Shiftall, the innovative Japanese company known for the MeganeX PC VR headsets, had something exciting to unveil at CES 2025. They’ve introduced two intriguing new VR controller accessories: one is a SteamVR-compatible controller designed for PC VR, and the other is a clever attachment for Quest Touch controllers that adds a scroll wheel and a few extra buttons.
### GripVR
Let’s dive into the first of these devices, the GripVR. This new controller is crafted for the SteamVR Tracking systems (both 1.0 and 2.0) and boasts a familiar button layout. It includes all the essentials: AB/XY input buttons, pressable joysticks, and both triggers and grips. What’s really neat is the incorporation of capacitive touch sensors, elevating user interaction.
One of GripVR’s selling points is its impressive eight-hour battery life, conveniently rechargeable via a USB Type-C port. It’s designed to seamlessly integrate with a variety of SteamVR headsets, including the Valve Index and HTC Vive, not to mention Shiftall’s own lightweight MeganeX “8K”.
The GripVR is slated to hit the market this summer, with an anticipated price range between $299 and $399.
### AddCon
Now, turning our attention to AddCon. This clever new add-on is designed for the left-hand Touch controllers of Quest 3/3S/Pro. It brings to the table a scroll wheel and extra buttons, enhancing the controller’s functionality. This is especially handy for tackling 2D user interfaces and navigating VRChat controls with more ease.
One standout feature of AddCon is its shift function, courtesy of an embedded capacitive sensor on the pinky finger rest. This nifty addition allows users to toggle between different command sets with ease.
Shiftall foresees AddCon being a hit among VR users who crave more control options for their applications. Whether it’s tweaking camera settings or managing avatar functions in VRChat, AddCon rises to the occasion with over 14 assignable inputs. Users can configure these inputs through a dedicated PC application, which doubles as an OSC command transmission tool for standalone VRChat use.
AddCon hooks up to Quest via Bluetooth LE or a GX6/GX2 dongle, and like its counterpart, it charges via a USB Type-C port. It’s also targeting a summer release, with a tag price set at $69 for the single left-hand Touch accessory.
This announcement builds on last year’s news of their upcoming MeganeX superlight “8K” PC VR headset, which is expected to ship in early 2025 for $1,899. This headset, made for SteamVR, features a sleek and lightweight design, equipped with dual 4K high-resolution OLED panels.
It’s worth pointing out that, as with some marketing terms in this industry, the “8K” label used for MeganeX is a bit of a stretch. The reality is, the headset is fitted with dual OLEDs that measure 3,552 × 3,840. Nonetheless, it’s an exciting development in VR technology.
