Overclockers UK and Scan Computers International also named as partners for new VR headset, which goes on display in store today (March 17)
Dixons Carphone will begin stocking HTC’s new Virtual Reality headset, the Vive: Consumer Edition, as the Taiwanese manufacturer unveiled its selected retail headsets.
The Vive, which HTC has launched in partnership with Valve, will be available for hands-on demonstrations and pre orders in Currys/PC World stores in Leeds, Reading and Tottenham Court Road in London from today (March 17). It will also go on sale in PC sellers Overclockers International in Newcastle-under-Lyme and Scan Computers International Ltd, Bolton.
HTC claims reception for the Vive has been really positive, with more than 15,000 pre-orders in under 10 minutes when it was put up for pre-order on March 1.
HTC VP for VR in Europe Peter Frolund said, “Through our partnerships with the UK’s leading consumer electronic retailers, we’re thrilled to offer the public additional avenues to experience and pre-order ViveTM at in-store locations nationwide.
“What truly brings ViveTM to life is trying it first hand, and we can’t wait to bring this opportunity to as many consumers as possible.”
The Vive costs £689, which comes with two wireless VR controllers, room scale movement, and HMD featuring a built in camera. As a limited time offer, it also ships with three VR experiences:Tilt Brush (Google), Fantastic Contraption (Northway Games in collaboration with Radial Games) and Job Simulator: The 2050 Archives (Owlchemy Labs).
Mobile News TV was given a demonstration of the Vive at Mobile World Congress. Check it out here