Open Source Virtual Reality
![]() OSVR Hacker Developer Kit 1.4 | |
Name | OSVR Hacker Developer Kit (HDK) |
---|---|
Type | Virtual reality headset |
Manufacturer | Razer |
Designed by | Sensics and Razer |
Display Technology | OLED |
Resolution | 1200x1080 per eye[1] |
Head Tracking | 6DOF (3-axis rotational tracking + 3-axis positional tracking) |
Platforms | Microsoft Windows, macOS, Android and Linux |
Connection | 2x USB 3.0, HDMI, Audio out |
Website | Official website |
Open Source Virtual Reality (OSVR) is an open-source software project that aims to enable headsets and game controllers from all vendors to be used with any games. It is also a virtual reality headset that claims to be open-source hardware using the OSVR software.[2] However, as of October 2016 electrical hardware and firmware source files have not yet been made available.[3] The hardware source files that have been released so far are under a proprietary, source-available license.[4]
The headset is developed by Razer and Sensics.
The first model of the headset was introduced on January 2015 in CES.[5] Shipping to select developers started on July 2015.[6] Pre-ordering was opened to the general public by October and shipping started by November 2015.[7]
Project information
OSVR has two main and independent parts: open-source hardware and open-source software.
The hardware consist of virtual reality goggles called the Hacker Development Kit.
The open source software platform allows virtual reality developers to detect, configure and operate virtual reality devices across a wide range of operating systems. It is provided under the Apache 2.0 license.
The project is primarily sponsored by Razer Inc. and Sensics. Partners in the project include game developers Ubisoft and hardware manufacturers Vuzix.[8]
OSVR has requested help with creating Android Daydream VR Plugin.[9]
Games
Some of the games with the support of OSVR:[10][11]
- 3rd Planet
- Chess Ultra[12]
- Elite Dangerous[13]
- Hellicott City
- M.A.R.S. Extraction* Mythgreen VR
- Pollen
- PongVR
- Project Cars[14]
- Ready Driver One
- Skyworld
- Supreme Craft Lite VR
- The Vanishing of Ethan Carter VR[15]
- TVRD - Tower VR Defence
- Urban Forces: Multiplayer FPS
- VirtualRealPorn
- War Thunder
- World of Diving
See also
- OpenVR, a library with similar goals (though not open-sourced) by Valve
- Zero Latency VR, a location based entertainment company that provides Free Roam Virtual Reality (FRVR) solutions using modied OSVR HMD's.
References
- ^ Mah Ung, Gordon (2015-01-06). "Razer's open-source headset aims to disrupt virtual reality". PCWorld. Retrieved 17 June 2015.
- ^ Stein, Scott (2015-01-06). "Meet Razer's OSVR Hacker Dev Kit, the 'open-source' hackable VR headset". CNET. Retrieved 17 June 2015.
- ^ "Sources for MCU binaries? #2". Github. Retrieved 30 September 2016.
- ^ The license as laid out in the HDK repository README explicitly excludes rights required for OSI compliance (updated 4 April 2025)
- ^ "Razer OSVR headset hands-on: a platform, not a competitor". SlashGear. January 6, 2015.
- ^ "OSVR Hacker Kits Have Started Shipping". Tom's Hardware. July 8, 2015.
- ^ "Public pre-orders for Razer's OSVR headset are now open". Digital Trends. October 26, 2015.
- ^ Prasuethsut, Lily (2015-03-05). "Razer updates OSVR virtual reality headset". TechRadar. Retrieved 17 June 2015.
- ^ "Help wanted: Google VR SDK Plugin".
- ^ Charara, Sophie (May 9, 2016). "The OSVR apps, games and experiences to download". Wareable. Retrieved September 30, 2016.
- ^ "TopGameswith OSVR (Open-Source Virtual Reality) support". itch.io. Retrieved September 30, 2016.
- ^ "Chess Ultra Steam page".
- ^ "Elite Dangerous Steam page".
- ^ "Project Cars Steam page".
- ^ "The Vanishing of Ethan Carter VR Steam page".