In the Spring, Finnish virtual reality (VR) headset manufacturer Varjo revealed it was entering the field of mixed reality (MR) with a new device called XR-1. With I/ITSEC 2019 currently underway in Orlando, for the event, Varjo has just announced that the XR-1 Developer Edition is now available for purchase for the rather tidy sum of $10,000 USD (almost).
Actually, the Varjo XR-1 Developer Edition headset retails for $9,995 but companies will also need to shell out for Varjo’s Software and Support service at $1,995. Small change for companies like Volvo who have been working with Varjo to develop the device – Varjo even received investment from Volvo’s Cars Tech Fund.
The Varjo XR-1 Developer Edition is essentially an upgrade to the VR-1 headset Varjo launched earlier in the year. So the device still features the Bionic Display made up of two screens. The main ‘Context screen’ delivers 1440×1600 per eye while a microdisplay or ‘focal screen’ delivers a resolution of 60 pixels per degree (or 3000ppi). Other features include Varjo’s own in-house 20/20 Eye Tracker system and an 87-degree field of view. To make the headset ‘mixed reality’ Varjo has added two 12mp cameras on the front, thus enabling users to switch between MR and full VR modes.
“Many companies understand the benefits of implementing virtual and mixed reality into their workflows, but haven’t had access to technology sophisticated enough to create photorealistic, 3D content and simulations,” said Urho Konttori, Chief Product Officer and co-founder of Varjo in a statement. “We are excited to bring the XR-1 Developer Edition to market as the industry’s first device that can flawlessly blend the virtual with the real world like never before – pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in training, design and research.”
Varjo no longer sells the VR-1 as this design was recently superseded by the VR-2 and VR-2 Pro models launched in October. Retailing for $4,995 and $5,995, the new headsets feature an upgraded Bionic Display with improved peripheral vision and colour consistency. The VR-2 Pro also comes with Ultraleap hand tracking built-in.
All the headsets can be purchased off Varjo’s website and for further updates on enterprise VR keep reading VRFocus.
via Mint VR