Virtuix Inc., a company based in Austin, has introduced the Omni One, a VR treadmill that allows users to walk, run, jump, and crouch in virtual reality. The futuristic device is designed for easy setup in different locations within the home and can be conveniently folded up for storage, providing an immersive VR experience while saving space.
Compared to Virtuix’s commercial Omni Pro, utilized in over 500 entertainment venues across 45 countries, the Omni One is lighter and more compact, with a diameter of approximately 4 feet. It comes bundled with a Pico Neo 3 Pro and requires no additional hardware or PC setup to operate. Each headset is pre-loaded with the Omni One’s operating software, social features, and proprietary game store.
In an official release, Jan Goetgeluk, founder and CEO of Virtuix, expressed his excitement about the Omni One, stating that it fulfills the company’s original vision of an active VR entertainment system for the home. He also noted that the development process was challenging, mainly due to Covid-19 and supply chain shortages, but the end result was an amazing product.
Virtuix’s commercial products, including the Omni Pro, have already facilitated over 3 million plays at entertainment venues worldwide, creating a dedicated community of over 300,000 registered players. With the launch of the Omni One, the company looks forward to bringing its immersive gaming experience to the homes of its many fans and players.
Virtuix has received applications from 900 of its equity crowdfunding investors for the purchase of beta units of the Omni One, which will be extended until late 2023.
However, the company plans to start small and gradually increase the quantity of units as the program progresses.
Like other parabolic VR treadmills, the Omni One requires users to wear low-friction shoes and a harness system that keeps them in the center of the base’s parabola. Despite being marketed towards consumers, the introductory price of the Omni One is $2,595, which includes the Pico Neo 3 Pro standalone headset and shipping costs. The company is also offering financing options that can lower the monthly cost to $65.
Throughout its history, Virtuix has raised $35 million and has shipped over $16 million worth of products, including over 4,000 Omni Pro systems in 45 countries and more than 70 Omni Arena systems to US venues such as Dave & Buster’s.