# Automatic VR Trackers The HTC Vive Tracker Turns Everyday Objects into VR Peripherals at CES 2017 By Joey Haar | Published 2017-01-06 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/htc-vive-tracker References: [theverge](http://www.theverge.com/2017/1/6/14180834/htc-vive-tracker-shooter-fire-baseball-hands-on-ces-2017) & [vive](https://www.vive.com/eu/vive-tracker/) In itself, the [HTC](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vive-focus-3) Vive Tracker doesn't seem too impressive; the palm-sized device looks like a technologically advanced snow globe stand -- but it's really so much more. The VR peripheral connects to the HTC Vive to turn everyday objects into functional tools inside [virtual reality experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/omni-one-core), eliminating the need for [purpose-built, game-specific peripherals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cogito-concept). One of the most entertaining demo games current compatible with the HTC Vive Tracker is a baseball simulator. In the game, users step up to the virtual plate to take some swings. Rather than just swinging wildly with the normal Vive controller, though, players can attach the HTC Vive Tracker to a real baseball bat. The Tracker can register the entirety of the bat simply by being attached at the knob, giving a real feel to the simulation. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.9/10 - Popularity: 61% | Activity: 48% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Virtual Reality Integration:** The rise of VR peripherals, like the HTC Vive Tracker, opens up opportunities for integrating virtual reality experiences into everyday objects. - **Non-gaming Applications:** The use of VR trackers beyond gaming, such as in sports or professional training, presents disruptive innovation opportunities in various industries. - **Enhanced User Immersion:** The ability to attach VR trackers to real objects, like baseball bats, enhances the user's immersion in virtual reality simulations. ### Who This Affects Most - **Gaming:** The gaming industry can benefit from the expansion of VR peripherals, as it allows for more dynamic and immersive gaming experiences. - **Sports:** The sports industry can explore the use of VR trackers to enhance training programs and provide realistic simulations for athletes. - **Education:** Incorporating VR trackers into educational programs can revolutionize the way students learn, enabling interactive and immersive learning experiences. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Virtual Reality Wrist Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vive-wrist-vr-tracker.md) - [Wireless Portable VR Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vive-focus-3.md) - [Wireless Full-Body Tracking Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/haritorax.md) - [Finger-Tracking VR Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yubitora.md) - [Lightweight Full-Body Tracking Wearables](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/slimevr.md) - [Responsive Feedback VR Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/haptic-vr-controller.md) - [Industry-Leading VR Headsets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vive-focus-vision.md) - [Full-Body Motion-Tracking Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/refract-technologies.md) - [Goggle-Shaped VR Headsets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/htc-2.md)