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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Bigscreen Beyond
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
Line 5: Line 6:
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]]
|Creator = [[Bigscreen]]
|Developer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Developer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Manufacturer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Manufacturer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Announcement Date = February 2023
|Announcement Date = February 2023
|Release Date = Q3 2023
|Release Date = Q3 2023
|Price = $999 USD
|Price = $999
|Website = https://store.bigscreenvr.com/products/bigscreen-beyond
|Website = https://store.bigscreenvr.com/products/bigscreen-beyond
|Successor = [[Bigscreen Beyond 2e]]
|Versions = Bigscreen Beyond, Bigscreen Beyond 2, Bigscreen Beyond 2e
|Display = 2× Micro-OLED
|Requires = Gaming PC, SteamVR base stations
|Resolution = 2560×2560 per eye (5120×2560 combined)
|Predecessor = None
|Pixel Size = 7.2 μm
|Successor = [[Bigscreen Beyond 2]]
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Operating System = [[Windows]] (via SteamVR)
|Field of View = 90° × 93°
|Chipset = N/A (tethered PCVR)
|PPD = 28 PPD
|CPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|IPD Range = Custom (factory set)
|GPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A
|Memory = N/A
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Dual micro-OLED (Samsung)
|Subpixel Layout = PenTile Diamond
|Peak Brightness = ~100 nits
|Resolution = 2560 × 2560 per eye (5120 × 2560 combined)
|Pixel Density = ~32 PPD
|Refresh Rate = 75Hz, 90Hz
|Persistence = Ultra-low persistence (<0.5ms)
|Field of View = 90° (horizontal) × 93° (vertical)
|Horizontal FoV = 90°
|Vertical FoV = 93°
|Average Pixel Density = ~32 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = ~32 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Custom pancake lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Optics = Custom pancake lenses
|IPD Range = Factory-set (based on 3D face scan)
|Tracking = Outside-in (SteamVR Lighthouse)
|Adjustable Diopter = Via prescription lens inserts
|Passthrough = No
|Tracking = 6DoF outside-in (SteamVR Tracking)
|Tracking Frequency = 1000Hz (base station rate)
|Base Stations = Required (SteamVR 1.0 or 2.0)
|Eye Tracking = No
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Audio = Optional (3.5mm jack)
|Body Tracking = Via SteamVR trackers
|Connectivity = DisplayPort, USB
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Weight = 127g
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Design = Custom-fit (3D face scan)
|Update Rate = 1000Hz
|Tracking Volume = Dependent on base station setup
|Play Space = Roomscale (up to 10m × 10m with 2.0 stations)
|Latency = <10ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = None built-in (external required)
|Microphone = None built-in
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Via optional audio strap
|Camera = None
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = USB-powered
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = ~140mm × 55mm × 50mm (visor)
|Weight = 127g (visor only), 170-185g (with strap)
|Material = Plastic, 3D-printed facial interface
|Headstrap = Multiple options (rigid, comfort strap)
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black
|Sensors = IMU (gyroscope, accelerometer)
|Input = SteamVR controllers (Index, Vive, etc.)
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Bigscreen Beyond''' is a [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Bigscreen]], announced in February 2023 and shipped in Q3 2023. Marketed as "the world's smallest VR headset," the Beyond weighs just 127 grams—approximately 6× lighter than competing headsets—and measures less than 1 inch at its thinnest point. It features dual Micro-OLED displays with 2560×2560 resolution per eye (2-3× higher than most competitors), custom pancake optics, and a unique custom-fit design manufactured based on each customer's 3D face scan. The Beyond requires SteamVR base stations for tracking and is tethered to a PC.
The '''Bigscreen Beyond''' is an ultra-compact [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Bigscreen]], announced in February 2023 and released later in 2023 at a price of $999. Weighing just 127 grams for the visor alone—less than many smartphones—the Beyond represents a radical departure from traditional VR headset design, achieving its minimal form factor through custom-manufactured facial interfaces based on individual 3D face scans. The headset features dual Samsung micro-OLED displays with 2560 × 2560 resolution per eye and custom pancake lenses, delivering premium visual quality while using SteamVR base station tracking for precise positional tracking. The Beyond's extreme emphasis on comfort and portability has made it popular among VR enthusiasts, sim racers, and users who found traditional headsets too heavy for extended use.


