We’re seeing lots of new entries into the XR hardware space. Some are from major vendors like Apple whilst smaller players such as Bigscreen are also in the mix. When it comes to that latter category, another company worth keeping an eye on is Somnium Space. Having previously announced its intention to enter the PCVR market, the Somnium VR1 launch is still slated for 2023.
In a recent blog posting, Somnium Space outlined the progress made so far, showcasing new prototypes and a new website. The first public step towards the launch will happen by way of a revamped Somnium Space website at the end of September. Featuring a dedicated VR1 section, the website will allow early adopters to reserve a spot for free, helping Somnium gauge order numbers.
Somnium VR1 is go!
If you’re one of these people who like to see hardware before purchasing then that’s also a possibility. The in-person Somnium Connect 2023 conference in Prague will showcase the Somnium VR1 headset. Dates and times have still to be announced. However, if you reserve a VR1 spot then you’ll get priority access to secure tickets for Somnium Connect.
When it comes to the VR1 development, new 4th-gen prototypes showcase testing on the face mask, buttons, weight distribution, cooling, IPD adjustment mechanism and anchor points durability. All the design and manufacturing are being handled by VRgineers, the company behind the XTAL enterprise-level headset.
The modular VR headset is being designed so that customers can include components like hand and eye tracking. When it comes to eye tracking, Somnium Space has confirmed that its algorithms will be fully open-source. This ensures: “developers gain the autonomy to refine and adapt the algorithm, ensuring they have comprehensive control over raw image processing,” states Somnium.
It might be designed as a PCVR headset but the Somnium VR1 will be keeping up with modern times. It’ll feature mixed reality capabilities thanks to 2 x 12MP cameras with a native resolution of 2 x 4056×3040.
Currently, Somnium Space has yet to specify a more specific release window for the VR1 other than ‘late 2023’. Considering the difficulties of bringing hardware to market, and that there are only three months left of the year, that window is closing fast.
What do you think of the upcoming Somnium VR1 launch, will you be ordering a headset? Let us know in the comments below.