There are quite a few companies working on the issue of tracking users whilst they’re in virtual reality (VR). These range from already available systems for both consumer and enterprise use, like those found on Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, as well as newer inside-out tracking on upcoming devices such as Oculus Quest. During CES 2019 Russian company AntiLatency showcased its take on the industry, demoing a tracking solution that was modular. To find out more VRFocus spoke with CEO and co-founder Andrey Desyatov.
The AntiLatency positional tracking system uses a small swappable tracking device called ALT, which attaches to headsets, arms, hands, peripherals, basically anything that you might want tracked in conjunction with active infrared markers placed on reference points to create an IR pattern. In comparison, the HTC Vive Tracker is much larger, heavier, but doesn’t need the markers due to the external lighthouse sensors – it’s not as easily scalable as AntiLatency.
Designed to be used with mobile headsets like Oculus Go – which it was being demoed with – the ALT module weighs in at only 12 g, has a 2ms latency, takes 2000 positional measurements per second, has a 240-degree field of view (FoV), is completely wireless and has a max tracking area of 10,000 m2.
It’ll also support multiplayer, with no actual limit any number of users can employ the system in the same environment, each using different headsets if they so choose.
In the interview, Desyatov goes into more detail regarding AntiLatency’s features, revealing it can also be used for augmented reality (AR). By attaching the module to a device like a tablet, users without a VR headset can view and walk around the digital environment.
Having been founded in 2016, AntiLatency first won an international startup grand-prix hosted by GoTech that same year, going on to raise $2.1 million USD of investment in 2017. ALT is already available to pre-order, with the module retailing for $100 each, whilst the IR floor is $25 per square meter. Shipments will then begin in March 2019.
VRFocus will continue with its coverage of AntiLatency as its tracking system begins to find its way to market. For further CES 2019 interviews, keep reading VRFocus.