Oculus VR is aiming for official sale of its Rift head-mounted display (HMD) in 1Q16, with pre-orders opening shortly after the new year. This launch is delayed from initial (moving) targets, but will coincide with the 2Q16 HTC/Valve “Vive” HMD product and ensure a competitive space on day-one.
The official Oculus VR controller, meant to accompany the Rift for ideal play in virtual environments, was just pushed back further into 2016. The “Oculus Touch” controller is now looking at a 2H16 launch window, something the company attributes to “advances in ergonomics” and comfort. In its official blog post on the delay, Oculus VR noted:
“On the path to perfecting Touch, we’ve decided that we need more time before release, and we’ll now be shipping Touch in the second half of 2016. Pre-orders will open a few months prior to launch.
Rift remains on schedule to ship in Q1 with pre-orders launching very soon.
On Touch hardware, we’ve made significant advances in ergonomics, and we’re implementing many changes that make Touch even more comfortable, reliable, and natural. We’re also implementing changes that improve hand pose recognition.”
Oculus VR underscores the high points here, including additional developer shipments with thanks to the longer pre-launch window.
Oculus Rift will be available for pre-order shortly.
- Steve "Lelldorianx" Burke.