VR Accessory Adds Realism To VR Experiences
Virtual reality headsets take your visual sense to another level. What if something can add much more than a great visual experience, to turn it into an extremely realistic one? One company announced its accessory to VR headsets that promises to bring the overall VR experience to an unprecedented level of realism and immersion.
The FeelReal Mask, made by New York-based FeelReal, Inc., is an accessory to popular VR headsets that adds a new dimension to the usual VR experience. With the FeelReal Mask, users are treated to realistic effects like water splashes, vibration, hot and cold air, and even scents. Once mounted onto a supported VR headset, the mask will analyze whatever content is displayed on the head-mounted display, and will trigger the appropriate effects based on what you see on screen.
Still in prototype stage, FeelReal aims to bring a whole new level of realism to the VR experience, making it even more immersive and fun. Virtual reality content such as video games and 3D movies will hugely benefit from FeelReal’s key features.
In terms of ergonomics, the mask accessory is designed not to touch the user’s skin for greater comfort. The mask also comes with a built-in microphone with Bluetooth support for wireless communication between other VR headset users, and is quite useful for inter-game chatting features.
As for the key features of the mask, FeelReal comes equipped with various effect mechanisms: a vibro engine for adjustable vibration effects, two windflow generators with micro-coolers and micro-heaters that provide the cold and hot air effects, an ultrasonic ionizing system for water mist effects, and an odor generator with removable odor cartridges containing up to 7 unique smells. It can last up to 4 hours of continuous usage, powered by a rechargeable built-in battery.
FeelReal supports VR headsets like the Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear VR, Sony Project Morpheus, and the Zeiss VR One.
Currently, the FeelReal mask is offered to developers as a development kit. The kit offers developers the opportunity to deliver different smell and sense effects based on their developed content. It is now available for pre-order on the FeelReal website, and it is priced at $299. Pre-ordered kits are expected to be delivered later in the summer this year.
For more information on the FeelReal mask, please visit the following websites:
http://feelreal.com
http://www.theverge.com/2015/3/6/8159983/feelreal-smellovision-virtual-reality-mask
http://www.cinemablend.com/games/FeelReal-An-Oculus-Rift-Add-Lets-You-Smell-Virtual-Reality-70580.html
