Intel is working on its own VR goggles, but unlike other companies the chip giant is making plans to eliminate motion sickness once and for all. For those out of the loop, motion sickness is one of the biggest problems facing VR on its road to success.
The device in the spotlight is called IonVR and at first glance, it looks like every other VR headset in the market and those yet to be released to the public. The design is just a 3D printed box, and it should cost no more than $229. However, it requires a smartphone that is 4.5 to 6 inches in length.
What sets this device apart from the others is its aim to almost eliminate motion sickness with a new technology called MotionSync. Other companies have attempted to put an end to motion sickness, but it would seem as if Intel is closer to getting this done.
Here's the kicker: the latest IonVR design works hand in hand with Intel's RealSense Smartphone Developer Kit. The prototype is Android-powered, and is capable of gathering visual data from up to 3 meters away.
This device takes some ideas from Project Tango, Google's three-dimensional mapping technology. By combining IonVR with RealSense, the chip giant is making it possible for users to detect objects in the real world while wearing the VR headset. It is also possible to physically walk around a virtual environment using the headset's camera as a motion controller and a positional tracker.
Should users stretch out their hands while wearing IonVR, they should see a grey cloud-like object representing the hands. If the user walks across the hallway, the walls will show up as a static-looking object.
If the user looks at a mirror, they should see a pixelated version of their own face. Nothing recognizable, but considering where the tech is right now, we're fine with that.
Users are not required use the Intel RealSense smartphone. They can use any Android or iOS device as long as it can fit inside IonVR.
Now when it comes down the pricing and release date, the IonVR will hit store shelves early this year alongside the RealSense Smartphone Developer Kit. As stated above, IonVR will cost a cool $229 to own, and can be pre-ordered right now via the company's official website. As for the Intel smartphone, folks will be able to pick it up for $399 when it is made available. Furthermore, those on the pre-order list will be eligible for exclusive promotions.
Bear in mind that the RealSense smartphone is not designed for consumers, but for developers. Furthermore, it is Android-powered, though it is not yet certain which version powers it.