== History and Development ==
== History and Development ==


Bigscreen, known primarily for their social VR cinema application, announced the Beyond in February 2023 as their first hardware product. The company designed the headset to solve what they saw as fundamental problems in VR: size, weight, and resolution. By using cutting-edge Micro-OLED displays and custom pancake optics, they achieved an unprecedented form factor at the expense of features like inside-out tracking and adjustable IPD.<ref name="techpowerup">{{cite web |url=https://www.techpowerup.com/304754/bigscreen-introduces-beyond-the-worlds-smallest-vr-headset/ |title=Bigscreen Introduces Beyond—the World's Smallest VR Headset |publisher=TechPowerUp |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Bigscreen Origins ===
Bigscreen Inc. was founded in 2014 by Darshan Shankar and others, initially developing the Bigscreen VR application—a social virtual reality platform for watching movies, gaming, and hanging out in virtual environments. The application became popular across multiple VR platforms, giving the team deep insight into user pain points with existing VR hardware.
 
=== Hardware Ambition ===
Bigscreen's hardware development began with the observation that existing VR headsets were too heavy, too bulky, and required compromise between visual quality and comfort. The team set out to create what they called "the world's smallest VR headset" by rethinking every aspect of headset design.
 
=== Custom Face Scanning Approach ===
Traditional VR headsets use a one-size-fits-all approach with adjustable IPD mechanisms and universal facial interfaces. Bigscreen took a radical different approach:
* Each customer submits a 3D scan of their face
* IPD is measured from the scan
* A custom facial interface is 3D printed specifically for each customer
* The display IPD is factory-set based on measured IPD
 
This approach eliminates IPD adjustment mechanisms, facial interface padding options, and much of the structural bulk needed to accommodate diverse face shapes.
 
=== Design Philosophy ===
The Beyond embodies a specific philosophy:
* '''Minimize weight at all costs''': Every gram scrutinized
* '''Premium displays''': No compromise on visual quality
* '''External tracking''': Leverage existing SteamVR infrastructure
* '''No integrated audio''': Users provide their own preferred solution
* '''Customization over universality''': Better fit through personalization
 
== Display Technology ==
 
=== Samsung Micro-OLED Panels ===
The Beyond uses premium Samsung micro-OLED displays:
* '''Resolution''': 2560 × 2560 per eye
* '''Total Resolution''': Over 13 million pixels (5120 × 2560)
* '''Panel Size''': 1-inch diagonal per eye
* '''Technology''': Active-matrix organic LED on silicon backplane
* '''Subpixel Layout''': PenTile Diamond arrangement
 
=== OLED Advantages ===
Micro-OLED technology delivers:
* '''True blacks''': Zero light emission when off
* '''Infinite contrast''': Perfect blacks enable HDR-like experience
* '''Fast response''': Near-instantaneous pixel switching
* '''Vibrant colors''': Wide color gamut coverage
* '''Low persistence''': Reduces motion blur significantly
 
=== Refresh Rates ===
Supported refresh rates:
* 75Hz: Lower GPU requirements
* 90Hz: Standard VR refresh rate
* Smooth motion for most content
 
=== HDR Capability ===
The OLED panels support HDR content:
* Wide dynamic range between darks and highlights
* Particularly impressive in dark scenes
* Enhanced movie and video viewing
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== Custom Pancake Lenses ===
Compact pancake lens design enables slim form factor:
* Multiple polarization layers fold optical path
* Significantly shorter focal length than Fresnel alternatives
* Clear edge-to-edge viewing
* Minimal god rays compared to Fresnel lenses
 
=== Field of View ===
Balanced FOV for the size:
* '''Horizontal''': 90°
* '''Vertical''': 93°
* Slightly narrower than larger headsets
* Acceptable tradeoff for extreme weight reduction
 
=== Fixed IPD ===
Factory-set interpupillary distance:
* Measured from customer's 3D face scan
* Optimal clarity for that specific user
* No adjustment mechanism (reduces weight and complexity)
* Cannot be shared effectively between users with different IPDs
 
== Custom Facial Interface ==


In March 2025, Bigscreen announced the [[Bigscreen Beyond 2e]] with improved field of view, manual IPD adjustment, and optional eye tracking.<ref name="wikipedia">{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bigscreen_Beyond |title=Bigscreen Beyond |publisher=Wikipedia |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== 3D Face Scanning Process ===
Customers must complete face scanning before order:
* Use Bigscreen app on iPhone with Face ID
* Capture multiple angles of face
* System generates facial geometry
* Custom interface manufactured to match


