CES 2024: Sony Expands Mixed Reality Portfolio with New Headsets for Work

Sony has taken a leap forward from gaming with its new mixed reality (MR) headsets, which are designed for both work and play. The company collaborated with Siemens on these devices, which aim to change the way we work and create in a digital environment.

Sony's Spatial Content Creator MR Headset

In late 2022, Sony unveiled the PS VR2 for gamers, and now, they are broadening their horizons with a mixed-reality headset designed for spatial content creators. This collaboration with Siemens resulted in a headset aimed at professionals in various fields, from product design to film production.

Features of Sony's MR Headset

The spatial content creator headset boasts dual 4K OLED microdisplays, each measuring 1.3 inches. These displays, driven by the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 processor, promise realistic rendering of 3D objects and facial expressions in real-time. The system employs "split rendering," distributing computational tasks between the headset and connected computers to maintain a stable frame rate for large 3D models.

With six cameras and sensors, the headset achieves spatial tracking and video see-through functionality, blending virtual and real-world elements seamlessly. Two unique controllers accompany the headset: a ring-shaped controller for manipulating 3D objects and an accurate pointer for designing and manipulating virtual elements.

Controllers and Creative Applications

The headset offers a pair of unique controllers - a pointer controlled by the index finger and a ring-like device manipulated with the thumb. Aimed at 3D creatives, Sony positions this headset as an ideal tool for interacting with and creating 3D content, such as models, architecture, and design reviews.

Collaboration with Siemens and OS Considerations

In addition to making Siemens' NX CAD software compatible with the headset, Sony's collaboration with Siemens also includes making the headset's operating system (OS) based on Android. However, there are still questions about whether the headset will be compatible with OpenXR and whether it will use proprietary implementations.

Comfort and Integration

Sony emphasizes extended use by ensuring comfort through balanced design and comfortable padding. The front of the headset can be flipped up, allowing users to shift their focus to the real world without removing the device. Integration with Siemens' NX Immersive Designer Software enhances the device's capabilities, making it a versatile tool for professionals.

Launch Details and Price Point

The Sony MR headset has yet to be priced, but the company has promised a release date this year.