The EV3 devkit features an improved battery life, better ergonomics, and an overall stronger design.
In an official blog post made earlier today, Valve revealed its Knuckles EV3 devkit, the third iteration of the companies original 2016 design. A smaller upgrade when compared to the massive changes brought on by the EV2 model, this latest update improves upon the EV2’ already solid design with a variety of improvements to the controllers’ ergonomic design and battery life.
According to the blog post, developers can expect the following changes in this latest release:
Strap
– Strap adjustment markings have been added to the top plate
– Strap rivet is thinner and no longer interferes with the wing
– Drawstring is now shorter
Trigger
– Trigger spring is now stronger
– Improved Trigger assembly and reliability
System Button
– The System button has been recessed slightly to avoid accidental presses
Grip FSR
– Grip FSRs (force sensors) more consistent from unit to unit
Battery Life
– Higher efficiency sensors increase battery life by 2 hours
– Players can now expect 7-8 hours of playtime per charge
Other
– LED light mixing improved
– USB port has been recessed, making it easier to connect the charge / data cable
– Improved fit and finish
– Improved reliability
Alongside these controller improvements comes an updated SteamVR Knuckles tech demo. Referred to as Moondust,he new-and-improved play space now supports SteamVR Input, Skeletal Input, and the SteamVR Interaction System.
Valve will soon begin reaching out to EV2 developers, as well as developers who requested a devkit through the partner site, first, followed by those who apply via request forms which will be made available in the near future. EV3 kits will be distributed on a significantly larger scale than its EV2 counterpart, which means more developers than ever before can get in on the action early.
Image Credit: Valve