== Design and Hardware ==
=== 3D Printed Interface ===
Each facial interface is unique:
* Manufactured to match individual face shape
* Washable material
* Light-blocking seal
* No adjustments or padding needed


=== Form Factor ===
=== Limitations ===
The custom approach has tradeoffs:
* Cannot easily share headset with others
* Replacement interfaces required for different users
* Higher barrier to purchase
* Longer order-to-delivery time


Revolutionary miniaturization:
== Weight and Comfort ==


* '''127 grams''' total weight (6× lighter than competitors)
=== Ultra-Light Visor ===
* Less than 1 inch at thinnest point
Remarkable weight achievement:
* Ski goggle-like form factor
* '''Visor alone''': 127 grams
* Custom-fit to each customer's face
* '''With standard strap''': 170-185 grams depending on strap choice
* Unprecedented comfort for extended use
* '''Comparison''': Lighter than Meta Quest 3 (515g) or Valve Index (809g)


=== Display ===
=== Comfort Benefits ===
Low weight enables:
* Extended multi-hour sessions without fatigue
* Reduced neck strain
* Better for users with neck or shoulder issues
* More natural head movement


High-resolution Micro-OLED technology:
=== Strap Options ===
Multiple head mounting options:
* '''Included strap''': Basic rigid strap
* '''Comfort strap''': Optional padded alternative
* '''Third-party options''': Various aftermarket solutions


* Dual Micro-OLED displays
== Tracking System ==
* '''2560×2560 resolution per eye''' (2-3× higher than Valve Index)
* 5120×2560 combined resolution
* 90 Hz refresh rate
* 90° × 93° field of view
* '''28 pixels per degree (PPD)'''
* 7.2 μm pixel size
* RGB stripe subpixels
* High fill factor—no visible screen door effect
* 18mm display width (extremely compact)


=== Optics ===
=== SteamVR Base Station Tracking ===
The Beyond uses external tracking:
* '''Compatibility''': SteamVR 1.0 and 2.0 base stations
* '''Accuracy''': Sub-millimeter positional precision
* '''Latency''': Under 1ms tracking latency
* '''Update Rate''': Up to 1000Hz


Custom pancake optical design:
=== Why External Tracking ===
The choice of outside-in tracking serves the weight goal:
* No tracking cameras add weight to headset
* No processing overhead for optical tracking
* Leverages existing SteamVR ecosystem
* Highest possible tracking accuracy


* Pancake lenses (not Fresnel)
=== Base Station Requirements ===
* Compact optical path
Users need to provide:
* Wide field of view in small form factor
* Minimum 2 base stations (1.0 or 2.0)
* Note: 90% light loss from pancake design (compensated by bright OLEDs)
* Mounting points around play space
* Power outlets for each station
* Line-of-sight to headset


=== Custom-Fit Manufacturing ===
=== Controller Support ===
Works with SteamVR controllers:
* Valve Index controllers (recommended)
* HTC Vive controllers
* Any SteamVR-compatible controllers
* Third-party tracked devices


Unique personalization process:
== Audio System ==


* '''3D face scan required''' before manufacturing
=== No Built-In Audio ===
* iPhone XR or newer needed for scan
The Beyond includes no integrated audio:
* Bigscreen iPhone app captures face shape
* Reduces weight
* Eye position measured for optical alignment
* Users choose preferred solution
* IPD configured at factory (not adjustable)
* Must bring own headphones/earbuds
* Each Beyond custom-made per customer
* Will not fit well on other users' faces


=== Tracking ===
=== Audio Options ===
Users typically use:
* Wireless earbuds
* Wired IEMs (in-ear monitors)
* Over-ear headphones
* Optional Bigscreen audio strap accessory


Uses SteamVR ecosystem:
=== Optional Audio Strap ===
Bigscreen offers audio strap accessory:
* Integrated speakers near ears
* Similar approach to Index audio
* Adds to total weight
* Additional purchase required


* Outside-in tracking via Lighthouse base stations
== Connectivity ==
* 6 Degrees of Freedom
* Requires SteamVR 1.0 or 2.0 base stations
* Compatible with Valve Index controllers


=== Audio ===
=== DisplayPort Connection ===
Primary video interface:
* DisplayPort 1.4
* High bandwidth for full resolution at 90Hz
* Standard PC graphics card compatibility


