New VR Controller for PS5

The new VR controller aims in achieving a much deeper sense of presence and stronger feeling of immersion in VR experiences. It builds upon the DualSense wireless controller by unlocking a new way to tap into the sense of touch. The controller is ergonomic by applying learnings from testing users with a range of hand sizes, as well as the decades of insights from controllers across all PlayStation platforms. There are several features, including key features from the DualSense controller.

Each VR controller includes an adaptive trigger button that adds palpable tension when pressed, like what is found in the DualSense controller. The new controller will have haptic feedback optimized for its form factor, making every sensation in the game world more impactful, textured and nuanced. It can detect fingers without any pressing in the areas where thumb, index, or middle fingers are placed. The VR controller is tracked by the new VR headset through a tracking ring across the bottom of the controller.

More information:

https://blog.playstation.com/2021/03/18/next-gen-vr-on-ps5-the-new-controller/

Vive Facial Tracker Should Work with Other Headsets

Last week HTC announced a new accessory, the Vive Facial Tracker. Though the device is designed to mount to the Vive Pro, it turns out it is technically compatible with other PC VR headsets, provided you can find a way to mount it in the right spot. HTC’s new Vive Facial Tracker accessory promises to track 38 facial movements across the lips, jaw, teeth, tongue, chin, and cheeks.

When the company introduced the device, it only announced compatibility with its Vive Pro line of headsets. Apparently, the headset can technically work with any PC VR headset. The Vive Facial Tracker ought to work with any PC VR headset if you can find a way to mount the tracker to offer a good view of your mouth. The company is not guaranteeing the product will work well with other headsets.

More information:

https://www.roadtovr.com/vive-facial-tracker-valve-index-pc-vr-headsets/

BCI Generates Personally Attractive Images

Researchers at the University of Helsinki and University of Copenhagen have succeeded in making an AI understand our subjective notions of what makes faces attractive. The device demonstrated this knowledge by its ability to create new portraits on its own that were tailored to be found personally attractive to individuals. The results can be utilised, for example, in modelling preferences and decision-making as well as potentially identifying unconscious attitudes.

Researchers investigated whether a computer would be able to identify the facial features we consider attractive and, based on this, create new images matching our criteria. The researchers used artificial intelligence to interpret brain signals and combined the resulting brain-computer interface with a generative model of artificial faces. This enabled the computer to create facial images that appealed to individual preferences.

More information:

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2021-03/uoh-bii030221.php