HTC unveils new VIVE Flow Headset
After many rumours about a new headset from HTC, a new device is finally on the horizon: the HTC VIVE Flow. However, this is not the headset that was expected. What exactly is it? You can read all about it in our blog.
Meditation and relaxation
HTC describes the new HTC VIVE Flow as an “immersive headset, suitable for meditation and relaxation”. This is immediately evident from the design: the VIVE Flow has the appearance of large sunglasses and is much smaller than previous models, such as the HTC VIVE Pro 2 and the VIVE Focus 3. No controller is included with the HTC VIVE Flow, as the headset can be connected to and fully controlled with an (Android) smartphone.
HTC VIVE Flow Specifications
The VIVE Flow is a lightweight device. Weighing only 189 grams, the headset is lighter than most smartphones. It comes with two displays featuring a 3.2K resolution and a 72 Hz refresh rate. The specifications are slightly below comparable standalone headsets, such as the Oculus Quest 2 and HTC VIVE Focus 3. However, the VIVE Flow targets a completely different market than these standalone headsets (video and relaxation, rather than gaming).
The VIVE Flow has a 100-degree field of view and can be worn like sunglasses with two hinges on the sides. It has built-in speakers for spatial audio, which enhances the experience when, for example, watching a film.
What is the HTC VIVE Flow used for?
One of the first questions that came to mind when we saw the headset was: “What is the HTC VIVE Flow used for?”. If you can't game with it, what is the point of a headset? Fortunately, HTC has a good answer: you can really see the VIVE Flow as a personal cinema for watching videos. For instance, when you are on a plane, you can put on the headset and watch a film.
"With the Vive Flow, HTC is taking technology in a new direction, focusing not on what we do, but how we feel," said CEO Cher Wang. "In recent years, our well-being has taken precedence, so it has never been more important to take time for ourselves to relax. Vive Flow provides the perfect opportunity to escape within our four walls and immerse ourselves in our ideal environment."
The HTC VIVE Flow comes with a standard charger for easy recharging. You can quickly charge it in most places. The battery lasts about 5 hours (depending on what you are doing with the headset). HTC has also developed a stylish case to store the headset, making it easy to toss into your bag and take with you.
The (expected) price of the HTC VIVE Flow is €569. It is not yet known when the product will be available in the UK, but when it is, you can certainly purchase the VIVE Flow from us!
