New facial recognition systems for virtual reality headsets could change the way users communicate, experts say.

HTC recently announced a new set of trackers for its Vive virtual reality headsets, including one that tracks facial expressions and mouth movements. It's part of a growing trend to make VR more responsive and interactive.

“More realistic experiences are important for VR to fully transform from a novelty or niche tool to a widely used consumer technology,” said Ellysse Dick, a policy analyst at the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, a science and technology policy think tank, in an email interview.

“It will enable more meaningful interactions and richer experiences, growing markets in areas such as education, workplace collaboration and entertainment.”