Back-mounted PC is going to be the new trend of virtual reality gaming as MSI unveils the new version of VR One. This backpack PC is made in collaboration with HTC VIVE for VR optimized gaming experience.
MSI introduced the prototype at Computex event in June but the finished VR One is even more gorgeous, according to Windows Central. In Computex, MSI presented the backpack VR prototype that weighs 10 pounds. Skeptics also noticed too much noise from the engine and short battery life.
Fast forward to three months, MSI resolved these issues and presented the finished product. VR One evolved as the "lightest and thinnest VR backpack," boasting current weight at almost 8 pounds only. Dual battery packs were employed for almost two hours playing time with capability of hot swapping for extended demand. To address the noise issue, VR One have dual cooling fan with 9 heat pipes for better ventilation.
MSI not only managed to make VR One back-friendly because of paperweight design but collaboration with HTC Vive made the machine VR games specific, Engadget said. Another bonus feature is support for 90fps via HDMI, Thunderbolt 3 and MiniDisplay port. There are also four USB ports which are all 3.0 for high speed demand of other accessories.
MSI is not the first to venture the wearable PC possibility. HP and Alienware have thought of the idea upon arrival of VR headsets. Theoretically, building a wearable PC is not the most difficult challenge but deciding what VR specific parts should be employed. The primary reason for development of wearable PC for VR gaming is overcoming risks of getting entangled in several connecting cables and tethering when using a traditional machine.
There is no release date yet for VR One but MSI emphasized that D-day is going to be before the end of the year so stay tuned for future updates at GamenGuide.
