Qualcomm XR2+ Chip: The Next Generation of VR Headsets
The Qualcomm XR2+ Gen 2 chip, unveiled at CES 2024, is set to power the next wave of VR headsets. With impressive features and performance enhancements, this chipset is expected to be incorporated into the upcoming enterprise headsets, including the Samsung VR headset developed in collaboration with Google. The XR2+ Gen 2 chip supports high-resolution displays up to 4.3K per eye, runs at a smooth 90Hz, delivers 2.5 times better GPU performance than previous models, and offers 8 times better AI performance. With Wi-Fi 7 and full-color mixed reality passthrough support, Qualcomm is solidifying its position as a leading name in XR chipsets.
Asus AirVision M1 Glasses: AR Display for Your Devices
Asus made a splash at CES 2024 with its AirVision M1 glasses. Although they may sound like a knockoff Apple product, these glasses are actually an AR wearable display. However, unlike standalone AR glasses, the AirVision M1 glasses need to be connected to a compatible device, such as a phone or computer, with a USB-C display port. This tethered functionality may limit their appeal, especially considering the additional cost of optional add-ons needed to fully experience the device. While the Asus AirVision M1 glasses haven’t been tested yet, their availability and launch date are still uncertain. Potential buyers would be wise to wait for more information before making a purchasing decision.
Xreal Air 2 Ultra: Next-Level AR Glasses with Spatial Computing
Xreal, known for its impressive smart glasses offerings, showcased its latest innovation, the Xreal Air 2 Ultra, at CES 2024. Unlike its predecessors, the Air 2 Ultra goes beyond projecting an AR screen and incorporates a spatial computer with a camera. This allows the glasses to track hand movements and interact with real-world objects. However, the glasses require an external device, specifically the Samsung Galaxy S22 or S23, or a yet-to-be-released “custom computing unit,” to operate. While this may limit their compatibility, users can still enjoy a wearable full-HD display if they have a gadget with a USB-C display port. With a price point of around $1,000, Xreal aims to offer a more affordable alternative to the $3,499 Apple Vision Pro.
AR Glasses in Cars: BMW’s AR Directions and Safety Warnings
BMW continues to explore ways to integrate XR technology into vehicles, and at CES 2024, it showcased the use of AR glasses in cars. Using the Xreal Air 2 glasses, BMW demonstrated AR directions, providing drivers with real-time navigation assistance, warnings about road conditions, and vehicle status updates. While this was a research pilot and not a commercially available product, the immersive and informative experience demonstrated the potential of AR glasses in enhancing driving safety and convenience. This technology could revolutionize the way we interact with our vehicles, and we hope to see it progress beyond the prototype stage soon.
Sony’s Enterprise Headset: Bringing Design & Prototyping to the Metaverse
Sony’s partnership with Siemens resulted in the introduction of an enterprise-focused XR headset at CES 2024. This headset aims to facilitate design and prototyping processes by enabling companies to create and analyze 3D models in the metaverse. The headset features a standard design with a unique set of handsets, including a traditional VR controller and a ring-shaped controller. This innovative setup allows users to interact with real-world objects while having the convenience of button controls for virtual objects. While more details about the headset are yet to be revealed, its standalone design hints at a potential successor to the PlayStation VR headset that could be untethered from the PlayStation console.
Analyst comment
The market for VR and AR devices is expected to grow as major players like Qualcomm, Asus, Xreal, BMW, and Sony introduce innovative products. The Qualcomm XR2+ chip will power the next wave of VR headsets, solidifying Qualcomm’s position as a leading name in XR chipsets. The Asus AirVision M1 glasses may have limited appeal due to tethered functionality and the need for optional add-ons. The Xreal Air 2 Ultra offers next-level AR glasses with spatial computing but requires specific external devices to operate. BMW’s use of AR glasses in cars demonstrates the potential of XR technology in enhancing driving safety and convenience. Sony’s enterprise-focused XR headset aims to facilitate design and prototyping processes in the metaverse, potentially signaling a successor to the PlayStation VR headset. Overall, the market is expected to experience growth with these new products and advancements in XR technology.
