As virtual reality continues to expand, users of the new Apple Vision Pro are eager to know if it will support Steam VR, the popular VR gaming platform.
Many users are curious about its compatibility with existing VR platforms, particularly Steam VR, which is a dominant force in the virtual reality space.
Despite Apple has not officially announced compatibility, in this blog, we will explore the potential for Apple Vision Pro to support Steam VR and some workarounds.
Will Apple Vision Pro Support Steam VR?
The Apple Vision Pro does not officially support Steam VR, as Apple typically favors its proprietary systems and has not announced any partnership with Steam VR.
Apple Vision Pro Current Steam VR Compatibility Status
The VR community is known for developing workarounds and hacks to increase device compatibility.
They have found some hacks to use third-party drivers and streaming apps have enabled some level of cross-compatibility in the past.
However, in a hypothetical scenario where such developments have occurred, examples might include:
1. Third Party Solution
A third-party app similar to VRidge that allows the Apple Vision Pro to connect to a PC and stream Steam VR games directly to the headset.
VRidge is a software application allows users to play PC virtual reality (VR) games on their smartphones or standalone VR headsets. It works by streaming VR content from a PC to the mobile device or headset, effectively turning it into a PC VR headset substitute.
2. Custom Drivers
Custom Drivers developed by the community that trick Steam VR into recognizing the Apple Vision Pro as a compatible headset, similar to how Trinus VR works with other mobile devices.
Trinus VR is a software can be used with various VR-ready games and applications, and it supports different types of connections, including USB and Wi-Fi, for flexibility and convenience.
3. Software Solution
Users on Twitter have discovered that the open-source app ALVR can connect the Apple Vision Pro to SteamVR, though gaming functionality is not yet supported.
This workaround hints at the Apple Vision Pro’s potential for future Steam VR compatibility despite current limitations.
4. Steam Link
Steam Link’s presence on the App Store enables iPhone and iPad users to stream PC games from their Steam library, and its recent release for Meta Quest suggests Valve is open to expanding platform compatibility.
The absence of VR controllers for the Apple ecosystem is a current hindrance to full VR integration.
Technical Considerations
The Apple Vision Pro would need to meet certain technical benchmarks to support Steam VR effectively.
This includes the headset’s display resolution, refresh rate, tracking capabilities, and hardware performance.
Given Apple’s track record of high-quality displays and powerful hardware, it’s plausible that the Apple Vision Pro would be technically capable of running Steam VR content.
Additionally, the integration would require software support. Steam VR operates on the OpenVR SDK, which means Apple would need to provide compatibility with this SDK or developers would need to create a bridge between the two platforms.
Market Dynamics For Steam VR
The demand for Steam VR support on the Apple Vision Pro could influence Apple’s decision to pursue compatibility.
If a significant portion of potential users are also avid Steam VR users, Apple might consider providing official support or at least not obstructing third-party solutions that enable Steam VR compatibility.
