With visionOS 26, Apple aims to close a significant gap in the Vision Pro's use case: gaming. Until now, the headset has primarily been a device for productivity, media, and immersive presentations. Gaming was possible, but never really the focus. That could change with the next major update – because visionOS 26 brings native support for classic gamepads and new, motion-sensitive spatial controllers.
If you've tried gaming on the Apple Vision Pro so far, you've quickly noticed: It works, but often feels off. While there has been some controller support since visionOS 1.0, it was limited, not system-wide, and rarely used by developers. With visionOS 26, Apple aims to change that, while also introducing new input options specifically designed for 3D interaction. This shows that gaming on the Vision Pro is suddenly a serious concern for Apple.
Classic controllers are fully integrated
Apple plans to massively expand support for controllers, as 9to5mac reports. This affects both PlayStation and Xbox gamepads, as well as MFi-certified models. In the future, you should not only be able to pair these devices, but also use them specifically in games – including customizable button assignments for individual titles. This was already technically possible to some extent, but is now officially and system-wide supported. Another new feature is that you can clearly see in the visionOS App Store when a game requires controller support. During purchase, it is displayed whether a PlayStation, Xbox, or MFi controller is required. This information was previously only indicated by an icon. Now you receive a notification during the purchase process itself. This creates more clarity and orientation.
Spatial Controller as a new device category
In addition to familiar gamepads, visionOS 26 will also support spatial controllers for the first time. These are motion-sensitive devices specifically designed for spatial navigation and interaction in 3D environments. These input devices can detect gestures, movements, and positions in space, enabling a highly direct and immersive gaming experience. This is particularly relevant for games on Vision Pro, which benefit from natural control and high precision. Apple also plans to clearly indicate in the App Store when a game requires such controllers. This goes beyond the current "Controller Required" icon and creates a better foundation for developers and users.
Collaboration with Sony and third-party developers
Apple reportedly contacted Sony some time ago to establish official support for the PlayStation VR2 controllers on the Vision Pro. The collaboration has apparently been ongoing for months. The goal is to make the PSVR2 hand controllers as seamlessly compatible with the Vision Pro as possible. Apple has also approached third-party developers and asked if they would like to integrate spatial controllers into their games in the future. The technical foundation is now being laid with visionOS 26. This will allow games originally developed for iOS or macOS to work on the Vision Pro with the same controllers in the future, but also benefit from new input formats.
New game app planned for Apple systems
In parallel with expanding controller support, Apple is working on a new Games app, which is scheduled to be released later this year with iOS 26, macOS 26, iPadOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. This app will serve as a central hub for games—for titles from Apple Arcade, from the App Store, and even for games installed on the Mac outside of the App Store. In terms of content, the new Games app will be somewhat reminiscent of the previous Game Center. It will offer achievements, challenges, leaderboards, and social features like friends lists. Tabs like "Playing Now" will let you see what your friends are currently playing, track their progress, or compare yourself directly with them. According to internal reports, Apple is also exploring deeper integration with FaceTime and iMessage. This includes the ability to chat while playing, launch small App Clip-style mini-games, or jump into a shared game directly from Messages.
Future still open – WWDC will probably bring more information
Whether Apple will unveil all of these features at the upcoming WWDC remains uncertain. However, the evidence clearly indicates that a major announcement is imminent. Bloomberg also recently reported that Apple has big plans for gaming on visionOS and is already preparing important steps. While the price of the Vision Pro remains a barrier for many potential gamers, visionOS 26 makes the device significantly more attractive in terms of functionality. It moves closer to existing gaming platforms without losing its own strengths—especially its spatial rendering.
Gaming becomes an integral part of visionOS 26
visionOS 26 brings a long-overdue enhancement for anyone serious about gaming on the Vision Pro. With support for classic game controllers and new spatial controllers, Apple is laying the groundwork for a better, more immersive gaming experience. Combined with the planned game app and social features, this creates a platform that's no longer just peripherally concerned with gaming, but actively focused on it. (Image: Shutterstock / JLStock)
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