This virtual reality headset extra enables wearers to engage all their senses. From Japanese startup VAQSO, Vaqso VR is an experience-enhancing scent device for VR headsets that emits realistic smelling odors that match what the wearer is seeing. The Snickers bar-sized add-on can be attached to the bottom of any binocular head-mounted display (including Oculus VR, Playstation VR and Vive) with a supplied cradle.
The compact and wireless scent-creating device has a battery that lasts 2 hours and can be charged via USB cable. Fragrances such as fried chicken and gun powder smoke can last up to one month. The scents can also be regulated according to the VR environment.
VAQSO recently secured funding to mass produce their headset extra and bring it to the global consumer market in 2018.
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Enhanced VR Scent Experience
- Opportunity to create immersive virtual reality experiences by incorporating realistic smelling odors.
- Wearable Scent Technology
- Potential for wearable devices that emit various scents to enhance sensory experiences.
- Scent-matching VR Content
- The possibility of creating VR content that is synchronized with specific scents to create more realistic and engaging experiences.
Sectors Adopting This
- Virtual Reality
- Disruptive innovation opportunity lies in the development of scent-enabled VR headsets and content.
- Scent Technology
- The fragrance industry could diversify into creating scents specifically designed for use in virtual reality experiences.
- Gaming
- Innovations in scent-emitting devices for VR headsets can revolutionize the gaming industry by adding a new dimension to gameplay.
