Sony’s Mocopi Avatar Motion-Capture System to Launch in the US

Sony has recently revealed that its one-of-a-kind Mocopi motion-tracking system will now be accessible in North America. This innovative technology enables users to manipulate digital avatars in real-time by utilizing their entire body’s movements, facilitated by six motion sensors and a specialized smartphone application. Furthermore, apart from immediate control, this translated bodily motion can also be incorporated into videos and 3D animations through a software development kit (SDK) that imports motion data into related software.

The obvious use for this is VR, especially social applications like VRChat, although the technology extends to filmmaking and other creative pursuits. In other words, this is a much easier way to create full body motion capture footage. If only George Lucas had this when he created the galaxy’s favorite Gungan.

The SDK is now available for major 3D development software like Unity, MotionBuilder, and Unreal Engine, so expect more CGI characters to appear in indie games with lower budgets. Sony says it is currently expanding the number of partners to develop unique services and features related to the tools.

The sensors attach to the head, hips, ankles and wrists, and each tiny sensor weighs only 8 grams. After attaching with Velcro, connect to the app via Bluetooth and start recording. Each sensor is completely wireless thanks to Bluetooth receivers and contains integrated batteries. The system comes with a variety of avatars to choose from, but of course you can use your own, just cool it with Sonic. There are already too many animated hedgehogs in VRChat as it is.

Sony’s Mocopi system is available for pre-order now for $450, with shipping starting on July 14th. The price is $100 more than what the system was originally announced for, though Sony didn’t say anything about the increase. The metaverse also suffers from inflation.