VR glasses have still not spread in the market. On the one hand, this is due to the allegedly limited content, the rough prices and the mostly bulky models. One of the really big ones in the market is now starting a new attempt to change that.
HTC introduced new Vive glasses at CES 2023 in Las Vegas . This time the goal was to combine all the advantages of the specialists from their own portfolio in one device. And chances are that HTC can pull this off. Because the Vive XR Elite has some smart features.
HTC VIVE XR ELITE: THE SPECIFICATIONS
Some highlights are hidden in the technical data. The resolution of the two displays is 2K each, which is close to a 4K image overall. There is also a field of view of 110 degrees and a refresh rate of 90 Hz. Four wide-angle cameras around the displays allow passthrough, i.e. the perception of reality around you, through the built-in displays. This happens in color and should run with so little delay that you can not only move safely with the Vive XR Elite in reality, but also special games and applications are possible. In this way, game developers can incorporate reality into their games and, for example, adapt the game’s map to the real environment. HTC has integrated a mechanical diopter adjustment so that all of this is also displayed sharply for people who wear glasses. As a long-sighted person, you can use this to compensate for up to 6 dioptres.
You control the new HTC Vive XR Elite with hand tracking or with the familiar controllers, two of which are included with the purchase. The entire headset weighs just 625 grams, including the battery, with which HTC has achieved a decent weight.
DESIGN AND FUNCTIONS
The low weight is also due to the fact that there is no strap over the head. Many competing products such as the Pico 4 rely on such a strap. But that’s not the only special feature of the design. Because you can separate the battery block from the rest of the glasses at the back of your head and thus realize many different purposes. With the battery, you can move freely in the room and, for example, gamble for up to 2 hours. You can extend the runtime with a second battery. Because the battery can be changed without interruption on the HTC Vive XR Elite. So that the glasses don’t fall off your head when slaying a zombie, you can tighten them with a screw cap.
Without the battery pack, you do need an external power source that is connected via USB -C, but you can lean on the plane and watch films or work, for example. The temples of the glasses are extended with pins to ensure a better hold even without the headband. However, a test must first show how well this works.
HTC VIVE XR ELITE PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
According to HTC, you can now pre-order the headset worldwide through vive.com and participating authorized retailers. Pre-orders are expected to start shipping at the end of February. In addition to the headset itself, the package contains 2 controllers and the headset battery holder. The whole thing costs 1,399 euros. In addition, the VIVE XR Elite will also be available for companies. HTC will also launch a face and eye tracker later this year.
