Sharp Opens Pre-Registration for Prototype VR Haptic Controller

• Sharp is accepting early sign-ups for a dual-hand VR haptic controller that enables users to feel objects in virtual environments.
• The device uses fingertip electrodes to simulate tactile sensations and includes standard buttons and sticks for traditional controls.

Sharp has opened pre-registration for a VR haptic controller that delivers fingertip sensations without relying on glove-based designs. Still in development, the project will use sign-ups to guide future improvements.

The controller uses segmented electrodes on each fingertip to simulate different tactile patterns, so users can feel textures like smooth or rough surfaces. Sharp says users will be able to create haptic data with regular image editing tools, not just custom software, and bring it into VR using common game engines. It also has sticks and buttons for standard movement and input.

While the product aims to deliver tactile sensations to all ten fingertips, the final design may change based on user feedback. It currently does not support detailed finger tracking, force feedback, or temperature simulation. The company warns that development could be discontinued, and pre-registrants may be contacted for surveys to guide the process.

🌀 Tom’s Take:

Sharp is taking a unique approach to hardware development, building the device openly and involving customers from the very early stages. The goal is to utilize customer feedback to inform the product roadmap, aiming to deliver a device that achieves immediate market fit. This will especially resonate with existing VR users who are looking to take their immersive experience to the next level.

Source: Sharp Corporation