Varjo Announces the XR-4 Headset
Finnish company Varjo has unveiled its latest product, the Varjo XR-4, a high-end mixed reality headset. The new device features dual 4K x 4K displays with a resolution of 51 pixels per degree, a 50% wider field of view compared to previous models, and improved display brightness and color gamut. It also boasts dual 20 Mpx cameras for real-time photorealistic video pass-through mixed reality, enhanced LiDAR resolution, built-in spatial audio with noise-canceling mics, and integrated controllers. The headset is available in three versions: standard, focal edition, and secure edition, with prices ranging from €3,990 to €13,990. Varjo XR-4 is currently on sale for enterprises, and a waiting list has been opened for interested consumers.
Quest 2 Outsells Quest 3
Sales data from Amazon shows that the Quest 2 outsold the Quest 3 by a factor of 3:1 in the last 30 days. The lower price of the Quest 2 compared to the Quest 3, combined with a $50 Store credit included in the Black Friday promotion, resulted in more consumers opting for the cheaper headset. This data raises concerns among developers, as a larger market share for the Quest 2 may lead to a focus on developing for that headset rather than utilizing the enhanced capabilities of the Quest 3.
HTC Unveils the Vive Ultimate Tracker
HTC has officially announced the Vive Ultimate Tracker, a standalone inside-out tracker unit. The tracker, which doesn’t require any SteamVR base station, is ideal for full body tracking or object tracking in standalone headsets like the Vive XR Elite. Each tracker costs $200 and requires a Vive Wireless Dongle to be attached to the headset. HTC offers various bundles that include multiple trackers and accessories. Currently, the Vive Ultimate Tracker is only compatible with Vive XR Elite, but compatibility with other headsets is being explored.
Valve Releases Steam Link for Quest
Valve has launched Steam Link, a wireless connection solution that allows users to connect their Quest directly to SteamVR without going through the Meta Quest PC runtime. Users need to launch a special Valve application on their Quest and enter a pairing code provided by the SteamVR runtime. This move by Valve suggests that Meta doesn’t prioritize PCVR and is willing to let other companies fill the gap. Virtual Desktop developer, Guy Godin, commented that Steam Link doesn’t pose a threat to his software, as it offers more functionalities and works with Meta’s PC runtime games.
Other News
Other news includes the announcement that the Quest 3 will not receive a price cut in the near future, a leaked screenshot of Apple Vision Pro showing impressive hand segmentation, the shutdown of LivingCities, and the winners of the VR Awards.
Donation for a Good Cause
In the final paragraph, the author encourages readers to donate to the Red Cross to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.