The biggest issue with current virtual reality headsets is they must be connected to computers and systems that allow the headset to project such high-resolution visuals. The headset is connected to computers by an HDMI cable that is annoying to users as they have to maneuver around it and try not to trip. Recently, researchers at MIT's CSAIL department have worked together to develop the MoVR, a system that allows users to use any virtual reality headset wirelessly. The system works by using millimeter waves, which are high frequency radio signals, to connect to the computer and wifi. Millimeter waves are known to possibly be a part of the futures' amazingly fast smartphones.
Wireless virtual reality headsets are more comfortable for users, but they can't access all the advanced data-processing. In order to project the same high-resolution visuals as a vr headset with a cable input, the wireless system needs data rates of more than six Gbps, which cannot be achieved with any system today. MoVR works with mmWaves, which have been used for things like high speed internet and cancer diagnosis. However, the downside of mmWaves is in order for them to work with virtual reality headsets there must always be a connection between the transmitter and receiver. This connection can be blocked very easily by moving anything between the two. The CSAIL team of researchers found a way around this problem by creating MoVR to act as a programmable mirror that can find the mmWaves signal and reflect it back to the receiver. MoVR is programmed to use angles to accurately reflect the mmWaves signals from the transmitter towards the receiver on the headset. MoVR's are able to find the angles through two antennas, called phased arrays, that focus signals into beams which are sent to the MoVR system.
References:
http://news.mit.edu/2016/enabling-wireless-virtual-reality-1114
http://www.techtimes.com/articles/185580/20161112/htc-vive-virtual-reality-headset-goes-wireless-220-upgrade-kit-now-open-for-preorders.htm
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