More details: VIVE Ultimate Tracker
HTC has introduced the Vive Ultimate Tracker, a device that can track itself without base stations or a PC. The device uses two cameras with a wide field of view and a built-in chipset to perform inside-out positional tracking, which is the same method that most headsets use to track their own movements. This means that the device does not require base stations or the headset’s cameras to see it, and that it can work directly with standalone headsets.
This is exciting since previously, HTC Vive accessories only worked with headsets using SteamVR (all being tethered). Their announcement specifically mentions standalone headsets, so it seems likely we’ll see support for at least the Quest 3 before too long. Full-body tracking is something the Quest tries to fake, to varying levels of success, but for many games or social experiences, it just looks silly having legs popping in and out of place. For me, it’s not just the body tracking for an avatar, but for the ability to just look down and “my own” body when I’m at a virtual location. No one’s done that yet, but I it will really take immersion next level! It’s not cheap, but it’s cheaper than many solutions. I’m excited to see how it develops!
