HTC VIVE Focus Vision is official with color passthrough & more

HTC, one of the big names in the VR segment, just launched the VIVE Focus Vision. Gamers seeking a unique experience appear to be the target audience for the new virtual reality headset. The device is based on the existing VIVE Focus 3, but brings several improvements.

The VIVE Focus Vision’s design is quite similar, if not identical, to the VIVE Focus 3. They also share some key specs, such as the Snapdragon XR2 chip, a 120° FOV, and a 2448 x 2448 resolution per eye. However, there are tweaks designed to appeal to a wider audience. “Now, PC gamers can bring the same high-end headsets used in VR arcades into their homes,” claims Shen Ye, HTC VIVE’s global head of product.

HTC targets gamers with the VIVE Focus Vision VR headset

HTC has been trying to make its Focus headsets more appealing to the average tech consumer, rather than limiting it to businesses. The company took a step in that direction with the Focus 3, offering controllers similar to those of the Meta Quest 2. Now, the VIVE Focus Vision integrates cameras with color passthrough to power mixed reality. Additionally, it supports foveated rendering, a technology that focuses graphics resources solely on your current view rather than dispersing them throughout the entire field of view. This enables a more efficient use of the hardware for better visual experiences.

HTC’s new VR headset adds DisplayPort support via USB-C for a lossless connection to a PC. A future update will raise the maximum supported refresh rate from 90Hz to 120Hz. While the chip is the same as the VIVE Focus 3, the new model includes 12GB of RAM (previously 8GB of RAM). It maintains 128GB of internal storage, expandable to up to 2TB via MicroSD cards.

The headset’s main power pack offers around two hours of battery life. There’s a built-in cell that offers an additional 20 minutes, so you have time to change the power pack. HTC claims that the VIVE Focus Vision’s new ventilation system draws in up to 30% more air than before. You can use all of the VIVE Focus 3’s accessories with the new headset because they share the same design. However, a redesign of its headband enhances its resistance and comfort for extended use.

Price and availability

The VIVE Focus Vision is available for pre-order for $999 on HTC’s official website. Those who pre-order will receive some goodies, such as a “VIVE Wired Streaming Kit” that includes a 5-meter USB-C cable (compatible with DP 1.4 alternate mode) and multiple adapters for easy PC connection. They’ll also get three fixed games and one game pack to choose from (7 games in total). Pre-orders will be open until October 17.