Rumors about a new Steam VR headset have been flying around for that last few months, but today we have confirmation that yes, this is a real thing. The headset is called Vive and is being developed by both Valve and HTC. Yes, HTC, the phone maker.
The headset boasts two 1200×1080 displays which refresh at 90 frames per second. If that sounds higher than most TVs and consoles can handle, you’re right. The idea is to fill your field of vision in all directions, even as far as your peripheral vision. That way the VR experience won’t feel jittery, or like you are looking through a window.
The headset will include a gyrosensor, an accelerometer, and a laser position sensor, allowing the headset to know exactly where your head is and how it is positioned relative to the game world. However, the most interesting part of this headset is the reveal of a second peripheral called the Steam VR base station. This one peripheral will be able to sense your position throughout your entire room, in spaces up to 16 feet by 15 feet. Thus, it will allow you to walk around the room in order to control yourself in the VR world. It’s still unknown how it will prevent you from bumping into walls and furniture, but supposedly it will be able to allow you to use your own body in order to physically interact with the game world.
The Vive will be supported not only by game developers, but by companies like Google, HBO, Lionsgate, and even educational institutions like the National Palace Museum. Headsets are set to be involved in not only gaming, but also traditional media, like movies, and interactive exhibits. The consumer version of the headset is, surprisingly enough, set to release this year.
Source: PC Gamer