Virtuix’s VR Treadmill Set to Launch This September

Exciting times are here for fans of VR motion peripherals. Just as Roto VR rolled out its $799 spinning game chair, Virtuix has also dropped some big news: their long-awaited Omni One VR treadmill is finally hitting the market on September 10. This announcement is a major milestone, especially considering that it’s been over ten years in the making. At $2,595 plus shipping, it’s not just a piece of tech; it’s a decade-long dream coming to life.

I recall writing an article with the headline, “A decade later, this VR treadmill is finally ready to ship,” back on April 3 last year. The tech world can be a whirlwind at times, with innovations popping up at lightning speed. Yet, there are moments it seems to drag, especially for hardware startups, which often run on their own slower timeline.

Over the years, Virtuix has generated considerable buzz around its innovative approach. In VR, simulating movement while standing still is a puzzle many have yet to solve, as it often leads to the pesky problem of motion sickness.

During Virtuix’s journey, the tech landscape has shifted with growing interest in mixed reality, driven by players like Oculus/Meta, HTC, and now Apple. The company has garnered an impressive $40 million in funding, a mix of venture capital and private investments. The Omni One even snagged a spotlight moment as the inspiration for a similar device in Steven Spielberg’s film adaptation of “Ready Player One.”

The beauty of the Omni One lies in its simplicity. Unlike mechanical treadmills, it relies on a more passive design. You strap on special shoes and glide effortlessly over a concave base, creating an imaginative walking experience.

“With our launch date anchored for September 10, we’re thrilled to invite gamers into the Omni One community,” CEO Jan Goetgeluk shared in a press release. “The enthusiastic feedback from our beta testers has fueled our anticipation, and we’re excited to redefine the gaming experience for all.”

So far, Virtuix has sold 3,000 units during the Omni One’s preorder phase, signaling strong interest and excitement for this long-awaited VR innovation.