Recent advancements in audio technology have allowed high-end headphones and earbuds to integrate sophisticated sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes. These sensors typically enhance spatial audio features by accurately tracking head movements, creating a more immersive sound experience.
New Uses for Existing Technology
What’s intriguing is that Sony's flagship headphone lines, including the WF-1000 and WH-1000 models, are now being repurposed for an entirely different function: head tracking controls for gaming. This innovation comes from developer Nicholas Slattery, who initiated a project called Sony Head Tracker.
Enhancing the Gaming Experience
The Sony Head Tracker leverages the embedded sensors in Sony headphones to serve as head tracking devices compatible with hundreds of PC games. Popular simulation games like Microsoft Flight Simulator and Assetto Corsa are among the titles that can benefit from this technology.
Software Integration for Windows
Essentially, Sony's headphone lines come with a built-in Android Head Tracker protocol as part of their firmware. However, Windows operating systems do not recognize this protocol. This is where Slattery's application steps in. The Sony Head Tracker acts as a bridge, connecting the headphone hardware to OpenTrack, a movement tracking software that supports over 200 PC games. Originally designed to work with smartphones, webcams, and infrared eye trackers, OpenTrack can now take advantage of Sony's headphone capabilities.
Compatibility and Limitations
Currently, several Sony devices are supported due to their spatial audio capabilities. Unfortunately, Apple’s headphones and earbuds cannot participate in this functionality. They use a proprietary protocol that prevents them from operating with Windows for such applications.
If you own one of the compatible Sony headphones and enjoy playing simulation games on your PC, this project offers a cost-effective way to enhance your gaming experience. Demo videos indicate that the sensitivity and response of the head tracking are comparable to dedicated Virtual Reality (VR) devices, providing another layer of immersion for gamers.
Source: https://inet.detik.com/consumer/d-8567254/canggih-sensor-headphone-sony-bisa-dipakai-untuk-main-game-pc
