The HTC Vive was originally released at MWC 2015 and then had got the HTC Vive Pre name after a hardware update at CES 2016. At this year’s MWC, HTC has shifted to the original moniker naming the latest VR headset, Vive.
Also read: Check out our MWC 2016 coverage
Here is everything you need to know about this headset.
Design and features
When it comes to the design and the features of the new headset, there is not much change. However, the official details for the VIve are still to be released. The updated design for the consumer release is much smaller and more comfortable to wear. Other new additions include a better head strap and updated motors.
As for the abilities, the only real new feature is the Vive’s ability to connect to iPhones and Android phones to deliver alerts and messages when you’re in VR. This service is called Vive Phone Services.
Hardware Specs
The HTC Vive includes a display featuring two 1080 x 1200 screens. The company claims that the pixel density is enough to eliminate the screen door effect, unless you really look for it. Total resolution of the screen comes to 2160 x 1200 pixels, and an aspect ratio of 9:5, as opposed to other headsets’ more standard 16:9. This will mean more natural images that are taller and easier to look at, while the screen has a 90Hz refresh rate. Sony has also added a front-facing camera.
For motion tracking, the headsets come with two wireless infrared Lighthouse cameras, which are placed in the corners of a room, and follow the headset’s 37 sensors.
Release Date and Price
The consumer version of HTC Vive will be available in April 2016 with pre-orders starting on 29 February. We had guessed earlier that the headset will be priced higher than the Oculus Rift and apparently we were right. The final cost of the Vive is $799 which is almost $300 more expensive than the Oculus Rift.
However, do keep in mind that with the increased price, you are also getting more hardware. The HTC Vive bundle comes with two controllers, the Lighthouse base stations, some earbuds, plus copies of the games Job Simulator; The 2050 Archives and Fantastic Contraption.