SimulaVR - Revision history

Xinreality: /* Simula One */

2025-05-24T11:40:23Z

Simula One

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	=== Simula One ===		=== Simula One ===

	The Simula One is SimulaVR's flagship product, described by the company as a "VR Computer" (VRC) rather than a traditional VR headset. It was designed specifically for productivity and office work rather than gaming or entertainment.<ref name="about" /> The headset features high-resolution displays and runs SimulaOS, allowing users to work with Linux desktop applications in a virtual reality environment.<ref name="roadtovr-kickstarter">Road to VR. "Simula One is a Standalone VR Headset Natively Running Linux Desktop, Kickstarter in January". December 15, 2021. https://www.roadtovr.com/simula-one-linux-vr-headset-kickstarter/</ref>		The [[Simula One]] is SimulaVR's flagship product, described by the company as a "VR Computer" (VRC) rather than a traditional VR headset. It was designed specifically for productivity and office work rather than gaming or entertainment.<ref name="about" /> The headset features high-resolution displays and runs SimulaOS, allowing users to work with Linux desktop applications in a virtual reality environment.<ref name="roadtovr-kickstarter">Road to VR. "Simula One is a Standalone VR Headset Natively Running Linux Desktop, Kickstarter in January". December 15, 2021. https://www.roadtovr.com/simula-one-linux-vr-headset-kickstarter/</ref>

	==== Technical Specifications ====		==== Technical Specifications ====

Xinreality at 08:44, 6 May 2025

2025-05-06T08:44:28Z

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	\|Type=Private		\|Type=Private
	\|Industry=[[Virtual Reality]], Computer Hardware Manufacturing		\|Industry=[[Virtual Reality]], Computer Hardware Manufacturing
	\|Founded=2017~~, New York, New York, United States~~		\|Founded=2017
	\|Founder=[[George Singer]], [[David Kraeutmann]]		\|Founder=[[George Singer]], [[David Kraeutmann]]
	\|Headquarters=~~New York, New York, United States~~		\|Headquarters=
	\|Notable Personnel=George Singer (CEO), David Kraeutmann, Kevin Rodriguez		\|Notable Personnel=George Singer (CEO), David Kraeutmann, Kevin Rodriguez
	\|Products=[[Simula One]], [[SimulaOS]]		\|Products=[[Simula One]], [[SimulaOS]]

Xinreality at 08:43, 6 May 2025

2025-05-06T08:43:36Z

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	SimulaVR was founded in 2017 by George Singer and David Kraeutmann, with Kevin Rodriguez joining the team later.<ref name="ghosthowls" /> The company began by developing an open-source VR window manager, which later evolved into the SimulaOS project. This window manager was compatible with existing VR headsets like the [[Valve Index]] and [[HTC Vive]].<ref name="about" />		SimulaVR was founded in 2017 by George Singer and David Kraeutmann, with Kevin Rodriguez joining the team later.<ref name="ghosthowls" /> The company began by developing an open-source VR window manager, which later evolved into the SimulaOS project. This window manager was compatible with existing VR headsets like the [[Valve Index]] and [[HTC Vive]].<ref name="about" />

	After developing a stable compositor for their software, the company encountered challenges with Linux support from other VR manufacturers. This led them to the decision to create their own hardware solution, resulting in the development of the Simula One headset.<ref name="about" />		After developing a stable compositor for their software, the company encountered challenges with Linux support from other VR manufacturers. This led them to the decision to create their own hardware solution, resulting in the development of the [[Simula One]] headset.<ref name="about" />

	Initially, SimulaVR planned to launch their Simula One headset through a Kickstarter campaign in January 2022, with a fundraising goal of $2.5 million. However, in February 2022, the company changed their approach and instead opted for direct pre-orders through their website.<ref name="roadtovr-preorders">Road to VR. "Linux-based Standalone VR Headset Ditches Kickstarter & Opens Direct Preorders". February 14, 2022. https://www.roadtovr.com/simula-one-vr-linux-standalone-kickstarter/</ref> The decision was made to avoid Kickstarter fees and to remove the platform's 60-day campaign limit, which the company believed might not be sufficient to reach their funding goals.<ref name="roadtovr-preorders" />		Initially, SimulaVR planned to launch their [[Simula One]] headset through a Kickstarter campaign in January 2022, with a fundraising goal of $2.5 million. However, in February 2022, the company changed their approach and instead opted for direct pre-orders through their website.<ref name="roadtovr-preorders">Road to VR. "Linux-based Standalone VR Headset Ditches Kickstarter & Opens Direct Preorders". February 14, 2022. https://www.roadtovr.com/simula-one-vr-linux-standalone-kickstarter/</ref> The decision was made to avoid Kickstarter fees and to remove the platform's 60-day campaign limit, which the company believed might not be sufficient to reach their funding goals.<ref name="roadtovr-preorders" />

