HTC teases new lip-tracking module for Vive VR headsets — a game-changer for VRChat

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HTC Vive Cosmos
(Image credit: Future)

The HTC Vive VR headsets may currently be lagging behind the Oculus Quest 2, but it might be bringing new add-ons that could be a game-changer for many VR experiences, especially fans of VRChat and even VR dating.

HTC has teased VR fans with a close-up image of what might be its lip-tracking module add-on for its Vive VR headsets. Now we just need smell-o-vision and we can finally immerse ourselves in the virtual world. 

As spotted on Upload VR, it seems HTC will release its lip-tracking module to all Vive owners soon, as there's even a date on the photo upon closer inspection that states "3/10/21." Whether that means a full reveal on March 10 in the American date format, or a release date for October 3 using the U.K. date format, we're not sure.

One fan on Twitter showed a picture of the lip tracking module attached to the Vive Pro headset. HTC Vive's lip-tracking module was fully shown back in GDC 2019, although it wasn't made available for the general consumer. Essentially, the module hangs below the headset in front of a user's lips, which will then be able to read the movements of lips when speaking (or pulling wacky faces).

HTC Vive has been teasing a number of things on its Twitter page recently, along with a "It's your move" tweet with another close-up image of what seems to be a HTC Vive tracker. Instead of another VR headset release, HTC could be hinting at add-on accessories to better immerse players in VR. Seeing as the HTC Vive is considerably a lot pricier than its VR headset competition (although fitted with great specs), releasing add-ons could be a better option for those who already own a HTC Vive.

There's no doubt VR headset competition is heating up, with Apple rumoured to launch its own VR headset in 2022, while Facebook's Oculus Quest 2 is set to get a major 120Hz upgrade very soon.

Speaking of being being immersed, if you're after a freaky VR experience, check out our first thoughts on Wraith: The Oblivion — Afterlife — it made one of us puke. 

Darragh Murphy
Darragh Murphy
Editor

Darragh Murphy is fascinated by all things bizarre, which usually leads to assorted coverage varying from washing machines designed for AirPods to the mischievous world of cyberattacks. Whether it's connecting Scar from The Lion King to two-factor authentication or turning his love for gadgets into a fabricated rap battle from 8 Mile, he believes there’s always a quirky spin to be made. With a Master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from The University of Sheffield, along with short stints at Kerrang! and Exposed Magazine, Darragh started his career writing about the tech industry at Time Out Dubai and ShortList Dubai, covering everything from the latest iPhone models and Huawei laptops to massive Esports events in the Middle East. Now, he can be found proudly diving into gaming, gadgets, and letting readers know the joys of docking stations for Laptop Mag.