Last month HTC launched its Viveport content store for its Vive head-mounted display (HMD). An alternative to platforms such as Steam, Viveport is essentially HTC’s version of Oculus Home for the Rift. Today at the joint Developer Forum of Alibaba Cloud’s annual Computing Conference, HTC has announced the closed beta release of Viveport M, a mobile focused addition.
Viveport M is currently only available to mobile developers, but its purpose will be to allow users to more easily find and use high-quality mobile VR apps and 360-degree videos in both touchscreen and virtual reality (VR) modes. The beta version is available for download to registered Vive developers via the Viveport backend system, with HTC confirming a consumer version is set to launch later this year, compatible with Android devices.
“Compelling content is the life blood of the burgeoning VR industry, but making great content isn’t easy or cheap,” said Alvin W. Graylin, China Regional President of Vive, HTC. “By expanding Viveport into mobile and offline channels, we are exponentially expanding the user base and revenue opportunities for VR developers around the world. This will give them the funds they need to not only survive but prosper, encouraging the creation of more exciting content.”
That’s not all as HTC has also revealed the upcoming availability of Viveport Arcade, a VR content management and sales platform customized for offline experience centres. The HTC Vive headset is proving to be very popular in the nascent VR arcade industry due to its room scale technology. With this combination of PC, mobile and offline versions of Viveport, it’s covering all bases for a diverse platform portfolio that’ll entice developers looking to reach wider audiences and build revenues.
Viveport Arcade aims to make it easier for VR arcade operators to legally acquire VR content, while the system will allow both operators and developers to accurately share the revenue. Pilot programs have already been put in place across several locations in the last couple of months with the aim of expanding to hundreds of gaming centres, amusement parks and karaoke bars across China and globally.
VRFocus will continue its coverage of Viveport, reporting back with any further announcements.