HTC is taking a highly diversified strategy in its operations, strengthening and enriching its VR/AR ecosystem, while at the same time expanding its smartphone lineup to face market challengers head on. The company has set its targets on 5G, AI, blockchain, and AR/VR technologies, with its vision of the Viverse vision at the core of its operations. With tangible results in recent metaverse and private 5G networking applications, the company expects a boost to its operations as applications in these areas continue to expand.
In terms of hardware sales, HTC has recently launched a trial package for its Vive XR Elite headset, using a combination of hardware, games, and peripherals to boost sales. In addition, the company has taken steps to strengthen its new U23 smartphones, recently adding new colors for the U23 Pro to prolong the life cycle of its new lineup and promote sales. HTC has also revamped its Viverse app to enhance integration between its smartphone and the metaverse.
HTC has also been active in the creative front for AR/VR vertical applications. Its Vive Arts team has announced plans to use their VR technology to assist reconstruction of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, and launched an immersive "Eternal Notre-Dame" worldwide touring exhibition in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Affairs and the Kaohsiung City Government. Exhibitions also include the "Horizon of Khufu" immersive experience, created in conjunction with the AR/VR content company Excurio.
To tap into the market potential for private 5G networking, the HTC G Reigns team has been tasked with the development of products and solutions. Using technologies such as FlexRAN and vRAN Boost developed by Intel, the two companies have teamed up to produce the Reign Core S2, a portable private 5G network solution, as well as various other customized solutions and services. In particular, the luggage-sized Reign Core S2 supports two indoor low-power RF modules at the same time, offering private 5G coverage within a 10,000 square meter area; furthermore, modules for multiple frequencies can be added to multiply the coverage area. The product has already received Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) certification in the US, and is awaiting introduction into European markets for applications in exhibitions, education, and medical testing, which will no doubt boost HTC's bottom line.
However, according to Counterpoint's market statistics, Meta and Sony combined took up 70% of global XR hardware shipments in the first quarter of 2023. Although HTC is a leader in AR/VR hardware development and ecosystem building, the company only accounted for 1% of total hardware shipments. Furthermore, with the company launching an average of only two smartphone models per year, it remains to be seen whether HTC will be able to turn its fortunes around.
In contrast with Meta and Sony, HTC's XR hardware shipments have been meager at best.
Article translated by Kevin Wang
