HTC Vive introduced its Wireless VR Adapter at the Gamescon exhibition in Cologne, Germany, yesterday.

HTC Vive introduces wireless virtual reality adapter

A statement from Vive said the adapter’s installation is quick and easy, "attaching a sensor from the PC that broadcasts to and from the new wireless Vive headset."

The base adapter works with both Vive and Vive Pro, however, Vive Pro owners will need an additional compatibility pack with a unique connection cable for the Vive Pro, as well as foam padding and an attachment device unique to Vive Pro.

"Since the launch of Vive, we have been figuring out how to bring a wireless experience to premium VR and it has also been a request from our consumers and enterprise customers," said Paul Brown, general manager of Vive Europe.

"We've listened to this feedback and are proud to collaborate with our talented partners, Intel and Displaylink to deliver the Vive Wireless Adapter. Combining high quality, low latency and ease of use, the adapter delivers on our promise of premium wireless VR."

While there has been a tendency for operators to add home gaming VR set-ups to their arcades and FECs, those who specialise in location-based VR argue that this isn’t enough to justify an out-of-home offering. Many of these suppliers use wares like Vive’s to produce a turnkey solution. Those offering such solutions include Hologate, VRstudios, Zero Latency and De VR Arcade.

Several operators have hailed wireless as the future of VR, saying it will do for the format what wireless did for the telephone phone, making the VR experience more akin to paintballing or laser tag, rather than a single person amusement.

Sander Bos, founder of De VR Arcade, said: “Wireless is the Holy Grail of VR.”

Customers can pre-order the product on September 5 and it will be available to buy on September 24.