HTC Vive Focus features 6 degrees-of-freedom. – HTC Vive Focus standalone VR headset launched
HTC has launched its long-rumored standalone VR headset, the Vive Focus at its Vive Developers Conference in Beijing, China. The Vive Focus is a head-mounted display equipped with 6 degrees-of-freedom, and world-scale tracking. This also means that Vive Focus works independently and eliminates the need of additional base station or sensors to use it. The VR headset is exclusive for the Chinese market only but its availability and pricing details haven’t been announced.
The Vive Focus is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835 SoC, and features a high-resolution AMOLED display. It also comes with a head strap like the Vive Deluxe Audio Strap, and a 3 degrees-of-freedom controller along with the Vive Focus headset. The headset is further designed with a built-in water-repellent padding and instant-on.
The VR headset is also optimized by Vive Wave VR open platform where developers can add VR-ready content. Content from Google Daydream and Samsung Gear VR is also said to arrive on Vive Wave soon. In addition to this, content from HTC’s Viveport will also be available for Vive Focus.
Engadget further details how the HTC Vive Focus can be integrated with other HTC headsets including the Focus itself. With multiple headsets connected together, people can be together in the same virtual environment. Examples given for these situations include in a classroom, or simply watching a movie together. ALSO READ: Google I/O 2017: Standalone VR headsets is what we needed; WorldSense technology from HTC, Lenovo coming soon
On announcing the Vive standalone VR headset earlier this year, a global variant was also promised. Global markets would receive Google Daydream-based VR headset. However, it is said that the Daydream version will not be out this year as HTC Focus will be priority for the rest of this year. HTC Vive Focus comes after the launch of Oculus Go, Oculus ‘ first standalone VR headset. Oculus Go is priced at $199 (approximately Rs 13,000), and will go on sale early 2018. Both products are awaiting availability details for a commercial launch. RELATED: Oculus announces its standalone VR headset, Oculus Go
