The HTC Vive is about to get an upgrade in convenience and comfort.
What are some of the most inconvenient aspects of virtual reality currently? Of course there are multiple answers to this question depending on who you ask, but a majority of people will tell you the same thing: the hardware is less than convenient and most of the head mounted displays could be a little bit comfier.
Well the fine folks at SynergyWiz are looking to make those issues a thing of the past with their recently-funded rEvolve headstrap for the HTC Vive.
The ingenious device connects seamlessly with the existing Vive straps, utilizing an easy button system adjust size and fit any user. This adds an extra level of comfort that’s being compared to the ‘halo’ mounting design featured on the PSVR headset, which has gained a massive amount of praise for being the most comfortable option of the three main VR headsets. Even more impressive is the flip-up visor functionality the rEvolve adds to the popular headset. The attachment actually allows you to flip up the display without having to fully remove the device, much like the visor of a motorcycle helmet. This is a feature I can’t believe took this long to get to the public. Current headsets with their fixed straps and assortment of cables aren’t exactly quick to remove, making simple tasks like checking your phone or just getting a quick view of the outside world a bit of a hassle. Honestly I don’t think i’ll ever look more ridiculous then when I’m fruitlessly searching for Vive controllers (or more realistically a beer) while already wearing the headset.
The current design of rEvolve is a bit of a bulky mess, but it’s important to note that this is merely a prototype. The exciting device reached its crowdfunding goal of $5,000 recently and is already standing at $13,338 with over 20 days of funding still remaining. This gives SynergyWiz plenty of time and resources to redesign the strap to be a little more pleasing to the eye. Then again if you’re trying to look cool while using any VR headset, you’re gonna have a bad time…