HTC Vive Fitness Tracker In The Works, FCC Listing Reveals

An HTC wearable with Vive branding has passed the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) testing procedures and a listing for the same was revealed on Tuesday. The device has a circular shape, the model number 2PYV100 and two radio frequency antennas for wireless connectivity.

The fact that HTC is getting the device certified by the FCC is an indication that it might be close to being launched, as devices are generally sent to the FCC for approval once the company’s internal testing is complete. An educated guess would place the device’s launch at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona next month.

Could this be the HTC Halfbreak smartwatch that surfaced in photos on Sunday?

The photos showed an Android Wear smartwatch with a circular display, two physical buttons on the right side and a rubber watch strap. Furthermore, the photos showed a heart rate monitor placed at the back of the device which is a common feature on fitness trackers such as the Fitbit Blaze.

The only thing that strikes out is the Vive branding on the device. Vive pertains to HTC’s VR headset — HTC Vive — which was launched last year. If we put two and two together, this device might be a fitness band with VR features.

VR fitness devices aren’t as far-fetched as they sound. Manufacturers such as Holodia have created VR-compatible exercising machines. In fact, their official video released in May 2016 showcased a user on their Concept 2 rowing machine rig wearing the HTC Vive.

A device that combines the qualities of a fitness band and a VR handset could be an enticing one for fitness enthusiasts since it will combine reaching fitness goals with VR-based engagement. While the fitness band would provide them information on their activities, the headset could help sustain long periods of exercise with engaging VR content.

HTC has not confirmed the existence of such a device, but the expectation based on the certification is that we will get to see it soon.