On September 18, 2024, HTC VIVE introduced the "VIVE Focus Vision", an evolution in their series of Extended Reality (XR) headsets. This new device, which functions as both a PCVR and a standalone device, features eye-tracking, a resolution of 5K and a field of view of up to 120 degrees.
This fall, other major players such as Meta and Pico also launched new devices on the market, further heating up competition in the XR sector. While both Meta and Pico rely on the latest Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor, HTC surprisingly opted for the previous model, the Snapdragon XR2. This decision could raise questions about performance and future compatibility, especially when compared to the latest developments from competitors.
Despite choosing an older processor, HTC has made advances in other areas that allow it to match Meta's innovations in the Quest 3, particularly in the areas of mixed reality and hand tracking. The VIVE Focus Vision brings significant improvements in visualization and user comfort. Particularly noteworthy is the integration of eye tracking and the automatic adjustment of the interpupillary distance (IPD), which allows the device to be quickly adjusted to different users.
The robust specifications and high price of the VIVE Focus Vision indicate that HTC is primarily targeting enterprise customers with this device. This is in contrast to Meta and Pico, which could gear their devices more towards the mass market. Its use in VR arcades, corporate training and high-end home applications offers significant advantages for professional applications, which underlines HTC's target group strategy.
The headset is available for $999 USD in the US, with similar pricing in other markets. Pre-orders are open until October 17, 2024, with pre-orderers receiving additional incentives such as a free VIVE Wired Streaming Kit.
Although HTC is going against the industry trend by opting for the Snapdragon XR2, the VIVE Focus Vision shows impressive technological advances. Its mixed reality capabilities and comfortable design make it a strong option for businesses and professionals willing to pay for quality. The headset marks an important step in HTC's strategy to establish itself as a leader in the enterprise segment of the XR industry.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display resolution | 2448 x 2448 pixels per eye (4896 x 2448 pixels combined) |
| Refresh rate | 90 Hz as standard, support for 120 Hz via DisplayPort at the end of 2024 |
| Field of view (FOV) | Up to 120 degrees |
| Audio | Dual microphones with noise and echo cancellation, dual drivers with patented directional speaker design, privacy mode to minimize sound leakage, 3.5 mm audio output |
| Processor | Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ XR2 |
| Memory and storage | 12 GB LPDDR5 RAM, 128 GB ROM, expandable up to 2 TB via MicroSD (not included) |
| Connections | USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port x 1, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port with DisplayPort support x 1, Bluetooth 5.2 + BLE, Wi-Fi 6, 6E (depending on country) |
| Sensors | 4 tracking cameras, 2 eye-tracking cameras, 2 high-resolution color see-through cameras, G-sensor, proximity sensor, depth sensor, infrared illuminator, gyroscope |
| Eye tracking | 120 Hz data output, accuracy from 0.5° to 1.1° within a 20° field of view, 5-point calibration, automatic IPD adjustment |
| Ergonomics | Perfect weight balance for long-lasting comfort, magnetically attached front and rear cushions with washable PU leather, 150 mm wide face interface for wide eyewear, automatic eye comfort adjustment supports IPD from 57 mm to 72 mm, patented quick-release headstrap design with easy-to-use adjustment wheel |
| Battery | Removable, replaceable battery with up to 2 hours runtime, up to 50% charge in 30 minutes with included 30 W adapter, hot swap supported with integrated backup battery for up to 20 minutes extended standby time |
| Controller specifications | Sensors: Hall sensors on trigger and grip buttons, capacitive sensors on trigger, joystick and thumb rest, G-sensor, gyroscope, Inputs: Ergonomic grip button, analog trigger button, A and B / X and Y buttons, system/menu buttons, joystick, Battery: Controller battery life up to 15 hours, integrated rechargeable battery (charged via USB-C) |
Are you interested in developing a virtual reality or 360° application? You may still have questions about budget and implementation. Feel free to contact me.
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Clarence Dadson CEO Design4real