* 3.5mm audio jack
=== USB Connection ===
* No built-in speakers (external audio required)
Secondary data and power:
* Supports any 3.5mm headphones
* USB-A for tracking data
* Provides power to headset
* No separate power adapter needed


== Limitations ==
=== Cable ===
Tethered operation:
* Combined DisplayPort + USB cable
* Cable management required
* No wireless option available


Features not included:
== Target Audience ==


* No eye tracking (added in Beyond 2e)
=== Sim Racing and Flight Sim ===
* No face tracking
Particularly popular with simulator users:
* No inside-out tracking (requires base stations)
* Light weight reduces neck fatigue during long sessions
* No wireless capability
* Sharp displays for reading gauges and text
* No adjustable IPD (factory set)
* SteamVR tracking works well in seated experiences
* Custom-fit means no sharing
* Premium visuals for immersion
* PC tethered only


== Specifications ==
=== VR Enthusiasts ===
Appeal to experienced VR users who:
* Already own SteamVR base stations
* Prioritize comfort over features
* Value display quality
* Want dedicated PC VR headset


=== Users With Comfort Issues ===
Attractive to users who:
* Found other headsets too heavy
* Have neck or shoulder problems
* Need extended wear for work
* Prefer minimal bulk
== Comparison with Traditional Headsets ==
=== vs. Valve Index ===
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Specification !! Details
! Feature !! Bigscreen Beyond !! Valve Index
|-
| Weight || 127g (visor) || 809g
|-
| Resolution per eye || 2560 × 2560 || 1440 × 1600
|-
| Display Type || Micro-OLED || LCD
|-
| FOV || 90° || 130°
|-
| Refresh Rate || Up to 90Hz || Up to 144Hz
|-
| Built-in Audio || No || Yes
|-
| IPD Adjustment || Factory-set || Manual
|-
| Price || $999 || $999
|}
 
=== vs. Meta Quest 3 ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
| Resolution || 2560×2560 per eye (5120×2560)
! Feature !! Bigscreen Beyond !! Meta Quest 3
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
| Weight || 127g (visor) || 515g
|-
|-
| Field of View || 90° × 93°
| Standalone || No || Yes
|-
|-
| PPD || 28
| Tracking || External (base stations) || Inside-out
|-
|-
| Tracking || SteamVR (external base stations)
| Display Type || Micro-OLED || LCD
|-
|-
| Weight || 127g
| Resolution per eye || 2560 × 2560 || 2064 × 2208
|-
|-
| Price || $999 USD
| Passthrough || No || Yes
|}
|}


== Reception ==
== Bigscreen Beyond 2 ==


'''Praise:'''
In 2025, Bigscreen announced the Beyond 2 with improvements:
* World's smallest VR headset
* '''Weight''': 107 grams (16% lighter)
* 127g weight revolutionary for comfort
* '''FOV''': Increased to 108-116°
* 2-3× higher resolution than most competitors
* '''Eye Tracking''': Now included
* 28 PPD eliminates screen door effect
* '''IPD''': Adjustable (no longer factory-fixed)
* RGB stripe Micro-OLED displays
* '''Halo Mount''': New mounting option
* Pancake optics in compact form factor
* Custom-fit maximizes comfort and optics
* SteamVR compatibility with existing equipment
* Ideal for simulation enthusiasts
* "Unprecedented form factor"


'''Criticism:'''
== Pricing ==
* $999 price (headset only)
* Requires SteamVR base stations
* No adjustable IPD (factory set)
* Cannot share with others (custom-fit)
* No eye or face tracking
* No inside-out tracking
* No wireless option
* iPhone required for face scan
* Missing "next-gen" features<ref name="panox">{{cite web |url=https://www.panoxdisplay.com/application/micro-oled-application-bigscreen-beyond.html |title=Micro OLED Application: Bigscreen Beyond, smallest VR |publisher=Panox Display |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


