Bigscreen VR has revealed its new Bigscreen Beyond, the world’s smallestvirtual realityheadset. However, big things can come in small packages, as the tiny display offers a staggering 5K resolution. This is more than twice the pixels of majorcompetitors like the Oculus Quest 2and HTC Vive, despite significantly reducing the hardware’s size and weight.
CEO Darshan Shankar founded Bigscreen VR in 2014 as avirtual realitysoftware developer. Its namesake software launched in 2016 and has over 6 million users, according to the company’s website. Described as a “virtual living room,” it lets users watch movies, play games, collaborate with co-workers, and socialize in a digital space.
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No longer just a software company, Bigscreen plans to launch its first-ever VR headset this year. The Bigscreen Beyond features two 2560x2560 resolution panels for a total resolution of 5120x2560 pixels, putting it well into the 5K range. It also offers a refresh rate of up to 90Hz and a 90° field of view while weighing only 127 grams, or around 0.28 pounds.
Other features include stereo microphones, a proximity sensor, andfull SteamVR support, including compatibility with Steam VR base stations, controllers, and accessories. The Beyond comes in 15 sizes, and Bigscreen’s face-scanning app also allows it to assemble each headset to the dimensions of the user’s face. The company even offers optional prescription lens inserts for VR users with glasses. However, this new headset does not come cheap, as Beyond retails for $999, going up to $1098 if customers opt for the high-end audio attachment.
Additionally, while thepricey VR headsetearned praise for its comfort and performance, this comes at the cost of certain sacrifices. Engadget points out that much of the size and weight reduction comes from removing several quality-of-life features that are standard on other headsets. This includes the absence of adjustment knobs, which is why the custom fit and optional lenses are necessary. The Bigscreen Beyond also lacks a built-in camera, making it dependent on SteamVR base stations. The optional audio attachments also come in place of built-in headphones, which the system lacks.
The new headset’s price tag is still lower than some of its bulkier competitors,like the Meta Quest Pro. However, its main rivals offer an all-in-one experience that Beyond does not. Still, the reduced weight and improved ergonomics may be enough to win VR fans over. Bigscreen plans to launch Beyond this Summer and customers can pre-order it now from the company’s website.
