Why Early Access?

“The very first reason we do Early Access is because we want to show you this innovative tracking S/W in Steam as soon as possible. However, we know that there are lots of points that AvaKit has to be updated and we executed several tests for few number of VTubers that we had consistently communicated with. After couple of tests, the performance quality was getting better and better, and we realized that we are proud enough to show AvaKit now. But, it is also true that there are still several points to be improved and it is necessary to apply feedback from more users to develop better AvaKit.”

Approximately how long will this software be in Early Access?

“It is expected to take about 2 months, but it can be flexibly changed depending on your feedback and opinion we received during the Early Access because nobody can ensure how long it will take to develop additional 'must-have' features before the official release. However, what we will not change is our mindset that we will always try hard to develop the best application that anyone can use to be a VTuber with ease.”

How is the full version planned to differ from the Early Access version?

“It is thought that we have already developed the 'most-basically-essential' features for real-time motion capture through couple of alpha tests and the closed beta test for several months. However, as there are much more Steam users and we, AvaKit dev, think that we can realize more various features and errors that we haven't thought or heard of until now. The features that are expected to be developed during the Early Access are as follows.

• Interaction plugin between VTuber and viewers by linking with Twitch and YouTube (chat, donation, super chat information import)

• Sticker and illustration auto-generation

• Closet mode(This will help you change your costumes easily without shape key registration)

• More various rendering filter(shader) types

• Collab with AvaKit users

• Inner camera for avatar selfie like VRChat

• More attractive and intuitive design

• ...and many more through our exclusive plugins!

We know that some of these objectives can be achieved but some are not. And we also know that these objectives are not enough - this must not be the perfect 'must-have' feature list. And we believe that we can diversify our objective during the Early Access with your sincere feedback since the list above is also written by the previous testers. We always look forward to your contact. :)”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“We are going to update AvaKit on a regular basis and this update is going to include introduction of new features and improvement of existing features. The current version of AvaKit supports the most basic features for real-time mo-cap and livestreaming, and its list is as follows.

• Easiest and fastest real-time facial expression, hands, body tracking to start

• Microphone-based lip sync (both audio-based and video-based are available)

• High-quality rendering through AvaKit rendering filter(shader applying system) - overall improvement of shadow and material texture rendering and resolution compared to other tracking programs

• Shape key implementation through hot key registration - blendshape, costume, hair, etc.

• Precise setting related to tracking parameters and avatar movement

• Position, rotation and size modification of avatar

• Sticker(prop) import (Available to import PNG file as a sticker and register it with hot key)

• Chroma key - green background, Spout2 Capture and Syphon Client available

• Various backgrounds, lightings, particle effects, and beauty filters

• NDI support

• 3D object throwing features integrated with Twitch chatting keywords

”

Will this software be priced differently during and after Early Access?

“The price of AvaKit will not be changed during the Early Access. and most of features that are included in the beta version can be used freely even after the Early Access. (This version will be named as 'AvaKit(free)'.)

However, we also plan to offer 'AvaKit PRO' as a monthly-subscription format and PRO version will include more detailed settings and support more various plugins for livestreaming. Detailed pricing is not defined yet and we will notice the precise difference between free and PRO version including features, supporting plugins, and so on right after we confirm the detail. Most of all, we will always listen to and reflect your feedback, and update fascinating, new features to make sure your subscription is worth to be paid.”

How are you planning on involving the Community in your development process?

“We are going to keep all possible communication channels open, and we are open to listening to your feedback and opinion at any time.
We, AvaKit dev, consider this Early Access as the open beta test before implementing the official release. Also, we know the importance of the Early Access in order to launch more perfect service.
For now, you can communicate with us through the official Discord channel and support mail, and we will regularly share our AvaKit development procedure through our Twitter account. We will always try our best to communicate with you guys!”