The development process for the original HTC Vive headset was pretty long, with the final product undergoing a number of revisions before it was even released. Now, though, it appears the Taiwan-based company is shifting its focus towards the second generation of its headset.
With the HTC Vive going from strength to strength, it’s no surprise that HTC, a company that has firmly confirmed that VR will be a big part of its future, is looking into ways to improve upon its first VR headset. As is usual with any upcoming product, a number of rumors are currently floating around. According to the latest one, though, it appears HTC may be moving away from the cables with its next headset which is codenamed “Oasis” by producing a completely wireless model, removing some of the dependence on a PC by allowing users to move around more freely. According to research, a wireless model should have no performance troubles. Alongside the wireless capabilities, the company is also rumored to be actively improving the lighthouse mechanics which are typically hard to set up with the original Vive, so improving these is sure to make the next generation headset much more hassle free. As well as all of this, the company is also rumored to be looking into providing a 4K resolution, the only thing holding them back is the lack of a high frame rate and a significant drain on the battery life if they decide to go wireless.
HTC, unlike other companies such as Samsung or even Sony, have opted to enter the high-end of the VR market, which essentially limits the revenue they can gain from their VR division, but there is still the possibility the company could venture into lower-end headsets such as a standalone one or even a Google Daydream competitor which could also help push smartphones sales due to possible bundles or discounts. Obviously, if the company decides that it’s looking for increased revenue and profits, then the latter options are surely the way to go. For now, at least, it appears HTC is fully focused on the high-end of the market which, in the long run, could pay off considerably. It remains to be seen what HTC’s next VR headset will hold, but the company is surely doing everything to make it an even bigger success than the original Vive.