	== Products ==		== Products ==

Xinreality at 08:43, 6 May 2025

2025-05-06T08:43:08Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:43, 6 May 2025
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	{{Company Infobox		{{Company Infobox
	\|image=		\|image=[[File:simulavr logo1.png\|350px]]
	\|Type=Private		\|Type=Private
	\|Industry=[[Virtual Reality]], Computer Hardware Manufacturing		\|Industry=[[Virtual Reality]], Computer Hardware Manufacturing
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	\|Website=https://simulavr.com		\|Website=https://simulavr.com
	}}		}}
			{{see also\|Companies}}
	~~'''~~SimulaVR~~'''~~ is an American technology company that specializes in developing [[Linux]]-based [[virtual reality]] hardware and software. The company is known for creating the world's first office-focused VR headset designed specifically for productivity and computing tasks rather than gaming or entertainment.<ref name="about">SimulaVR. "About". https://simulavr.com/about/</ref> Founded in 2017 by George Singer and David Kraeutmann, SimulaVR aims to revolutionize knowledge work by offering a superior computing experience through virtual reality.<ref name="ghosthowls">The Ghost Howls. "Simula One aims at becoming your portable Linux VR computer". January 28, 2022. https://skarredghost.com/2022/01/28/simulavr-simula-one-linux-vr/</ref>		[[SimulaVR]] is an American technology [[company]] that specializes in developing [[Linux]]-based [[virtual reality]] hardware and software. The company is known for creating the world's first office-focused [[VR headset]] designed specifically for productivity and computing tasks rather than gaming or entertainment.<ref name="about">SimulaVR. "About". https://simulavr.com/about/</ref> Founded in 2017 by George Singer and David Kraeutmann, SimulaVR aims to revolutionize knowledge work by offering a superior computing experience through virtual reality.<ref name="ghosthowls">The Ghost Howls. "Simula One aims at becoming your portable Linux VR computer". January 28, 2022. https://skarredghost.com/2022/01/28/simulavr-simula-one-linux-vr/</ref>

	== History ==		== History ==

Xinreality: Created page with "{{Company Infobox |image= |Type=Private |Industry=Virtual Reality, Computer Hardware Manufacturing |Founded=2017, New York, New York, United States |Founder=George Singer, David Kraeutmann |Headquarters=New York, New York, United States |Notable Personnel=George Singer (CEO), David Kraeutmann, Kevin Rodriguez |Products=Simula One, SimulaOS |Parent= |Website=https://simulavr.com }} '''SimulaVR''' is an American technology company that specializes in d..."

2025-05-06T08:40:29Z

Created page with "{{Company Infobox |image= |Type=Private |Industry=Virtual Reality, Computer Hardware Manufacturing |Founded=2017, New York, New York, United States |Founder=George Singer, David Kraeutmann |Headquarters=New York, New York, United States |Notable Personnel=George Singer (CEO), David Kraeutmann, Kevin Rodriguez |Products=Simula One, SimulaOS |Parent= |Website=https://simulavr.com }} '''SimulaVR''' is an American technology company that specializes in d..."

New page

{{Company Infobox
|image=
|Type=Private
|Industry=[[Virtual Reality]], Computer Hardware Manufacturing
|Founded=2017, New York, New York, United States
|Founder=[[George Singer]], [[David Kraeutmann]]
|Headquarters=New York, New York, United States
|Notable Personnel=George Singer (CEO), David Kraeutmann, Kevin Rodriguez
|Products=[[Simula One]], [[SimulaOS]]
|Parent=
|Website=https://simulavr.com
}}

'''SimulaVR''' is an American technology company that specializes in developing [[Linux]]-based [[virtual reality]] hardware and software. The company is known for creating the world's first office-focused VR headset designed specifically for productivity and computing tasks rather than gaming or entertainment.<ref name="about">SimulaVR. "About". https://simulavr.com/about/</ref> Founded in 2017 by George Singer and David Kraeutmann, SimulaVR aims to revolutionize knowledge work by offering a superior computing experience through virtual reality.<ref name="ghosthowls">The Ghost Howls. "Simula One aims at becoming your portable Linux VR computer". January 28, 2022. https://skarredghost.com/2022/01/28/simulavr-simula-one-linux-vr/</ref>

== History ==

SimulaVR was founded in 2017 by George Singer and David Kraeutmann, with Kevin Rodriguez joining the team later.<ref name="ghosthowls" /> The company began by developing an open-source VR window manager, which later evolved into the SimulaOS project. This window manager was compatible with existing VR headsets like the [[Valve Index]] and [[HTC Vive]].<ref name="about" />

