HTC announced that they’ll be partnering up with Formula 1 (F1) to deliver incredible and epic VR experiences for racing fans around the world. And while that’s special in itself, they are also partnering up with Mclaren to release a one of a kind special edition Vive headset.
“McLaren and HTC both have a long history of disruptive innovation in our respective fields,” said HTC President China, Alvin Wang Graylin. “By joining forces, we will be giving F1 fans new ways to experience and enjoy the sport like never before. The McLaren esports programme will be the first time a real sport has been combined with esports, and now by adding VR to the mix, anyone can realize their dream of being an F1 driver.”
The headset will be Mclaren branded that’s designed for the fans of the company and F1 racing. Mclaren will also be creating joint VR and AR experiences to transform the way fans engage with the team. HTC will become the official VR partner of Mclaren’s esports program and offer the world’s first VR esports competition integrated with a real sport.
“Today’s announcement is a real statement of intent from both McLaren and HTC,” said Zak Brown, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Racing. “We are both committed to using the latest technology to give our fans the most immersive experience possible, short of physically putting them in the car. We will also work together to transform the way VR is used to enhance gaming, creating an experience that enables gamers to feel like one of the world’s best racing drivers.”
“The new partnership between McLaren and HTC speaks to the heart of our digital strategy,” said Rob Bloom, Group Digital Director, McLaren Group. “Through immersive technology, we’re opening up a new channel to unlock the richness and thrill of the McLaren and Formula 1 story to a broad audience, pioneering the use of VR and AR to generate entertaining and engaging fan experiences across our racing and esports programmes.”