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Were at CES 2023 in Las Vegas, and as VR approaches the mainstream, we’re seeing tons of accessories to help players have fun in the so-called “metaverse.” Shiftall is a VR accessory and device maker that has solved some interesting problems for users who want to spend some serious time in virtual reality, such as how do you stay hydrated without dropping the virtual ball? Or how do you keep your VR sessions private when you can’t see who’s around to listen?
Shiftall’s FlipVR controller relies on the Lighthouse technology used with VR headsets like the Valve Index and the HTC Vive Pro 2. Lighthouse trackers are modular systems, and Shiftall has come up with a unique way to attach a Lighthouse tracker to a handheld controller that flips out of the way when you want to use your opposable thumb.
The controller flips over in an instant and you can grab a bottle of water or start typing on a keyboard. Flip the controller back for quick access to the thumbstick and buttons.
We got a chance to watch one of Shiftall’s experts navigate a metaspace while flipping a bottle of water from hand to hand. Honestly, the device seemed a bit over the top, and there’s a lot of stuff lying around.
But it also looks fun – and with some practice, the dance of activating the controls and flipping for a sip of coffee can add an interesting new level of interactivity, if it works properly. There’s a definite nunchaku element to the gear, though, and we can worry about collateral damage.
The Shiftall Mutalk makes your speaking voice a whisper
In addition to the FlipVR controller, Shiftall has an intriguing new microphone for VR users that could provide a little more privacy in the virtual space. The Mutalk microphone attaches to your head and looks like a VR headset for your mouth. There are no cameras inside, just a microphone that connects via Bluetooth. The goal is to keep your voice down so no one around can hear you.
It actually works very well. The Shiftall demo performer was effectively muffled as he strapped the Mutalk microphone to his face as he roared to the crowd. Shiftall says the Mutalk mic cuts the sound of your voice by -30dB to outsiders; that’s the difference between a whisper and a soft, conversational voice.
If you’ve used VR, you’ve probably been nervous about what happens in the real world outside of your virtual realm. Wondering if someone is stalking you or eavesdropping on your virtual chats is a real concern for players.
The Mutalk device is a bit big and flashy, but it solves an interesting problem. At the moment, there are not many popular social apps in VR to get together with friends, but as they become more popular, a privacy microphone can help users to open up more and enjoy the virtual world more freely.
The Mutalk mic even works with your phone alongside VR headsets – so if you’re looking for a more personal solution for making calls, and don’t mind a little VR-style mount attached to your face, while you chat, you can buy a Mutalk headset to use when you’re on the phone.
These devices are still in development, so pricing and availability have yet to be announced. Check back often for the latest updates on the cool VR gear we’re seeing at CES 2023 in Las Vegas.
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