MediaTek, a new PER International client and one of the world’s largest semiconductor producers, is developing a custom chip that will control the virtual reality headsets and controllers of the new PlayStation VR2.
MediaTek announced the news at its recent Executive Summit and it will be the company’s first system-on-a-chip (SoC) in a VR headset, having previously provided processors for many other types of devices.
Custom chips to control and coordinate VR headsets
Although no details have been released about the chips that MediaTek will be producing for the PlayStation VR2, we do have a few insights into how they will be used. Rather than running the games directly, which will be powered by the PlayStation 5 console, the MediaTek chips will control the VR2’s display and coordinate communication with the wireless Sense gamepads.
The PlayStation VR2 has two 2000x2040 displays, one in each eye, with up to a 120Hz refresh rate. There are also several sensors and cameras between the controllers and headset for positional tracking. The MediaTek chip will need to be powerful enough to relay the positional information and translate graphic data from the PS5 to the OLED monitors in the headset, which is no small task.
A major coup for MediaTek
MediaTek’s first foray into the VR and XR industry is a big step for the company. Until now, most standalone and connected virtual reality and mixed reality headsets have used Qualcomm Snapdragon XR chips to power them. However, Sony explained that it chose to work with MediaTek because its custom chips would deliver high performance, reduce latency and run efficiently.
The original Playstation VR has proved to be popular, giving console owners an affordable way to experience VR at home. However, the PlayStation VR2 is expected to take that a step further and become a major force in the VR gaming market, with this deal marking a clear statement of intent from MediaTek.
Making moves in new markets
Although this is MediaTek’s first step into the virtual world, it is already the world’s leading semiconductor manufacturer in smartphone chips, TV chips and Android chips. Its emphasis on energy-efficient, budget processing has made it the perfect fit for low-cost devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K.
However, the company has been steadily building its chip business in other fields too, as seen by the recent announcement of its flagship phone chip the Dimensity 9200. It’s going to compete with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and will start to appear in smartphones before the end of the year.
Looking for MediaTek jobs?
At PER International, we’re delighted to be the new recruitment partner of MediaTek. With operations in the UK as well as nine other countries around the world, we’re on the lookout for talented electronics engineers and executives who want to take the next step in their careers. Explore our latest jobs and get in touch with our team today.
