Introducing Feelreal Sensory Mask, a VR mask that adds a sense of smell while viewing VR content

FeelReal launched their Feelreal Sensory Mask, earlier this week, that not only allows you to see things in virtual reality (VR) but also gives you a sense of smell among other senses.

VR headsets have seen major progress in recent years from a higher resolution to a wider field of view. To be able to smell different odors, and other sensory inputs in a VR headset is something entirely new. Feelreal Inc brings a sensory mask that adds a sense of smell when you are viewing VR content.

Feelreal puts it as: “Imagine the depth of interaction when users can truly feel themselves on a racing track and actually smell burned rubber. Or being able to grasp the feeling of being on a battlefield complete with the intense gunpowder odor. This is what the multi-sensory virtual reality experience is all about.”

The company tweeted on Wednesday announcing the new VR mask:

The smells are developed using a scent generator that holds a replaceable cartridge which contains nine aroma capsules. There are 255 scents to choose from in their store.

Along with providing various odors, the VR mask delivers other inputs to the user:

• Water Mist: The ultrasonic ionizing system will make you feel the rain on your cheeks.
• Heat: Safe micro-heaters will allow you to sense the warmth of the desert.
• Wind: Two micro-coolers will let you experience the cool mountain breeze.
• Vibration: Force-feedback haptic motors to induce impactful vibrations.

There are many applications of the Feelreal multi-sensory mask. They can be used for movies at 360°, Feelreal dreams, VR games, immersive meditation, and aromatherapy controlled by their mobile app. You can connect the mask to Samsung Gear VR, Oculus Rift, Oculus Go, HTC Vive, or PlayStation VR via Bluetooth or WiFi.

Feelreal is planning to bring this mask to Kickstarter and get funding. In 2015, they attempted crowdfunding for the mask with seven cartridges but could not get the necessary funding.

The Feelreal mask comes in three colors, white, gray, and black.

The Feelreal Sensory Mask is currently in the crowdfunding stage. For more details, visit the Feelreal website.

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