HTC launches the Vive virtual reality headset at MWC 2016 with smartphone integrationMumbai, Feb 22(AZINS) Another player entered the virtual reality fray today, with the launch of the new HTC Vive at the Mobile World Congress in Bacelona. The Vive, which was first announced at MWC 2015, is priced at US $799, with a February 29 preorder date.

The HTC Vive is a head-mounted display unit, and ships with two wireless controllers, two Vive base stations (for motion tracking), a Vive Link Box, and Vive ear buds. The headset also connects to a PC through a cable at the back, and also has a headphone jack for you to plug in your own audio device, though it does have a built-in microphone.

In addition, the Vive also has the added functionality of smartphone support, so you can answer calls, check messages, and view reminders without having to take off the headset. Both Android and iOS are supported for integration.

For now, the HTC Vive is also bundled with two VR games absolutely free: Job Simulator: The 2050 Archives, and Fantastic Contraption. Be warned though, the minimum requirements to use the Vive are not to be overlooked. You're going to need at least a Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 or AMD Raadeon R9 290 GPU to use it on your PC. Thankfully, a few bundles will be available with PC an graphics card manufacturers, just like with the Oculus Rift, to offset some of that cash debit.

The HTC Vive will begin preorders at 10am ET (8:30pm IST) on February 29 in 24 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, and Italy, but that list doesn't yet include India. You can find more about the launch here.