For weeks, HTC has been teasing a standalone VR headset that would be more portable than the Vive Focus 3. These teasers all share a common theme of comfort and leisure, showing a tube-shaped carrying pouch for the VR headset with the tagline “Go with the Flow.” But ahead of its official launch on October 14, seasoned leaker Evan Blass has revealed key details about the upcoming HTC Vive VR headset, including its design, features, pricing, and availability.
A set of images shared by Blass hint at a variety of uses for the upcoming HTC Vive headset. In addition to confirming what the headset will look like, the images also confirm its name – Vive Flow, which we’ve only been guessing based on teasers so far.
I miss you, @HTC? pic.twitter.com/hB7iPLLCHk
– E (@evleaks) October 12, 2021
As you can see in the image, the headset sports golden glass, similar to the company’s Project Photon concept smart glasses that debuted in 2020. Meanwhile, another image shows onboard processing capabilities, indicating that the HTC Vive will be a standalone headset. This confirms the VR AIO (all-in-one) product that HTC previously listed on the Bluetooth SIG website.
The temples of the smart glasses are foldable for ease of use and portability, and are equipped with earphones for an ‘immersive spatial audio’ experience. The images also suggest that the headset is designed to focus on “well-being and mindful productivity” and that it may have a mode to help users meditate when they’re not looking for entertainment. The Flow will likely come with special modes to help users relax in bed, with features aimed at improving sleep.
The leaked data also shows that the HTC Vive Flow connects to the smartphone via Bluetooth, in addition to the wired USB-C connection shown in other images. Users can transfer content directly from their smartphone to the headset and use their phone as a handheld controller.
— Evan Blass (@evleaks) October 13, 2021
— Evan Blass (@evleaks) October 13, 2021
Finally, a leak has confirmed that the HTC Vive Flow will be available for pre-order starting October 15th for $499. Shipping will begin in early November and will come with freebies including a bundle of seven free VR content, two months of a service called “Infinity Vista,” and a carrying case. We don’t know what Infinity Vista is, but Road to VR speculates that it could be a toned-down version of HTC’s Vive metaverse, Viveport Infinity.