Explanation
A family of virtual reality headsets developed by HTC, launched in 2016 in partnership with Valve. The range covers consumer (Vive, Vive Cosmos), professional (Vive Pro, Vive Focus), and ultra-high-end (Vive XR Elite) segments. Known for tracking quality and its professional ecosystem.
Real-world example
A company equips its training room with HTC Vive Pro 2 headsets for industrial simulations requiring precise tracking.
Practical applications
- Professional training with precise hand and body tracking
- Architectural or industrial project review in high-definition immersion
- Occupational gesture simulation with 6DoF controllers
- Remote collaboration in a shared virtual environment
Vive product lines
Tethered headsets (PC VR)
- Vive Pro 2: 5K resolution, precise SteamVR tracking
- Designed for demanding professional use
- Require a powerful PC and external base stations
Example: A training center installs 10 Vive Pro 2 headsets for industrial maintenance exercises
Standalone headsets
- Vive Focus 3: standalone 6DoF headset aimed at enterprise
- Vive XR Elite: compact headset with color passthrough
- Vive Flow: lightweight VR glasses for wellness and productivity
Example: Sales representatives use the Vive Focus 3 on the road for client demos without a PC
VR scenario
A manufacturer deploys Vive Focus 3 headsets in its factories with the EasyStory 360 platform. Technicians follow guided VR training paths, managed from a tablet by the trainer who sees in real time what each trainee is doing inside the headset.
Why it matters in professional VR
- Pioneer of consumer VR alongside Valve, having popularized room-scale
- Complete professional ecosystem with fleet management (Vive Business)
- Broad compatibility with VR content platforms including EasyStory 360