power gaze-based UI navigation and interactions in games or productivity tools.
- Provide accessibility improvements for users with mobility limitations.
Titles like DCS (Digital Combat Simulator) already support foveated rendering, and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is in beta testing for similar integration. These are graphically intensive experiences that benefit greatly from the performance optimization offered by eye tracking.
A Game-Changer for Budget VR Enthusiasts
One of the most compelling aspects of this development is its potential to drastically reduce the cost of eye-tracked VR on PC. Currently, PC-compatible VR headsets with eye tracking—like the Pimax Crystal, Varjo Aero, or Quest Pro—can cost between $1200 and $2000.
In contrast, the PSVR2 headset retails at around $400, and with a compatible USB adapter and cabling, the entire setup can be brought under $500. This makes it the most affordable solution for eye tracking in the PC VR ecosystem, provided the functionality becomes stable and accurate enough for practical use.
Supporting Open Innovation
As an advocate for open development, whatdahopper has committed to releasing PSVR2Toolbox and DriverEx as free and open-source projects. They encourage community support through Patreon, where backers can contribute financially to the ongoing development of the mod.
This model ensures that innovation is driven by collective effort rather than commercial gating, and it aligns with the broader trend of open-source tools leading breakthroughs in VR and AR ecosystems.
What’s Next?
While the eye tracking is currently uncalibrated, whatdahopper is optimistic about integrating a calibration system. This would allow users to fine-tune the accuracy of the tracking to their individual eye physiology, unlocking more precise functionality in foveated rendering and gaze-driven input.
Furthermore, as the PSVR2Toolbox matures, there’s potential to unlock additional features like HDR support, haptic feedback, and adaptive triggers, pushing the headset even closer to parity with its console capabilities.
This development also pressures Sony to reconsider how open they want their hardware ecosystem to be. If the modding community can achieve what the official drivers haven’t, it raises questions about the limitations of manufacturer control versus community-driven innovation.
Also Read: Apple Teams Up With Sony to Enhance Vision Pro VR Gaming
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is PlayStation VR2 eye tracking?
Eye tracking in PSVR2 monitors the user’s eye movements to enable features like foveated rendering and expressive avatars in VR.
2. Can PSVR2 eye tracking work on PC?
Yes, thanks to the open-source efforts of developer whatdahopper, PSVR2 eye tracking now works on PC in early form.
3. What is PSVR2Toolbox?
PSVR2Toolbox is an open-source project aimed at unlocking full PSVR2 functionality, including eye tracking, on PC.
4. Is the solution free to use?
Yes, the solution is free and open source, with optional Patreon support for those who want to fund further development.
5. Does it work with SteamVR?
Yes, it integrates with SteamVR through a modified driver called DriverEx.
6. Is eye tracking accurate in this setup?
Currently, the system lacks calibration, so accuracy is limited. However, improvements are expected as development continues.
7. What are the benefits of eye tracking in PC VR?
It enables foveated rendering for performance boosts, realistic eye movements in avatars, and gaze-based interaction.
8. How much does this setup cost?
Around $500 total, including the PSVR2 headset and required PC adapter/cables—significantly cheaper than other eye-tracked headsets.
9. Can I use this mod with games like DCS or MSFS?
Yes, these games support foveated rendering, and the mod could enable eye tracking benefits in them if fully calibrated.
10. When will the mod be publicly released?
There’s no fixed release date yet, but it is expected soon. It will be available via Bnuuy Solutions’ GitHub once stable.