Bigscreen’s new VR headset, which it claims is the world’s smallest, could have an impact on the way people experience VR fitness.
Called Bigscreen Beyond, the 127g-headset (without strap) is not only small, but it will also be custom-designed to each user’s face by way of a 3D face scan measuring face shape and inter-pupillary distance. The team says this improves clarity, stops light leakage and aligns the eyes and optics correctly. The headset can also be ordered with custom prescription lenses.
With a length of 14.3cm, width of 5.24cm and depth varying between 2.4-4.92cm the headset has been designed to break away from the traditionally bulky and often ill-fitting nature of some VR headsets, enabling a user to move themselves more freely.
“We built Beyond because we felt VR headsets were too heavy, bulky and uncomfortable – today’s have doubled in weight compared to headsets from 2016,” said Darshan Shankar, founder and CEO of Bigscreen. “We invented new technologies to increase comfort, and developed ultra-high-end components such as OLED microdisplays and pancake optics to increase immersion.”
There are two OLED displays inside the Beyond headset each with a resolution of 2560 x 2560 pixels. The team says the combined 5120 x 2560 pixel resolution “is two to three times higher than leading VR headsets”.
The headset comes with built-in SteamVR tracking – and works with SteamVR base stations, controllers and accessories – so users can play VR games on Steam, which offers a broad selection of fitness, sports, boxing and martial arts games, including rhythm game Beat Saber, The Thrill of the Fight, Creed, BoxVR, Pistol Whip and Power Beats VR.
The custom face cushion can also be hand-washed with soap to keep it hygienic.
Bigscreen Beyond is currently available for pre-order for US$999 (£825) and will be released in the US in Q3, 2023; Canada and Europe – including the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Netherlands, Italy and Belgium – in Q4, 2023; Japan, Australia and New Zealand in late 2023 and other countries and regions in 2024.
