VRChat has recently introduced beta hand tracking support for PC users, allowing for a more immersive experience in the virtual world. While hand tracking has been available on the standalone Quest app since late 2022, PC users can now enjoy this feature as well.
By utilizing the SteamVR Skeletal Input system, PC users can now experience hand tracking on VRChat, enhancing the overall quality of avatars and worlds. This feature provides access to PC-exclusive avatars and worlds that are not possible on mobile devices.
Previously, users could use hand tracking to mimic Valve Index controllers on PC, but full finger articulation was not supported. To enable hand tracking on PC, users will need software that can forward hand tracking to SteamVR Skeletal Input, as VRChat does not yet support OpenXR.
For Meta Quest headset users, the latest beta of Virtual Desktop allows for this feature, while Apple Vision Pro users can utilize ALVR. Additionally, users with native PC VR headsets can use the open-source SteamVR driver for the Leap Motion 2 addon. It’s important to note that Virtual Desktop’s support for hand tracking is still in the experimental beta stage, according to developer Guy Godin.
The introduction of hand tracking support on PC for VRChat opens up new possibilities for social interaction within the platform. Combined with existing features such as eye tracking, face tracking, and body tracking, VRChat can deliver a deeper sense of social presence to users. This advancement may even expand the range of sign language signs that can be used within the virtual world.
Overall, the addition of hand tracking support on PC enhances the user experience on VRChat and brings the platform closer to creating a truly immersive and interactive virtual environment for its users.
