What's Happening?
SlimeVR has initiated a new crowdfunding campaign to support the development of its next-generation 'Butterfly' body trackers. These trackers are designed to be thinner, lighter, and offer extended battery life compared to previous models. The campaign, which began on February 9th, has already surpassed its $180,000 funding goal, reaching over $347,000 from nearly 760 backers. The Butterfly Trackers utilize the same IMU-based technology as the original SlimeVR Full-Body Tracker, allowing VR users to articulate their avatars without external sensors. A significant innovation in the new model is the use of a custom 2.4 GHz dongle instead of Wi-Fi, contributing to the reduced size and weight of the trackers. Each tracker is estimated to last up to 48
hours on a single charge. The trackers are compatible with various standalone headsets, including Meta Quest and SteamVR. The campaign offers a 'Core Set Bundle' of six Butterfly Trackers for $279, with an expected shipping date of August 31, 2026.
Why It's Important?
The launch of SlimeVR's Butterfly Trackers represents a significant advancement in VR technology, particularly in the realm of full-body tracking. By making the trackers thinner and lighter, SlimeVR is addressing user demand for more comfortable and practical VR experiences. The extended battery life enhances usability for applications such as motion capture and VTubing, potentially broadening the market for VR technology. This development could influence the VR industry by setting new standards for device portability and battery efficiency. Additionally, the successful crowdfunding campaign indicates strong consumer interest and confidence in SlimeVR's products, which could encourage further innovation and investment in the VR sector.
What's Next?
As the crowdfunding campaign continues until March 19th, SlimeVR is likely to focus on meeting production and shipping timelines to fulfill backer orders by the projected date of August 31, 2026. The company may also explore additional features or improvements based on backer feedback and market trends. The success of this campaign could lead to further product development and potential partnerships with VR headset manufacturers to enhance compatibility and integration. Industry observers will be watching to see how SlimeVR's innovations influence competitors and the broader VR market.
