HTC Link Is The First Mobile VR Headset With Its Own Display

Besides the now-famous Vive line, HTC is busy offering a new kind of headset to its fans. HTC Link comes with its own display, although it’s still operated by a smartphone #realitymagic

The latest VR headset from HTC was made to pair with the company’s most recent phone, U11 (see it here). Although powered by that handset, HTC employs its own display during virtual reality experiences. The device is said to be equipped with two 3.6 inch 1,080 x 1,200 LCD panels with a 90Hz refresh rate.

The outside-in tracking system allows a rare full six degrees of freedom (6DOF) tracking. This feature is found on Oculus Rift but not on average, mobile headsets like Samsung Gear.  HTC Link comes with two compatible controllers and weighs 554g. It also seems that the headset and controllers will come with their own lights instead of depending on those from Vive. These should be easy to track with the help of an external sensor. One of the first experiences users will have access to on the new Link will probably be Ghost in the Shell, after the recent collab they announced. 

Unfortunately, HTC Link is debuting only in Japan this week and there’s no reason to believe they’ll make it available in other countries. In fact, since Google is determined to make its own Daydream VR headset with 6DOF tracking by enlisting the help of the company, it makes sense why HTC is reluctant to bring Link over.

The Vive/Daydream device is expected to land later this year.