<ref name="hypebeast">{{cite web |url=https://hypebeast.com/2023/2/bigscreen-beyond-vr-headset-smallest-release-info |title=Bigscreen's Debut VR Headset Said to Be World's Smallest |publisher=Hypebeast |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Configuration !! Price !! Notes
|-
| Bigscreen Beyond || $999 || Headset only, requires base stations
|-
| Base Stations || ~$150-200 each || Sold separately
|-
| Prescription Inserts || Varies || Third-party (VR Optician, etc.)
|}
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Specification !! Details
|-
| Display || Dual Samsung micro-OLED, 2560 × 2560 per eye
|-
| Total Pixels || 13.1 million
|-
| FOV || 90° × 93°
|-
| Refresh Rate || 75Hz / 90Hz
|-
| Tracking || SteamVR outside-in (base stations required)
|-
| IPD || Factory-set via 3D face scan
|-
| Built-in Audio || None
|-
| Weight || 127g (visor), 170-185g (with strap)
|-
| Connection || DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
|-
| Price || $999
|}


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Bigscreen Beyond 2e]]
* [[Bigscreen]]
* [[Valve Index]]
* [[Bigscreen Beyond 2]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Varjo Aero]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[HP Reverb G2]]
* [[Micro-OLED]]
* [[Pancake Lenses]]


== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:PC VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Bigscreen]]
[[Category:Bigscreen]]
[[Category:SteamVR]]
[[Category:Micro-OLED]]
[[Category:2023 in technology]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]

Latest revision as of 03:06, 8 January 2026

Bigscreen Beyond
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype PC VR
Platform SteamVR
Creator Bigscreen
Developer Bigscreen
Manufacturer Bigscreen
Announcement Date February 2023
Release Date Q3 2023
Price $999
Website https://store.bigscreenvr.com/products/bigscreen-beyond
Versions Bigscreen Beyond, Bigscreen Beyond 2, Bigscreen Beyond 2e
Requires Gaming PC, SteamVR base stations
Predecessor None
Successor Bigscreen Beyond 2
System
Operating System Windows (via SteamVR)
Chipset N/A (tethered PCVR)
CPU N/A (PC-powered)
GPU N/A (PC-powered)
Storage
Storage N/A
Memory N/A
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display Dual micro-OLED (Samsung)
Subpixel Layout PenTile Diamond
Peak Brightness ~100 nits
Resolution 2560 × 2560 per eye (5120 × 2560 combined)
Pixel Density ~32 PPD
Refresh Rate 75Hz, 90Hz
Persistence Ultra-low persistence (<0.5ms)
Image
Field of View 90° (horizontal) × 93° (vertical)
Horizontal FoV 90°
Vertical FoV 93°
Average Pixel Density ~32 PPD
Peak Pixel Density ~32 PPD
Foveated Rendering No
Optics
Optics Custom pancake lenses
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range Factory-set (based on 3D face scan)
Adjustable Diopter Via prescription lens inserts
Passthrough No
Tracking
Tracking 6DoF outside-in (SteamVR Tracking)
Tracking Frequency 1000Hz (base station rate)
Base Stations Required (SteamVR 1.0 or 2.0)
Eye Tracking No
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking No
Body Tracking Via SteamVR trackers
Rotational Tracking Yes
Positional Tracking Yes
Update Rate 1000Hz
Tracking Volume Dependent on base station setup
Play Space Roomscale (up to 10m × 10m with 2.0 stations)
Latency <10ms motion-to-photon
Audio
Audio None built-in (external required)
Microphone None built-in
3.5mm Audio Jack Via optional audio strap
Camera None
Connectivity
Connectivity DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
Ports DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
Wired Video Yes (DisplayPort)
Wireless Video No
WiFi No
Bluetooth No
Power USB-powered
Battery Capacity N/A
Battery Life N/A (tethered)
Charge Time N/A
Device
Dimensions ~140mm × 55mm × 50mm (visor)
Weight 127g (visor only), 170-185g (with strap)
Material Plastic, 3D-printed facial interface
Headstrap Multiple options (rigid, comfort strap)
Haptics No
Color Black
Sensors IMU (gyroscope, accelerometer)
Input SteamVR controllers (Index, Vive, etc.)
Compliance FCC, CE

Property "Operating System" (as page type) with input value "Windows]] (via SteamVR)" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process. Property "Persistence" (as page type) with input value "Ultra-low persistence (" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process. Property "Latency" (as page type) with input value "" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process.


The Bigscreen Beyond is an ultra-compact PC VR head-mounted display developed by Bigscreen, announced in February 2023 and released later in 2023 at a price of $999. Weighing just 127 grams for the visor alone—less than many smartphones—the Beyond represents a radical departure from traditional VR headset design, achieving its minimal form factor through custom-manufactured facial interfaces based on individual 3D face scans. The headset features dual Samsung micro-OLED displays with 2560 × 2560 resolution per eye and custom pancake lenses, delivering premium visual quality while using SteamVR base station tracking for precise positional tracking. The Beyond's extreme emphasis on comfort and portability has made it popular among VR enthusiasts, sim racers, and users who found traditional headsets too heavy for extended use.

