The 'KAT Loco' Allows Users to Walk in VR Without a Treadmill
Colin Smith — February 14, 2022 — Tech
References: kat-vr & kickstarter
The 'KAT Loco' from 'KAT VR,' a virtual reality technology solutions company, allows users to walk in virtual reality without the need for an omnidirectional treadmill. This Kickstarter campaign originally launched in 2019, and as of 2022, it has raised more than $180,000, nearly quadrupling its funding goal. This device is now available to the public and has been updated with a variety of features in December of 2021.
At its inception, the KAT Loco was meant to only be a locomotive solution for movement while standing and using a PC VR headset. Now, the device works with 'PSVR,' mobile VR devices such as the 'Meta Quest 2,' and even boasts compatibility with non-VR devices, such as a regular PC. In this mode, players can still use their mouse and keyboard while moving in the game with a KAT Loco attached to their legs.
True locomotion in virtual reality has been a large barrier to complete immersion and reality simulation since the inception of VR headsets due to the large cost and spacious size of omnidirectional treadmills. The KAT Loco addresses each of these barriers.
Image Credit: KAT VR
At its inception, the KAT Loco was meant to only be a locomotive solution for movement while standing and using a PC VR headset. Now, the device works with 'PSVR,' mobile VR devices such as the 'Meta Quest 2,' and even boasts compatibility with non-VR devices, such as a regular PC. In this mode, players can still use their mouse and keyboard while moving in the game with a KAT Loco attached to their legs.
True locomotion in virtual reality has been a large barrier to complete immersion and reality simulation since the inception of VR headsets due to the large cost and spacious size of omnidirectional treadmills. The KAT Loco addresses each of these barriers.
Image Credit: KAT VR
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Reality Locomotion - The KAT Loco allows users to achieve true virtual reality locomotion without the need for a treadmill, opening up opportunities for even more immersive VR experiences.
2. Plug-and-play VR Tech - The KAT Loco's compatibility with various VR and non-VR devices allows for easy integration into existing setups and opens up possibilities for more accessible and widespread VR use.
3. Crowdfunding for VR Innovation - The success of the KAT Loco's Kickstarter campaign demonstrates the potential for crowdfunding to fuel further innovation in the virtual reality industry.
Industry Implications
1. Virtual Reality - The KAT Loco is disrupting the virtual reality industry by offering a more affordable and accessible locomotion solution.
2. Gaming - The KAT Loco's compatibility with gaming devices and applications presents a disruptive opportunity for the gaming industry to create more immersive and engaging experiences.
3. Crowdfunding - The KAT Loco's successful crowdfunding campaign showcases the potential for disruptive innovation in the crowdfunding industry, particularly in the technology and gaming sectors.
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