Ekto VR introduced new VR boots that allow users to 'physically' navigate in virtual spaces solving the problem of motion sickness. A number of beta tests are planned to be carried out before the end of 2022.
Ekto VR has introduced special Ekto One boots offering a deeper immersion in virtual reality. The so-called "moon boots" allow users to move in digital worlds on two feet while gliding on the spot in the real world. According to Ekto One developers, the device helps fight motion sickness, which could allow more users to access the metaverse.
Ekto One is designed to track the users while they move and steadily slide them back into the initial position. The movements of players are translated into VR via the Vive trackers attached to the boots which allow keeping a real-time record of where the players are located in a game. The device is used in conjunction with a VR headset, providing users with a feeling like they are actually navigating the virtual space on their own two feet.
The development of Ekto One boots has not been completed and the company hasn't unveiled the release date of their new device yet. However, Ekto VR has planned a number of beta tests that will be carried out before the end of 2022. The pricing is also unclear yet, but it is anticipated to be between $15,000 to $20,000 (the price of between 50 and 66 Oculus Quest 2 headsets). So, it will probably take time before Ekto One becomes available at a consumer-friendly price.
It's worth noting that this is not the first attempt to make movement in virtual reality more realistic. For instance, in 2016, Virtuix introduced a special omnidirectional treadmill Omni Pro, which allowed users to move inside a certain zone. In 2020, the company released a more compact version of Virtuix Omni One for home use, giving the user even more freedom of action.
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