Sharp Unveils Hybrid VR Glove Controller: Tactile Haptics Meet Classic Controls in Next-Gen Prototype

Japanese tech giant Sharp is making headlines in the XR world with the reveal of a prototype hybrid VR controller that combines the immersive feel of haptic gloves with the practical familiarity of classic controller buttons and thumbsticks. This innovative device promises to deliver a richer, more tactile virtual reality experience, blending advanced touch feedback with tried-and-true gaming controls—all in a single wearable.

Next-Level Haptics At the heart of Sharp’s new VR gloves are “multi-segmented tactile elements” embedded on each fingertip, including the thumb. These segments can generate a range of vibration patterns, simulating sensations such as smoothness or roughness to mimic virtual textures. While the haptics don’t offer force feedback or temperature sensation—meaning they won’t resist finger movement or replicate heat and cold—the device aims for a higher tactile resolution than current market offerings. The result? Virtual textures that feel much more lifelike and immersive.

Sharp notes that while these sensations aren’t a perfect reproduction of real-life touch, they provide a diverse range of tactile feedback by adjusting input parameters, and the company plans to refine these effects further by collaborating with early users. This focus on co-development could help fine-tune the gloves for VR creators and enthusiasts alike.

Hybrid Controller Meets Glove What sets this prototype apart is its hybrid design: it isn’t just a glove. Along the exterior of the index finger sits a miniaturized controller interface—complete with traditional buttons and a thumbstick—allowing users to perform familiar game inputs without letting go of the immersive glove interface. This synergy addresses a long-standing wish among VR fans: a glove that bridges the gap between rich haptics and conventional controls.

Tracking & Compatibility Currently, the glove lacks its own built-in positional or finger tracking, relying instead on potential compatibility with third-party tracking standards (the company hints at mounts for “high market share” controllers). This approach could make the glove modular for various tracking systems, but would initially depend on external camera-based hand tracking for input representation.

Early Access & Market Plans Sharp has already started demonstration experiments and offered pre-registration on its Japan-facing website, pricing the device at a provisional ¥100,000 (about $680–$700). However, commercialization isn’t confirmed—Sharp notes that development or launch may be canceled depending on feedback and technical challenges.

An Experienced Player in XR While Sharp might seem like a newcomer in VR peripherals, it’s worth noting their leading role as an OEM supplier of high-end VR displays—having supplied panels for devices like Meta Quest 2—and their partnership with NTT Docomo on the MiRZA AR glasses in late 2024.

Looking Forward Sharp’s glove could set a fresh benchmark for immersive interaction if it makes it to market. For now, it stands as one of the most intriguing developments in VR hardware in 2025—blending the feel of real textures with the convenience of classic VR inputs, and hinting at the next leap in virtual immersion.