Finnish mixed-reality startup Varjo has introduced its latest technological marvel, the XR-4 headset, targeting large enterprise firms with a vision to revolutionize virtual and augmented reality experiences. Priced at $3,990, the XR-4 competes with offerings from tech giants Meta, Microsoft, and Apple. Unlike its consumer-focused counterparts, Varjo’s XR-4 is tailored for specific enterprise use cases, presenting exciting possibilities for industries like defense and construction.
Key Features and Technical Advancements
Enhanced Display Technology: The XR-4 boasts two 4K displays, providing a 50% wider field of view compared to previous-generation devices. Brighter displays and a broader color palette contribute to a more immersive experience for enterprise users.
Technological Simplicity: Varjo’s Chief Product Officer, Patrick Wyatt, emphasized to CNBC the technical simplicity of the XR-4, featuring one screen per eye to maximize resolution and reduce costs. This streamlining enables users to experience cutting-edge mixed reality without compromising on quality.
Pass-Through Mixed Reality: The inclusion of two 20-megapixel cameras enables pass-through mixed reality, allowing users to see their surroundings through lenses embedded in the headset. This feature aligns with the offerings from Meta and Apple, facilitating the overlay of digital objects onto the physical environment.
Advanced Sensors and Lidar Technology: Ambient light sensors and improved Lidar ensure a seamless transition between virtual and augmented reality environments. This technology enhances the overall user experience, enabling precise 3D laser scanning and range detection.
Immersive Audio: The XR-4 supports built-in 3D spatial audio, complete with noise-canceling microphones and integrated speakers. This audio enhancement further enriches the user’s engagement with both digital and physical environments.
Navigation and Interaction: Equipped with inside-out tracking and Varjo’s proprietary controllers, the XR-4 offers intuitive navigation in mixed-reality spaces. This functionality empowers users to seamlessly interact with their surroundings, fostering a more natural and immersive experience.
Industry Applications
Varjo envisions diverse applications for the XR-4 across industries. From training simulations for defense contractors to aiding surveyors in mapping out expansive construction sites, the XR-4 demonstrates its versatility in enhancing enterprise workflows.
