HTC today announced that its Vive virtual reality headset will be available for $799 this April.
viveThe consumer version of HTC’s device, developed in partnership with Bellevue-based Valve, will include wireless controllers, movement sensors, and two games: Job Simulator: The 2050 Archives and Fantastic Contraption. Pre-orders will open on Feb. 29.
Originally, HTC planned to start selling its headset at the end of last year, but delayed shipments in order to add improvements. At CES last month in Las Vegas, GeekWire had a chance to test out the newest developer edition of the headset with a few of those improvements like a redesigned headstrap and improved visual system. We came away impressed, particularly with a new front-facing camera that lets users gauge the physical space around them while wearing the headset.
HTC, which has its U.S. offices in Bellevue, also showed off a handful of Vive games to media members last month.
Facebook-owned Oculus opened pre-orders for its Rift headset last month and announced a price point of $599.
Taylor Soper is GeekWire’s managing editor, responsible for coordinating the newsroom, planning coverage, and editing stories. A native of Portland, Ore., and graduate of the University of Washington, he was previously a GeekWire staff reporter, covering beats including startups and sports technology. Follow him @taylor_soper and email taylor@geekwire.com.