Intel has always been a major player in the world of computer technology. One of their more intriguing initiatives is known as WiGig. This hardware is designed to bring multi-gigabit WiFi to electronic devices near you. Unfortunately, virtually all of the company’s efforts in this regard will be discontinued. However, the company is refocusing this initiative to impact virtual reality. As a result, wireless VR may be coming a lot sooner than people would expect.
Wireless VR is no Longer a Utopian Dream
For the longest time, VR users have been looking for wireless solutions. While some headsets have accessories to make this possible an industry-wide standard needs to be created. Intel may be the one providing exactly that, as the company will focus all of its WiGig initiative’s focus on wireless VR moving forward. This does mean we won’t see multi-gigabit WiFi speeds for laptops or other mobile devices anytime soon, but it is a small price to pay.
This sudden change of direction by Intel comes as a big surprise to many technology experts. After all, it seemed the company was on the right track with their WiGig hardware. Now that all divisions will be wound down by the end of this year, a new chapter can begin. Focusing on wireless VR technology is the next objective for the technology giant. A bold venture, especially when considering how VR still struggles to convince consumers of its actual value.
WiGig uses the 60GHZ band to send data at speeds of up to 8Gbps.That is more than enough to effectively render VR games and apps in a wireless fashion, assuming the host computer can effectively provide enough computing power to properly render graphics. It will be interesting to see how Intel fares in the world of virtual reality with this wireless technology. There is no lack of demand for wireless solutions, mind you. However, it may take years until the new standard becomes the norm as far as VR headsets are concerned.
All things considered, this is a big development for the VR industry as a whole. Whether or not wireless VR will make a big impact, remains to be determined. After all, if virtual reality fails to gain more traction, these efforts may be somewhat in vain. Then again, it is certainly possible this technology will be compatible with augmented and mixed reality hardware in the future. An interesting development in the world of wireless gaming, that much is certain.
If you liked this article make sure to follow us on twitter @thevrbase and subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date with the latest VR trends and news.
