Sony Finally Forays into the Metaverse with the Mocopi Motion Tracking System

JAKARTA - Sony has just taken a giant step into the future of virtual reality and the metaverse, and it's all thanks to a simple set of button-like devices, the Sony Mocopi.

The mocopi consists of six motion-tracking bands that are worn on the hands, feet, back and head and costs 49.500 yen or equivalent to IDR 5.9 million. Going on sale in Japan in January 2023.

Shaped like an Apple AirTag, it serves to let users track their gestures to create videos or operate avatars in real time with metaverse applications such as VRChat.

Mocopi relies on Sony's proprietary algorithm to measure and track movements with minimal restrictions.

"Normally, video production using motion capture requires special equipment and operators. By leveraging our proprietary algorithm, Mocopi realizes highly accurate motion measurement with a small number of sensors, freeing VTubers (virtual YouTubers) and content creators involved in film and animation production from the limitations of time and place," said Sony.

In fact, Mocopi offers a Software Development Kit (SDK) where users can import motion data into 3D animation applications.

As of now, Mocopi hasn't been linked to the service, but Sony says the SDK will launch on December 15, 2022, as well as providing access to Unity (a developer platform) and MotionBuilder.

"This SDK expands the use of motion data for activities such as full-body tracking, facilitating the development of new services in areas such as metaverse and fitness," said Sony.

However, this tool will not help users play games by itself, but it will be a useful tool in game metaverse and social applications.

Cited from Engadget, Wednesday, November 30, in terms of water and dust protection, the Sony Mocopi is rated IPX5/IPX8 and IP6X. It can withstand activities even when it rains. Each Mocopi sensor can be used for up to 10 hours and weighs 8g.

The Mocopi application can record voice and make facial expressions for these virtual characters, which is currently only available on the Sony Xperia 1 and Xperia 5 series and the iPhone. More models are expected to be added to the list in the future.

It's an ambitious product aimed not only at people interested in the metaverse, but animation professionals and filmmakers as well. Sony says users can use existing VRM avatars and export recorded videos in MP4 format, provided they have a device with iOS 15.7.1 or Android 11.