HP's latest VR backpack PC targets businesses, just like the HoloLens

VR backpacks are an interesting idea: they allow for a much less obstructive VR experience, especially in environments where you need to move around quite a lot. HP is technically leading the market when it comes to VR backpack PCs with its Omen line of gaming PCs. And now, the company is trying to bring the idea of VR backpack PCs to the enterprise world with its Z VR Backpack. The company thinks it can change how businesses interact with virtual models using a virtual reality headset — effectively like the HoloLens.

HP’s VR backpack PC for businesses packs strong integration for HTC’s Vive Business edition but it will work just fine for those with an Oculus Rift. The PC includes all the high-end specs you would expect, including a vPro-enabled quad core Core i7 processor, and the Nvidia Quadro P5200 graphics with 16GB of RAM. The device also sports military-grade water, drop, and dust resistance.

With all the high specs, you will have to pay $3299 for the entry-level variant of the Z VR Backpack. That’s certainly a little too expensive, especially when you can just get a wireless computer like HoloLens for only $3,000 that’ll allow for so much more than just virtual reality. Companies like Volvo are already using the HoloLens, and a VR backpack PC that costs $3299 probably won’t get much traction. It’s an interesting device for sure, but I just don’t think it’s the best solution for businesses.