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Sony adds PC compatibility to mocopi wearable for 3D VR motion capture

The latest update to the Sony mocopi enables 3D VR motion capture on the PC. (Source: Sony)
The latest update to the Sony mocopi enables 3D VR motion capture on the PC. (Source: Sony)
Sony has added PC compatibility to its mocopi tracker system for 3D VR motion capture. Originally targeted to smartphone users, the new beta feature expands compatibility to laptops and desktops running SteamVR, SlimeVR, and VRChat.

The Sony mocopi wearable was launched in 2023 targeting smartphone users with 6 trackers that could capture motion performances for 3D VR use. Sony's latest update adds PC compatibility so users can capture themselves using laptops and desktop computers.

The mocopi was developed for VR content creators and initially designed to allow full-body motion capture on smartphones to animate virtual avatars for games, online video performances, and more. Color-coded trackers weighing 0.28 ounce (8 grams) and 1.26 inch (3.2 cm) in diameter are worn on the head, hip, wrists, and ankles. 6 sensors inside each tracker monitor angular and motion changes in 3D.

Wireless connection to a smartphone or PC occurs over Bluetooth 5.2. After a quick calibration, creators can begin creating AR/VR entertainment for their fans by simply dancing and moving about to control their avatars up to 10 hours non-stop. The rechargeable battery charges in 1.5 hours.

The beta update is available now and compatible with any PC running SteamVR, SlimeVR, and VRChat. Don't forget to pick up a nice SteamVR-compatible headset (like this one at Amazon).

The Sony mocopi uses 6 lightweight trackers to capture 3D VR performances. (Source: Sony)
The Sony mocopi uses 6 lightweight trackers to capture 3D VR performances. (Source: Sony)

Sony Electronics Announces a significant software update to mocopi, enabling a PC connection for VRChat and adding in workflow improvements for virtual content creation

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Sony Electronics, Inc. 18 Jan, 2024, 12:00 ET

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics Inc. today announced a significant update to mocopi, its popular motion capture system, integrating it with SlimeVR to provide an option for VRChat users to connect through PC. Sony's mocopi system has been at the forefront of mobile virtual reality (VR) technology, known for its ease of use and accessibility.¹ Listening to customer feedback, this update, which is available now, strengthens mocopi's position in mobile VR and establishes mocopi as a key player in the PC-connected VR space, especially for VRChat users who have long sought a lightweight and easy while more stable connection to PC platforms. In addition, this software update includes several upgrades, including integration with a new avatar platform, workflow improvements for content creation and fun enhancements.

mocopi: Now with PC Connection

While mocopi's mobile-first approach² has been widely acclaimed for its ease of setup and use, there has been a growing demand for a robust PC connection option. Responding to user feedback, Sony has now enabled a seamless integration with SlimeVR, allowing users to connect mocopi with a PC ³for improved pose estimation and overall experience in VR spaces. SlimeVR is a full-body tracking solution primarily designed for VR applications running on the SteamVR platform. It offers an efficient way to achieve full-body tracking, enhancing the VR experience by allowing more immersive and interactive gameplay or simulations. This integration ensures that while mocopi retains its mobile accessibility, it now also caters to users seeking a more powerful PC-based setup.

New Avatars & Enhanced Functionality

Upper-Body Focus Mode: Tailored for users concentrating on upper body movements, this mode allows for additional tracking points on specific limbs, enhancing the precision of motion capture.

New Avatar options with Avaturn: Users can now import avatars from Avaturn. This integration with Avaturn is particularly exciting, as it allows users to import a selfie and create a personalized avatar with speed and ease, offering both free and paid versions.

Workflow Improvements for a Smoother Experience

Simultaneous Motion Data Sending and Saving: Brings a new option to save motion data simultaneously while sending it, enhancing workflow efficiency.

Customizable Motion File Names: Before saving, users can rename motion files, moving away from the default automatic naming.

Motion Library Management: Features the ability to delete and rename files in the motion library, as well as a lock function to prevent accidental avatar screen movements.

Fun New Avatar for Enhanced Personalization

Mini RAYNOS-chan Avatar: A pre-installed avatar for immediate use.

To learn more about this recent update, please visit:
www.sony.net/Products/mocopi-dev/en/documents/beta/HowToBetaFunctions_SlimeVR.html

For more information about mocopi, please visit:
electronics.sony.com/more/mocopi/all-mocopi/p/qmss1-uscx

About Sony Electronics Inc.
Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit www.sony.com/news for more information.

Notes:

1. Download mocopi app at Google Play and the App Store. Network services, content, and operating system and software subject to terms and conditions and may be changed, interrupted or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration and credit card information. Use of third-party services or apps may require registration and/or acceptance of a license agreement, privacy policy and other terms and conditions. Sony bears no responsibility for third party websites, services and apps. Features and specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

2. Applicable smartphone models: (Android) Xperia 5 IV, Xperia 1 IV, Xperia 5 III, Xperia 1 III, Xperia 5 II, Xperia 1 II, Xperia 5, Xperia 1, (iPhone) iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE (3rd generation), Android 11 or later / iOS 15.7.1 or later.

3. Reference SteamVR, SlimeVR and VRChat web resources for any PC requirements. mocopi integration will work with any PC that can run SteamVR, SlimeVR and VRChat.

SOURCE Sony Electronics, Inc.

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2024 01 > Sony adds PC compatibility to mocopi wearable for 3D VR motion capture
David Chien, 2024-01-20 (Update: 2024-01-20)