Virtuix, a hardware startup that has been working on its Omni One VR treadmill for over a decade, has finally announced a launch date of September 10. The system, priced at $2,595 plus shipping, aims to tackle the challenge of locomotion in virtual reality (VR) experiences. Moving around in VR while sitting or standing still can be a less than ideal experience and can even cause nausea. Virtuix’s passive system, which uses special footwear, allows users to slip in place on a concave saucer, providing a more immersive and natural way to move in VR.
Virtuix’s journey has coincided with the increasing interest in mixed reality, led by companies like Oculus/Meta, HTC, and now Apple. The startup has managed to raise $40 million in funding through a combination of venture capital and individual investment. The Omni One also gained significant exposure as the model for a similar system in Steven Spielberg’s “Ready Player One” adaptation.
During the pre-order period, Virtuix sold 3,000 units of the Omni One. The startup has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from beta users, fueling their excitement for the official launch. CEO Jan Goetgeluk expressed eagerness to welcome gamers into the Omni One community and transform the gaming experience for players of all ages.
The long development process of the Omni One highlights the challenges that hardware startups often face. While technology can sometimes advance at an incredible pace, bringing hardware products to market can be a slow and complex process. Virtuix’s perseverance and dedication have paid off, with the Omni One poised to offer a unique and immersive VR experience.
The launch of the Omni One comes at a time when VR motion peripherals are gaining traction in the market. Roto VR, another company in the space, recently announced its spinning game chair priced at $799. These advancements in VR accessories and peripherals are crucial for enhancing the overall VR experience and making it more accessible to a wider audience.
Virtuix’s Omni One is set to revolutionize the gaming experience by providing a natural and immersive way to move in VR. With its upcoming launch, gamers of all ages can look forward to exploring virtual worlds with greater freedom and realism. As technology continues to evolve, innovations like the Omni One bring us closer to the vision of truly immersive virtual reality experiences.