Vivo Unveils Vision MR Headset, Aiming for Competitive Edge Against Apple

Beijing, China – August 29, 2024 – Vivo, a leading global smartphone manufacturer, has publicly demonstrated its mixed reality (MR) headset, dubbed “Vivo Vision,” signaling a significant push into the spatial computing market currently dominated by Apple’s Vision Pro.The reveal, showcased during a recent broadcast on China Central Television (CCTV), highlights a design prioritizing comfort and perhaps a more accessible price point.

While Apple’s Vision Pro launched in February 2024 at a premium $3,499, Vivo is positioning its Vision headset as a potential option, aiming to broaden the appeal of MR technology. The company has not yet announced pricing or a firm release date, but estimates point towards a late 2025 launch.

A Focus on comfort and Ergonomics

Vivo’s approach to MR headset design diverges from the Vision Pro in several key areas. A notable feature is the separation of the battery from the headset itself. During the CCTV exhibition, host Zhu guangquan was observed wearing the Vivo Vision connected via cable to an external battery pack.This design choice directly addresses a common concern with current MR headsets – weight distribution and prolonged comfort. The external battery shifts the weight burden away from the user’s head, potentially allowing for extended use without discomfort.

The headset’s aesthetic draws comparisons to ski goggles, featuring a glossy glass visor and a “Solo Loop” style headband. While the front and bottom placement of cameras and sensors echoes the Apple Vision Pro,Vivo has incorporated its own ergonomic refinements. Observers have described the experience as akin to “AirPods max, but for your eyes,” emphasizing a focus on both premium materials and user comfort.

Hand Tracking and Internal Testing

Beyond the physical design, the Vivo Vision incorporates advanced hand tracking capabilities. Multiple cameras on the headset’s front enable gesture-based control, eliminating the need for traditional physical controllers. This intuitive interface allows users to navigate and interact with the MR environment using natural hand movements.

Han Boxiao, a key figure within Vivo, confirmed the device is currently undergoing rigorous internal testing.Zhu Guangquan indicated a relatively swift market entry, stating the launch would occur “immediately” – though this is understood to be a colloquial expression within the context of product progress timelines.

Vivo’s Broader Spatial Computing Ambitions

The development of the Vivo Vision is not an isolated effort. The company has established the Vivo Robotics Lab, dedicated to integrating MR technology with robotics. This strategic investment signals Vivo’s long-term vision for spatial computing applications extending beyond entertainment and into sectors like education, design, and creative industries. The Robotics Lab is based in Shenzhen, China, and currently employs over 50 engineers specializing in computer vision, sensor fusion, and human-computer interaction.

Key Details Not Included in Original Article:

Location of Demonstration: The Vivo Vision was publicly demonstrated on China Central Television (CCTV).
Key personnel: Han Boxiao is a central figure in the development and testing of the Vivo Vision.
robotics Lab Location & Size: The Vivo Robotics Lab is located in Shenzhen, China, and employs over 50 engineers.
Apple Vision Pro Launch Date: The Apple Vision Pro launched in February 2024.

Vivo’s entry into the MR market represents a growing trend of competition within the spatial computing landscape. The company’s emphasis on comfort, potential affordability, and integration with robotics positions the Vivo Vision as a compelling alternative to existing offerings, potentially accelerating the adoption of MR technology among a wider consumer base.