In a significant leap forward for virtual reality enthusiasts, HTC has introduced the Vive Ultimate Tracker, a cutting-edge device designed to elevate the VR experience by providing multi-point body tracking. Priced at $199 per unit, this tracker is a pivotal addition to HTC’s Vive Tracker 3.0 line and offers a bundled package at $599, including the essential wireless dongle and additional accessories.
The Vive Ultimate Tracker is tailored for compatibility with standalone VR headsets like the Vive XR Elite and Vive Focus 3, addressing a crucial gap in body tracking capabilities. While VR headsets capture head and hand movements, the absence of precise body tracking limits the immersive potential of applications and games.
HTC Vive Tracker Design
To address this limitation, HTC’s Ultimate Tracker, weighing a mere 94 grams, can be attached to various accessories such as a sports racket set, expanding its utility for activities like VR training and dancing in VRChat. The tracker, boasting up to seven hours of battery life, employs two wide field-of-view cameras for accurate 3D motion tracking, providing users with an unprecedented level of realism and immersion.
Shen Ye, Global Head of Product at HTC, highlighted that the self-tracking capabilities of the Ultimate Tracker eliminate the need for a base station, thus simplifying setup and making VR experiences more accessible. The device can be used for diverse applications, from sports training to gaming, catering to both elite athletes and casual gamers.
What sets the Vive Ultimate Tracker apart is its versatility and ease of setup, as affirmed by Adam Dickinson, Director of Rezzil, a tech company specializing in athlete training using VR. Dickinson notes that the tracker’s adaptability makes it a valuable tool for various users, regardless of their expertise in VR.
The sleek design of the Ultimate Tracker, smaller than a smartphone and flat in shape, marks a departure from its predecessor, the Vive Tracker 3.0. It can be seamlessly paired with a standard mount and connected to HTC’s Vive XR Elite and Vive Focus 3. Operating over WiFi, the trackers open up possibilities for untethered VR experiences.
Vive Ultimate Tracker’s Capabilities
Looking ahead, HTC envisions the Ultimate Tracker working independently with SteamVR, a move expected to enhance its applications for industrial use. A beta release for direct connection to SteamVR is on the horizon, promising expanded capabilities for the device.
HTC acknowledges the competitive landscape in the VR industry, particularly against Meta and its Quest headsets. The expansion of the Ultimate Tracker’s capabilities aims to position HTC Vive as a frontrunner by offering innovative applications to attract the growing community of VR enthusiasts.
The Vive Ultimate Trackers are not just standalone devices; they are a testament to HTC’s commitment to advancing VR technology. With a range of up to 10 meters and a battery life of seven hours, these self-tracking trackers are poised to redefine motion capture for sports training and gaming.
For those seeking a comprehensive VR tracking solution, HTC offers a bundle including three Vive Ultimate Trackers, a wireless dongle, three TrackStraps, and a Dash Dance download key for $599. Owners of the HTC Vive XR Elite can enjoy a $100 discount on this bundle, available until the end of 2023. Alternatively, the Vive Ultimate Trackers can be purchased separately for $199 each, without the inclusion of the wireless dongle.
To explore the possibilities of the Vive Ultimate Tracker and delve into the future of immersive virtual reality experiences, visit HTC’s Vive website for more details and to place your order. Embrace the next frontier in VR technology with HTC’s groundbreaking innovation.
Cynthia is an experienced tech writer with a background in computer science. Passionate about staying on the cutting edge of technology, AI, and cyber Security. Specializes in complex, mysterious concepts of AI and cyber Security for readers of all backgrounds.
