In addition to the recently introduced VR headset prototypes on display, HTC today announced the expansion of its Vive Cosmos lineup with three new models: the Cosmos Elite, Cosmos XR, and Cosmos Play.

Each is built around a modular design with interchangeable faceplates. This means that there are now four Cosmos headsets, including the one HTC released last year. Of course, there is also the Valve Index, the best VR headset for a premium experience on the PC, but that's another story.

HTC released the original Cosmos last year for $699, a high-end VR headset for PCs with attractive inside-out tracking and a faceplate that can one day be replaced to prepare for the semi-future. The new faceplate supports the launch of this extended Cosmos.

All three new headsets are based on the same hardware as last year's launch models. Namely, the Elite, XR, and Play each have a flip-up visor, 1440x1770 LCD screen (2880x1770 combined), and mechanical IPD (interpupillary distance) adjustment.

HTC's multi-level rollout is an attempt to appeal to new and old VR users; the Cosmos Elite is at the top of the stack and is aimed at VR enthusiasts. It comes with a pre-installed external tracking faceplate, two SteamVR base stations, and two Vive controllers.

"The external tracking faceplates can be used with Base Station versions 1.0 or 2.0, original Vive or Vive Pro controllers, and the original inside-out tracking faceplates included with the Vive Cosmos and is easily interchangeable with the original Vive Cosmos," HTC explains.

According to HTC, Cosmos Elite will be available for pre-order on February 24 for $899.

Cosmos XR is a standalone version aimed primarily at developers and focused on pass-through augmented reality. For our purposes (playing games and consuming VR content), this is the least interesting of the bunch; HTC has not announced pricing outside of the Cosmos Elite, but said the Cosmos XR will debut in the second quarter of this year.

Finally, the Cosmos Play is aimed at new VR users. With four cameras for inside-out tracking and "the ability to grow over time," it will meet the needs of first-time VR users once they get their feet under them. It is not yet clear when this will be available.

Confused? Here's a handy breakdown inspired by RoadToVR:

Various faceplates will also be available as stand-alone items; HTC is planning to offer the external tracking faceplate that comes with the Elite in Q2 for 199 and will sell for $199, and will serve as an upgrade to the original Cosmos or Cosmos Play, it said.