This month, HTC VIVE announced a bespoke controller for Flow, the firm’s lightweight virtual reality (VR) glasses.
In the initial announcement, HTC first introduced the new controller as a business tool, but in recent updates, the firm revealed that the device would also support leisure and gaming activities.
We’ve introduced Controller for VIVE Flow, an optional 3DoF controller that gives users another way to navigate menus and immersive experiences through intuitive controls.
Learn more: https://t.co/Vnd4Rh5JUo#VIVEFlow #HTCVIVE #VIVERSE pic.twitter.com/8YZCOWNy0B
— HTC VIVE (@htcvive) June 23, 2022
Flow’s new controller streamlines spatial navigation and enables screen-sharing options between the head-mounted device (HMD) and smartphones.
HTC Flow allows for “communal” VR experiences, where different Flow users can seamlessly enjoy immersive applications from an individual account or share their experiences with others, such as enabling users to cast movies directly to the smartphones of friends and family.
The new controller also enhances HTC’s Guardian parental control service that lets parents manage and monitor the VR content their children enjoy, and also allows multiple people to engage with spatial content under a cross-platform input network perfect for “play and productivity,” according to HTC.
HTC’s product description states,
“Let others dive into VR with the same device via individual accounts and screen cast immersive adventures for all to see”
HTC has not confirmed a release window for the accessory, although the Taiwanese firm claims the device is “coming soon.”
Flow for Bussiness
Last week, HTC introduced the VIVE Flow Business Edition, which expands the product’s availability for enterprises by supporting training and remote guidance.
HTC also integrates rich enterprise-grade content creation tools and 3D modelling software users can access in shared immersive spaces.
The VIVE Flow Business Edition includes a 30-day trial period of VIVE Sync, the firm’s Metaverse service designed for the future of work and featuring rich shared immersive spaces that support industries such as healthcare, education, and automotive.