After developing a stable compositor for their software, the company encountered challenges with Linux support from other VR manufacturers. This led them to the decision to create their own hardware solution, resulting in the development of the Simula One headset.<ref name="about" />

Initially, SimulaVR planned to launch their Simula One headset through a Kickstarter campaign in January 2022, with a fundraising goal of $2.5 million. However, in February 2022, the company changed their approach and instead opted for direct pre-orders through their website.<ref name="roadtovr-preorders">Road to VR. "Linux-based Standalone VR Headset Ditches Kickstarter & Opens Direct Preorders". February 14, 2022. https://www.roadtovr.com/simula-one-vr-linux-standalone-kickstarter/</ref> The decision was made to avoid Kickstarter fees and to remove the platform's 60-day campaign limit, which the company believed might not be sufficient to reach their funding goals.<ref name="roadtovr-preorders" />

== Products ==

=== SimulaOS ===

SimulaOS (sometimes abbreviated as SOS) is a VR-specialized Linux distribution developed by SimulaVR. It is an open-source VR window manager that allows users to run traditional Linux desktop applications in a virtual reality environment.<ref name="github">GitHub. "SimulaVR/Simula: Linux VR Desktop". https://github.com/SimulaVR/Simula</ref> The software was originally built over open-source infrastructure, combining wlroots and the [[Godot game engine]].<ref name="about" />

Key features of SimulaOS include:
* Compatibility with both X11 and Wayland applications
* Support for multiple virtual screens of any size
* Enhanced text clarity through specialized rendering technology
* Window manipulation in 3D space using VR controllers
* Customizable environment settings<ref name="github" />

The OS is designed to be hackable and is pre-installed on the Simula One headset, but can be removed or replaced with other Linux distributions for users who prefer different configurations.<ref name="shop">SimulaVR Store. "SimulaVR Store". https://shop.simulavr.com/</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ '''SimulaOS Compatibility'''
! Headset !! Compatibility Status
|-
| HTC Vive || Officially supported
|-
| HTC Vive Pro || Officially supported
|-
| Valve Index || Officially supported
|-
| OpenXR headsets with Monado drivers || Experimental support
|-
| Oculus Rift S (via OpenHMD) || Unofficial/Community support
|}

=== Simula One ===

The Simula One is SimulaVR's flagship product, described by the company as a "VR Computer" (VRC) rather than a traditional VR headset. It was designed specifically for productivity and office work rather than gaming or entertainment.<ref name="about" /> The headset features high-resolution displays and runs SimulaOS, allowing users to work with Linux desktop applications in a virtual reality environment.<ref name="roadtovr-kickstarter">Road to VR. "Simula One is a Standalone VR Headset Natively Running Linux Desktop, Kickstarter in January". December 15, 2021. https://www.roadtovr.com/simula-one-linux-vr-headset-kickstarter/</ref>

==== Technical Specifications ====

The Simula One features advanced hardware specifications designed for productive work in virtual reality:

{| class="wikitable"
|+ '''Simula One Technical Specifications'''
! Component !! Specification
|-
| Display || 2448 × 2448 per eye
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
|-
| Field of View || 100° (diagonal; monocular)
|-
| Pixel Density || 35.5 PPD (Pixels Per Degree)
|-
| IPD Adjustment || 55mm-77mm, independent automatic adjustment
|-
| Processor || Intel i7-1365U
|-
| Memory || 16 GB (32 GB for Founders Edition)
|-
| Graphics || Intel Iris Xe
|-
| Storage || 1 TB SSD
|-
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth 5.2, USB4, USB-C, USB-A
|-
| Tracking || 6DOF positional tracking, eye and hand tracking
|-
| Input || Hand tracking via UltraLeap
|-
| Passthrough || Dual wide-angle high-resolution RGB cameras
|-
| Audio || 3.5mm audio jack
|-
| Tethering || Supports tethered mode for gaming on other platforms (Windows/SteamVR)
|}

<ref name="shop" />

==== Unique Features ====

The Simula One offers several unique features that differentiate it from other VR headsets on the market:

* '''Superior Text Clarity''': The headset offers a pixel density (PPD) higher than other portable VR headsets on the market, combined with a specialized text rendering methodology to enhance text legibility.<ref name="shop" />
* '''Detachable Compute Pack''': The headset features a detachable x86 compute module with specifications comparable to a premium office laptop.<ref name="roadtovr-kickstarter" />
* '''Linux-Based Computing''': Unlike most VR headsets that run Android or proprietary operating systems, the Simula One runs a full Linux desktop environment.<ref name="about" />
* '''AR Passthrough Mode''': The headset includes cameras that allow users to see their surroundings, such as keyboards and physical objects, without removing the headset.<ref name="roadtovr-kickstarter" />
* '''Eye and Hand Tracking''': Users can control cursor movement with eye gaze and manipulate windows using hand gestures.<ref name="shop" />
* '''PC Tethering''': While designed as a standalone device, the headset can be tethered to a Windows or Linux PC for gaming and other applications.<ref name="shop" />

