Virtual reality innovations are rapidly developing across a range of platforms at an accelerating pace.
Deloitte Global predicted that virtual reality will have its first billion dollar year in 2016 but what are people buying? CBR compares the most talked about Virtual reality headsets, features and tech specifications.
Headsets
Google: The Daydream VR headset, is the latest launch and is available in the UK, USA, Canada, Germany and Australia
It is built on embedded Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chip, 4GB RAM, Android 7.0 Nougat and an AMOLED screen.
There are various apps and games available with the headset, which includes Wall Street Journal, CNN, Youtube, Netflix and a game which features JK Rowling’s ‘fantastic beasts and where to find them.’
It includes a controller which has embedded smart sensors which follow movements and gestures.
HTC: The HTC Vive headset, released earlier this year has a front facing camera providing users with real-world awareness, 110 degrees field of view for captivating immersion, and 32 headset sensors for 360 degrees motion tracking.
Graphics are based on NVIDIA GeForce, and its runs Windows 7, 8.1 or 10 operating systems.
Facebook: Its Oculus Rift is only available with high specification PC’s, running the equivalent of Intel Core i5-4590.
Similar to the HTC Vive, operating systems from Windows 7 or newer are recommended.
Facebook: Facebook’s Oculus Rift headset, which was initially deployed as a kickstarter project before being deployed by the firm.
As is standard the product includes various sensors and a camera to add more movement detection. It also includes a pair of Oculus Touch controllers and an Xbox one controller.
Multi-player games are also available to be played in virtual reality with other VR headset owners.
Cost
Google: The price for the Daydream VR headset is £69. It will only run off a Google Pixel smartphone which could cost up to £599.
HTC: The HTC Vive is retails at £759.
Facebook: The Oculus Rift headset is priced at £549, the Oculus Touch headphones, to be supported with the headset are priced at £189.
Convenience
Google: Daydream VR offers virtual reality news feeds from publications such as The Guardian, film apps and a wide selection of games.
HTC: The Vive headset’s main convenience feature is the inclusion of two wireless controllers gives users the opportunity to enjoy the VR experience with friends and family.
Facebook: The Oculus Rift headset’s compatibility with PCs and gaming consoles has been praised. It too has wireless controllers that support the embedded games .
Stats
Google: Daydream VR measures 16cm and a weight of 220g.
HTC: The HTC Vive has an OLED display, with resolution of 2160 x 1200, and field view of 110 degrees.
Facebook: Oculus Rift also includes a OLED display and 2160 x1200 resolution. Its field view is also similar to Vive at 110 degrees.
