One of the main entry barriers to virtual reality is price, and since the HTC Vive launched last year it has maintained a position as the most premium and expensive VR experience. While it’s still the most expensive system, the price has now permanently dropped to $599/£599/€699.
That’s a hefty price cut, coming down from $799/£759/€899, and goes further than the £100 discount for the system’s first anniversary sale. It’s likely that HTC have been feeling pressure from Oculus Rift’s current discounted price, which brings a comparable system to users for £399 during a summer promotion, even if Vive has something of a technological advantage. Despite the price disparity, HTC note that they’ve held roughly 60% of the VR market on Steam since launch.
“Our goal at Vive has always been to offer the best and most advanced VR system and drive mass market adoption for VR across the globe,” said Cher Wang, Chairwoman, HTC. Paul Brown, GM Europe added, “Reducing the price of Vive during a key purchasing season we believe will significantly boost VR adoption to bring in even more consumers and content creators to Vive. We’re focused on delivering both great value together with the best VR experience on the market and we’re excited to lead the way in bringing VR to the mainstream.”
Source: press release
Avenger
I feel like that’s got to bring down Oculus to budget territory and leave the Vive as the sole enthusiasts choice – considering Vive is now only £100 more than Oculus original RRP. It’s definitely a step in the right direction.
Tuffcub
Hey Cher Wang, £599 is not a price to “drive mass market adoption”.
Also you have the most fabulous name and should be a drag queen.