Sony’s mixed reality headset for ‘spatial content creation’ arrives later this year

Sony's mixed reality headset for 'spatial content creation' arrives later this year

Sony unveiled a new XR head-mounted display and controllers at CES 2024, targeting spatial content creation. The headset, currently without a name, has a matte gray finish, two front-facing cameras, and a design reminiscent of PSVR2. Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2, the self-contained device features dual 4K OLED microdisplays, providing a “crisp viewing experience” for professionals engaged in 3D design. The headset offers “video see-through” functionality with six cameras and sensors.

Sony’s new controllers include a “ring controller” for manipulating objects and a “pointing controller” for precise interactions. The company envisions creators crafting 3D models in real-time using both controllers and traditional input devices like keyboards. The headset’s balance has been fine-tuned, and its display portion can flip up and out of the wearer’s field of vision for convenience.

The device is expected to compete with Microsoft’s HoloLens and is designed for professionals involved in spatial content creation. Sony demonstrated the headset’s capabilities with a user manipulating a bipedal robot, showcasing the potential for remote collaboration and review of work through third-party creative apps. The XR head-mounted display and controllers are set to be available later in 2024, with pricing details yet to be announced.