History and Development

Bigscreen Origins

Bigscreen Inc. was founded in 2014 by Darshan Shankar and others, initially developing the Bigscreen VR application—a social virtual reality platform for watching movies, gaming, and hanging out in virtual environments. The application became popular across multiple VR platforms, giving the team deep insight into user pain points with existing VR hardware.

Hardware Ambition

Bigscreen's hardware development began with the observation that existing VR headsets were too heavy, too bulky, and required compromise between visual quality and comfort. The team set out to create what they called "the world's smallest VR headset" by rethinking every aspect of headset design.

Custom Face Scanning Approach

Traditional VR headsets use a one-size-fits-all approach with adjustable IPD mechanisms and universal facial interfaces. Bigscreen took a radical different approach:

  • Each customer submits a 3D scan of their face
  • IPD is measured from the scan
  • A custom facial interface is 3D printed specifically for each customer
  • The display IPD is factory-set based on measured IPD

This approach eliminates IPD adjustment mechanisms, facial interface padding options, and much of the structural bulk needed to accommodate diverse face shapes.

Design Philosophy

The Beyond embodies a specific philosophy:

  • Minimize weight at all costs: Every gram scrutinized
  • Premium displays: No compromise on visual quality
  • External tracking: Leverage existing SteamVR infrastructure
  • No integrated audio: Users provide their own preferred solution
  • Customization over universality: Better fit through personalization

Display Technology

Samsung Micro-OLED Panels

The Beyond uses premium Samsung micro-OLED displays:

  • Resolution: 2560 × 2560 per eye
  • Total Resolution: Over 13 million pixels (5120 × 2560)
  • Panel Size: 1-inch diagonal per eye
  • Technology: Active-matrix organic LED on silicon backplane
  • Subpixel Layout: PenTile Diamond arrangement

OLED Advantages

Micro-OLED technology delivers:

  • True blacks: Zero light emission when off
  • Infinite contrast: Perfect blacks enable HDR-like experience
  • Fast response: Near-instantaneous pixel switching
  • Vibrant colors: Wide color gamut coverage
  • Low persistence: Reduces motion blur significantly

Refresh Rates

Supported refresh rates:

  • 75Hz: Lower GPU requirements
  • 90Hz: Standard VR refresh rate
  • Smooth motion for most content

HDR Capability

The OLED panels support HDR content:

  • Wide dynamic range between darks and highlights
  • Particularly impressive in dark scenes
  • Enhanced movie and video viewing

Optical System

Custom Pancake Lenses

Compact pancake lens design enables slim form factor:

  • Multiple polarization layers fold optical path
  • Significantly shorter focal length than Fresnel alternatives
  • Clear edge-to-edge viewing
  • Minimal god rays compared to Fresnel lenses

Field of View

Balanced FOV for the size:

  • Horizontal: 90°
  • Vertical: 93°
  • Slightly narrower than larger headsets
  • Acceptable tradeoff for extreme weight reduction

Fixed IPD

Factory-set interpupillary distance:

  • Measured from customer's 3D face scan
  • Optimal clarity for that specific user
  • No adjustment mechanism (reduces weight and complexity)
  • Cannot be shared effectively between users with different IPDs

Custom Facial Interface

3D Face Scanning Process

Customers must complete face scanning before order:

  • Use Bigscreen app on iPhone with Face ID
  • Capture multiple angles of face
  • System generates facial geometry
  • Custom interface manufactured to match

3D Printed Interface

Each facial interface is unique:

  • Manufactured to match individual face shape
  • Washable material
  • Light-blocking seal
  • No adjustments or padding needed

Limitations

The custom approach has tradeoffs:

  • Cannot easily share headset with others
  • Replacement interfaces required for different users
  • Higher barrier to purchase
  • Longer order-to-delivery time

Weight and Comfort

Ultra-Light Visor

Remarkable weight achievement:

  • Visor alone: 127 grams
  • With standard strap: 170-185 grams depending on strap choice
  • Comparison: Lighter than Meta Quest 3 (515g) or Valve Index (809g)

Comfort Benefits

Low weight enables:

