HTC, the renowned virtual reality (VR) technology company, has finally released its highly anticipated Vive Ultimate Tracker, an innovative inside-out tracking accessory that promises to enhance the VR experience. Unveiled earlier this year at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2023, the Vive Ultimate Tracker is set to revolutionize full-body tracking for HTC standalone devices and PC VR setups.

Unlike its predecessors, the Vive Ultimate Tracker utilizes inside-out optical tracking instead of SteamVR base stations, making it particularly useful for users of HTC standalones such as the Vive XR Elite and Vive Focus 3. HTC has also announced plans for future support on OpenXR/SteamVR based PC VR setups.

The Vive Ultimate Tracker integrates two wide-FOV cameras, allowing it to accurately track its own location in three-dimensional space. Users can maximize the full-body tracking potential by linking up to five trackers per headset, attaching two trackers to the elbows, two to the feet, and one to the hips.

One of the significant advantages of the Vive Ultimate Tracker is its versatility. The tracker is equipped with a standard 1/4″-20 UNC mount and a pogo pin interface, enabling it to attach to a variety of objects. HTC plans to release developer documentation and the 3D CAD file publicly, allowing users to design their own custom mounts.

Furthermore, HTC has revealed that post-launch, the Vive Ultimate Tracker will function independently with SteamVR, without requiring a headset. This feature will enable accurate tracking of people or objects, making it particularly valuable for industrial applications such as equipment and prop-tracking. The company has announced that this functionality will be offered as a beta version in the following weeks.

In addition to the exciting tracker release, HTC has announced the upcoming launch of a native VRChat app for the Vive XR Elite in December. The app will also support the Vive Ultimate Tracker, further enhancing the immersive VR experience for users.

The Vive Ultimate Tracker is priced at $200, providing users an affordable option for basic full-body tracking. For those interested in a more comprehensive tracking solution, HTC offers a three-tracker bundle for $600, including the necessary Vive Wireless Dongle (MSRP $39). This bundle includes trackers for each foot and one for the hips, utilizing supplied straps for attachment.

As an incentive, HTC has introduced several special deals available until December 31st. Owners of the Vive XR Elite who purchase the Ultimate Tracker 3+1 Kit + TrackStraps Special for $600 can enjoy a $100 discount by registering a valid Vive XR Elite serial number. The bundle also includes a Dance Dash download key, further enhancing the VR experience.

For those looking for the ultimate VR package, HTC is bundling the Vive XR Elite and the Vive Ultimate Tracker for $1,500. This comprehensive package includes the VIVE XR Elite headset (MSRP $1,000), three Vive Ultimate Trackers, one Wireless Dongle, a Dance Dash download key, and TrackStraps.

The Vive Ultimate Tracker boasts remarkable features such as 6DoF inside-out tracking and two wide-FOV tracking cameras. The accessory is charged via USB Type-C and utilizes pogo pins for input. Currently, it requires a Vive Wireless Dongle for connection and is compatible with devices such as the Vive XR Elite and Vive Focus 3 (LBE). However, HTC has confirmed plans to extend compatibility to other standalone and PC VR headsets in the future.

Enthusiasts and developers alike are eagerly embracing the launch of the Vive Ultimate Tracker, paving the way for a new era of immersive VR experiences with enhanced full-body tracking capabilities. To explore the available deals and learn more, visit vive.com.