Published in IoT

OSVR improves VR headset

by on14 June 2016

Open source competitor to the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive

The Open Source Virtual Reality (OSVR) consortium thinks that its new VR headset which be a true competitor to the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive should be out soon.

The OSVR is upping its game. The new version comes with a low persistence OLED panel and a total resolution of 2160x1200, or 441 pixels per inch (PPI). It has a 110-degree field of view and supports 90 frames per second.

Dubbed the HDK2, the headset will start shipping in July for $399. That is cheaper than the Oculus Rift ($599) and the HTC Vive ($799), although the HDK 2 does not come with headphones or a controller.

OSVR says it will be marketing the HDK 2 to both consumers and developers. It could appeal to anyone who is looking for a cheaper way to experiment with VR. OSVR will continue to sell the HDK 1.4 headset for $299.

OSVR has a cunning plan to build an open, dynamic VR ecosystem. The idea is to inspire other companies to build their own hardware, expanding the platform and attracting game developers along the way.

OSVR's partners, Razer and Sensics, are announcing a development fund worth $5 million today. Razer says it will buy game codes "in bulk" from each successful applicant. The number (and therefore the value) will vary depending on the team and the project.

Last modified on 14 June 2016
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