The HTC Vive accessory can go cordless with the TPCAST

Simply following tech news you can see how big a trend virtual reality is. And development for these devices are in full swing. The HTC Vive is getting a much needed feature: the capability to use it sans cords. The TPCAST, which was developed by one of the companies that participated in the Vive X $100 million accelerator program, lets users use the HTC Vive wirelessly. Users no longer have to fear getting entangled while walking around VR environments.

The TPCAST was offered for US$220 (around CA$300) on Vive’s Chinese site and is now sold out. Those who got one of the devices will get the accessory in the first quarter of 2017. There is no word if the accessory will be making its way to other countries but it would be a compelling offer if it did.

Source: Mashable

HTC to unveil its virtual reality app store worldwide

HTC’s giving its Vive virtual reality headset users another app store to browse through. Called Viveport, it’ll serve as the Taiwanese brand’s own store and it’ll become an alternative to Steam. It was initially launched in China, where Steam is a less established platform, and it served the purpose of giving access to VR content to those who don’t have access to Steam. But now we’ll be seeing a global release of the store. It’s currently in developer beta and will be getting a full rollout in the future. If you’re a developer interested in peddling your wares on Viveport, you can register here.

Viveport is a more general interest store than the more gaming-centric Steam. It’ll be available across multiple platforms including the desktop, smartphones, and an in-VR catalog connected to Vive Home. Steam on its own has been expanding beyond gaming and now offers a sizable non-gaming catalog. But if you want a VR-focused store, the Viveport will be worth checking out when it launches.

Source: The Verge

HTC Vive taking on business applications with $1,580 Business Edition

HTC's Vive virtual reality rig is red hot with gamers and consumer techies but it has a more serious side set up for business and enterprise applications.

Available from June 2016, Vive BE allows individuals and organizations to order Vive VR systems with additional services adapted for business and commercial environments. Alongside the full Vive VR system, Vive BE comes with commercial licensing, a dedicated Business Edition customer support line and a 12-month limited warranty. Businesses will be able to buy multiple Vive BE systems, with the option to order large quantities.

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HTC Vive now shipping, new demo locations announced

HTC's Vive VR can now be purchased through www.vive.com in 24 countries, shipping within 2-3 business days of purchase. In addition to online availability from HTC, individuals can now buy the Vive virtual reality system in 51 Microsoft Stores,  40 GameStop outlets and 10 Micro Center locations. Pre-orders placed through these retailers will be fulfilled beginning this week. 

Vive will also be demoed in 100 retail locations throughout North America. In addition to current retail demo locations, Microsoft Stores will expand from 29 to 51 locations, GameStop will increase demo locations from 10 to 40, and Micro Center will add 5 more locations for a total of 10. The demonstrations are open to the general public to experience room-scale virtual reality first-hand with the variety of content available on Steam^¢ē.  The full list of participating locations is available at www.vive.com. Check here to see my intial impressions of the HTC Vive.