A scientist from Intel was quoted by Tom's Hardware regarding a new extension to the HTC Vive. It's a depth-sensing module with an additional six cameras that would be used for multiple purposes, including object detection so you don't run into stuff while you're running, as well as controller-free hand control.

While the work being done by Intel is only on a prototypical basis right now, it's expected that VR hardware will have these extra sensors as standard by 2018.