It has been nearly two years since HTC launched the Vive Virtual Reality system, and the company has finally created a hardware revision for the headset: the HTC Vive Pro.
Vive Pro is a top of the line version of HTC’s original VR headset which is integrated with a 3D audio and high-resolution OLED screen that displays in 2880 x 1600, combined with a pixel density of 615 pixels per inch, an upgrade from its former 448ppi. The headset comes with a new head strap alongside a sizing dial that will help redistribute weight evenly. The price of this headset is not yet disclosed and it is due to be launched in the first quarter of 2018.
The Vive Pro has dual front facing cameras and two microphones as well. The attached headphones which flip up on either side like wings help create a comfy and absorbing VR environment. The Vive Pro will work with existing VR systems and with the original base station and Steam tracking 1.0. The players will be able to pair up to four base stations which will enable them to create a play area of 10 x 10 meters.
With the introduction of Vive Pro, HTC has already identified its potential demographic users as hardcore VR enthusiasts and VR-focused businesses that are looking to create the most powerful experiences. Introducing Vive Pro doesn’t mean that the company plans to stop selling the original Vive in 2018.
In addition to the Vive Pro, HTC also announced their plans to release their own Vive Wireless Adapter which just like the TPCast will plug into a Vive-equipped computer to transmit its video signal wirelessly. This means that HTC will likely introduce a battery that needs charging. HTC has not yet provided any battery life estimate, but considering that TPCast usually lasts for around two hours, this could mean that the battery life of the Vive Wireless Adapter will also be around a similar range. The wireless adapter will work with both its VR headsets. It uses Intel’s WiGig technology, Wi-Gig will work in the 60Ghz band, which will prevent any interference and run at low latency.
