VR startup OWO has developed sleeves that provide haptic feedback to a gamer’s arms. The OWO sleeves are compatible with the company’s haptic t-shirt, the OWO skin, which is currently available for pre-order. Combined, the two devices let you feel the actions you take within VR games.
OWO describes the OWO Sleeves as “the perfect complement for gamers to interact with their environment.”
“Rather than passively experiencing the virtual world, your arms will receive every sensation and, if you want, move involuntarily, adding an immersive component to all virtual environments,” says OWO in a press release.
OWO Sleeves Win the CES Innovation Award
The sleeves won this year’s CES Innovation Award and utilize Bluetooth tech to allow for flexible movement. Made of lycra fabric and weighing under 6.4 ounces, the device has a battery life of up to eight hours. Every game compatible with the OWO Skin is also compatible with the OWO Sleeves. Games compatible with the haptic shirt and sleeves include Bone Lab, League of Legends, Rocket League and Arizona Sunshine.
“Participate in a tennis match, go on a relaxing fishing trip or engage in a fierce sword fight,” OWO adds. “Rather than passively experiencing the virtual world, your arms will receive every sensation and, if you want, move involuntarily, adding an immersive component to all virtual environments.”
While the sleeves are not yet available for purchase, the OWO Founder Limited Edition of the company’s Haptic Gaming System is available for pre-order. However, as of writing this article, only a few of the 2000 limited edition units are still available.
Making VR Feel More Real
With consumers now having access to VR headsets, many brands are attempting to make virtual reality games even more immersive. Similarly to the OWO Sleeves and haptic shirt, HapticX is developing a full-body haptic suit to let users feel the metaverse. Meta acquired haptic startup Lofelt in September. Additionally, other companies, like Virtux, are focusing on deepening immersion with Omni-directional VR treadmills.
Jack Brassell is a freelance journalist and aspiring novelist. Jack is a self-proclaimed nerd with a lifelong passion for storytelling. As an author, Jack writes mostly horror and young adult fantasy. Also an avid gamer, she works as the lead news editor at Hardcore Droid. When she isn't writing or playing games, she can often be found binge-watching Parks & Rec or The Office, proudly considering herself to be a cross between Leslie Knope and Pam Beasley.