== Business Model and Target Market ==

SimulaVR targets a niche market of professionals who use Linux for work-related tasks, particularly programmers, software engineers, and other knowledge workers.<ref name="roadtovr-kickstarter" /> The company positions their product as a potential replacement for traditional PCs and laptops, offering advantages such as unlimited virtual screen space, improved focus, outdoor usability without screen glare, enhanced privacy, and greater freedom of movement.<ref name="about" />

The initial pricing structure for the Simula One was as follows:
* Kickstarter price: $2,799 (MSRP: $3,500)
* Early Bird units (limited number): $2,499
* Tethered-Only version: $1,999<ref name="ghosthowls" />

After switching from Kickstarter to direct pre-orders, the company reduced these prices by $100 and offered a $1,500 half-deposit option to reserve headsets.<ref name="roadtovr-preorders" />

The company has acknowledged that their prices are high due to upfront costs and low economies of scale. To accommodate users who couldn't afford the headset but wanted to support the project, they also offered less expensive items such as keyboard aprons, Tux plushies, and VR docking stations.<ref name="ghosthowls" />

== VRC Concept ==

SimulaVR introduced the term "VR Computer" (VRC) to distinguish their product from gaming-focused VR headsets. According to the company, VRCs offer several advantages over traditional computers:<ref name="about" />

* '''Unlimited Screen Space''': VRCs can provide an unlimited number of virtual screens of any size.
* '''Enhanced Focus''': The immersive nature of VR can improve work focus and concentration, described by the company as "noise-cancelling headphones for your eyes."
* '''Outdoor Usability''': Unlike laptops, VRCs can be used outdoors without screen glare issues.
* '''Privacy''': VRCs provide greater privacy as others cannot see what's on your screen.
* '''Space Efficiency''': The compact design of VRCs requires less desk space than traditional computers.
* '''Ergonomics''': VRCs allow for greater freedom of movement and potentially better posture, as users can work while sitting, standing, or even lying down.

== SimulaVR and the Linux Community ==

SimulaVR has positioned itself as a supporter of open-source software and the Linux community. The company's software, including SimulaOS, is open-source and available on GitHub.<ref name="github" /> Their decision to build a Linux-based VR system, rather than using a more common platform like Android, reflects their commitment to open-source principles and their focus on providing a full desktop computing experience in VR.<ref name="about" />

The company's headset is designed to run any application that works on Linux Desktop, including popular software like Firefox, Chrome, LibreOffice, Emacs, and Vim.<ref name="shop" /> This compatibility with existing Linux applications is a key selling point for the Simula One, as it allows users to continue using their preferred software while taking advantage of the benefits of VR.

== Development and Current Status ==

SimulaVR maintains an active presence on GitHub, where they continue to develop and update their software.<ref name="github-org">GitHub. "SimulaVR". https://github.com/SimulaVR</ref> The company has a philosophy of providing frequent, often technical updates about their projects, keeping their community informed about development progress.<ref name="about" />

As of 2024, the company continues to work on shipping their Simula One headsets. The initial delivery timeframe was projected to begin in Q4 2022, with a guarantee of shipping all headsets before the end of 2023.<ref name="roadtovr-preorders" /> The current status of deliveries can be found on the company's website, where they maintain an updated project timeline.<ref name="about" />

== References ==
<references>
<ref name="about">SimulaVR. "About". https://simulavr.com/about/</ref>
<ref name="ghosthowls">The Ghost Howls. "Simula One aims at becoming your portable Linux VR computer". January 28, 2022. https://skarredghost.com/2022/01/28/simulavr-simula-one-linux-vr/</ref>
<ref name="github">GitHub. "SimulaVR/Simula: Linux VR Desktop". https://github.com/SimulaVR/Simula</ref>
<ref name="github-org">GitHub. "SimulaVR". https://github.com/SimulaVR</ref>
<ref name="roadtovr-kickstarter">Road to VR. "Simula One is a Standalone VR Headset Natively Running Linux Desktop, Kickstarter in January". December 15, 2021. https://www.roadtovr.com/simula-one-linux-vr-headset-kickstarter/</ref>
<ref name="roadtovr-preorders">Road to VR. "Linux-based Standalone VR Headset Ditches Kickstarter & Opens Direct Preorders". February 14, 2022. https://www.roadtovr.com/simula-one-vr-linux-standalone-kickstarter/</ref>
<ref name="shop">SimulaVR Store. "SimulaVR Store". https://shop.simulavr.com/</ref>
</references>