Virtuix not shipping Omni outside the US, refunds backers
Company claims it struggled to find “cost effective options” for worldwide distribution of virtual reality treadmill
Virtuix is cancelling pre-orders for its crowdfunded Omni treadmill for any backers who live outside the United States.
A note to backers, spotted by VentureBeat, apologised to customers and promised full refunds for those who ordered the device. The company attributed this development to the lack of infrastructure needed to not only send the Omni out to different territories, but also set up customer support and replacement parts services.
"In the last few months, we have explored cost effective options to get the Omni distributed and serviced worldwide, which has become increasingly difficult and expensive given the Omni's transformation to a high-end entertainment device," the note reads.
"After much internal debate and soul-searching, we have concluded that as a small US-based start-up, we unfortunately do not have the resources to deliver and service units in every country.
"We will continue our efforts to expand our distribution markets, and we hope one day to be able to deliver an Omni to you. However, we do not deem it appropriate to hold on to your funds until that time. Along with our refund, please accept our sincere apologies."
Virtuix still hopes to distribute Omni to commercial markets outside the US, suggesting the device could appear in theme parks or arcades, but it's currently unlikely it will be available to consumers beyond the company's home territory.
The Virtuix Omni is a treadmill that allows virtual reality players to walk or run on the spot, with their movement recreated in-game. It was brought to life with the help of a $1.1m Kickstarter campaign that attracted over 3,200 backers.