Lenovo has a sub-$400 VR headset in the works

Scorpus

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Lenovo is working on a virtual reality headset for Microsoft's Windows Holographic platform that will compete against the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift. A prototype of the headset was shown off at CES 2017, and although the prototype doesn't actually work at this stage, early impressions are promising.

The headset is set to be lighter than the HTC Vive, with Lenovo targeting 350 grams as opposed to the 550 grams of the Vive. It borrows design elements from PlayStation VR such that the lens assembly is suspended in front of your eyes, rather than strapped to your head, which improves comfort. As it's designed to be used with a Windows PC, the headset is tethered.

Inside the headset will be two 1440 x 1440 OLED displays, one for each eye, resulting in a higher resolution than the Vive and Rift (both are 1080 x 1200 per eye). The camera assembly on the front will be used for tracking and positioning, so Lenovo's VR solution won't require external cameras or towers to function. These cameras will also be used for mixed reality applications similar to the HoloLens.

Lenovo will be shipping their headset without controllers, instead relying on third-party devices produced for the Windows Holographic platform. This will keep the cost of the headset down: Lenovo is targeting a sub-$400 price that may end up being closer to $300 at launch. The headset is expected to launch this year, according to the company.

Image via Engadget

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Thus far, I've used Oculus, Vive and PS4VR. I'm not terribly impressed by any of them due to the blurred visiual quality, washed out colors and the disorientating feelings - but I'd have to say, although I like Vive most, the PS4VR is the least expensive solution.

Thing is, the experience itself is a personal one. Most computers can't handle multiple VR systems simultaneously.

At the cost of these things, you're better off just buying a 4K 50" TV.
 
The increased resolution seems to be really good, but I'll wait for the 2nd gen from the big 3 before I decide to buy something this expensive
 
Most computers can't handle multiple VR systems simultaneously.

I'm going to refrain from categorizing this as a problem on the premise that most PC users aren't hydras.


So quick to comment yet you never actually took the time to think about whether you should.

Did it ever occur to you that I was referring to a SECOND player?

Did it ever occur to you that the reason I mentioned "big screen TV" is because more than one person can enoy the visuals?

Be thankful there is a TOS.
 
Did it ever occur to you that I was referring to a SECOND player?

Yes. And I discounted it for the same reason I'd discount recommending a Super Duty over a Raptor: intended purpose.

VR isn't marketed or intended (at present) to replace the Wii (I.e. something you play with physically present friends). It's marketed and intended to enhance "solo" experiences. Suggesting a 50" TV is more valuable because it can hitch more trailers misses the point.

Be thankful there is a TOS.

Or what, you'd type at me more aggressively?
 
Did it ever occur to you that I was referring to a SECOND player?

Yes. And I discounted it for the same reason I'd discount recommending a Super Duty over a Raptor: intended purpose.

VR isn't marketed or intended (at present) to replace the Wii (I.e. something you play with physically present friends). It's marketed and intended to enhance "solo" experiences. Suggesting a 50" TV is more valuable because it can hitch more trailers misses the point.

Be thankful there is a TOS.

Or what, you'd type at me more aggressively?


I'm done with you. You're not worth getting banned.

Just be thankful there's a TOS.

Good Day sir...
 
Did it ever occur to you that I was referring to a SECOND player?

Yes. And I discounted it for the same reason I'd discount recommending a Super Duty over a Raptor: intended purpose.

VR isn't marketed or intended (at present) to replace the Wii (I.e. something you play with physically present friends). It's marketed and intended to enhance "solo" experiences. Suggesting a 50" TV is more valuable because it can hitch more trailers misses the point.

Be thankful there is a TOS.

Or what, you'd type at me more aggressively?


I'm done with you. You're not worth getting banned.

Just be thankful there's a TOS.

Good Day sir...
I love how condescending and violent these elitist folk are.
 
You guys enjoy your pissing contest? Well that was fun...

Anyway, this looks a good alternative for those who can't spend $800 on a VR solution. I for one am very interested in this. I would primarily play racing games and flight sims with a VR headset so I don't need any controllers, I already have them. Higher resolution and lower price sounds like win win to me... I'll reserve judgement though until we see if the headset and lenses are any good.
 
You guys enjoy your pissing contest? Well that was fun...

Anyway, this looks a good alternative for those who can't spend $800 on a VR solution. I for one am very interested in this. I would primarily play racing games and flight sims with a VR headset so I don't need any controllers, I already have them. Higher resolution and lower price sounds like win win to me... I'll reserve judgement though until we see if the headset and lenses are any good.
IMO, the lower the price the better, and that will bring competition to the market which will then likely lower the price further. I could spend $800 on a VR solution, however, I can think of a number of other things, to me at least, that are more valuable for me at this time.

Personally, this seems like a natural progression. New tech is usually expensive when first introduced.
 
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