  • Extended multi-hour sessions without fatigue
  • Reduced neck strain
  • Better for users with neck or shoulder issues
  • More natural head movement

Strap Options

Multiple head mounting options:

  • Included strap: Basic rigid strap
  • Comfort strap: Optional padded alternative
  • Third-party options: Various aftermarket solutions

Tracking System

SteamVR Base Station Tracking

The Beyond uses external tracking:

  • Compatibility: SteamVR 1.0 and 2.0 base stations
  • Accuracy: Sub-millimeter positional precision
  • Latency: Under 1ms tracking latency
  • Update Rate: Up to 1000Hz

Why External Tracking

The choice of outside-in tracking serves the weight goal:

  • No tracking cameras add weight to headset
  • No processing overhead for optical tracking
  • Leverages existing SteamVR ecosystem
  • Highest possible tracking accuracy

Base Station Requirements

Users need to provide:

  • Minimum 2 base stations (1.0 or 2.0)
  • Mounting points around play space
  • Power outlets for each station
  • Line-of-sight to headset

Controller Support

Works with SteamVR controllers:

  • Valve Index controllers (recommended)
  • HTC Vive controllers
  • Any SteamVR-compatible controllers
  • Third-party tracked devices

Audio System

No Built-In Audio

The Beyond includes no integrated audio:

  • Reduces weight
  • Users choose preferred solution
  • Must bring own headphones/earbuds

Audio Options

Users typically use:

  • Wireless earbuds
  • Wired IEMs (in-ear monitors)
  • Over-ear headphones
  • Optional Bigscreen audio strap accessory

Optional Audio Strap

Bigscreen offers audio strap accessory:

  • Integrated speakers near ears
  • Similar approach to Index audio
  • Adds to total weight
  • Additional purchase required

Connectivity

DisplayPort Connection

Primary video interface:

  • DisplayPort 1.4
  • High bandwidth for full resolution at 90Hz
  • Standard PC graphics card compatibility

USB Connection

Secondary data and power:

  • USB-A for tracking data
  • Provides power to headset
  • No separate power adapter needed

Cable

Tethered operation:

  • Combined DisplayPort + USB cable
  • Cable management required
  • No wireless option available

Target Audience

Sim Racing and Flight Sim

Particularly popular with simulator users:

  • Light weight reduces neck fatigue during long sessions
  • Sharp displays for reading gauges and text
  • SteamVR tracking works well in seated experiences
  • Premium visuals for immersion

VR Enthusiasts

Appeal to experienced VR users who:

  • Already own SteamVR base stations
  • Prioritize comfort over features
  • Value display quality
  • Want dedicated PC VR headset

Users With Comfort Issues

Attractive to users who:

  • Found other headsets too heavy
  • Have neck or shoulder problems
  • Need extended wear for work
  • Prefer minimal bulk

Comparison with Traditional Headsets

vs. Valve Index

Feature Bigscreen Beyond Valve Index
Weight 127g (visor) 809g
Resolution per eye 2560 × 2560 1440 × 1600
Display Type Micro-OLED LCD
FOV 90° 130°
Refresh Rate Up to 90Hz Up to 144Hz
Built-in Audio No Yes
IPD Adjustment Factory-set Manual
Price $999 $999

vs. Meta Quest 3

Feature Bigscreen Beyond Meta Quest 3
Weight 127g (visor) 515g
Standalone No Yes
Tracking External (base stations) Inside-out
Display Type Micro-OLED LCD
Resolution per eye 2560 × 2560 2064 × 2208
Passthrough No Yes

Bigscreen Beyond 2

In 2025, Bigscreen announced the Beyond 2 with improvements:

  • Weight: 107 grams (16% lighter)
  • FOV: Increased to 108-116°
  • Eye Tracking: Now included
  • IPD: Adjustable (no longer factory-fixed)
  • Halo Mount: New mounting option

Pricing

Configuration Price Notes
Bigscreen Beyond $999 Headset only, requires base stations
Base Stations ~$150-200 each Sold separately
Prescription Inserts Varies Third-party (VR Optician, etc.)

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Details
Display Dual Samsung micro-OLED, 2560 × 2560 per eye
Total Pixels 13.1 million
FOV 90° × 93°
Refresh Rate 75Hz / 90Hz
Tracking SteamVR outside-in (base stations required)
IPD Factory-set via 3D face scan
Built-in Audio None
Weight 127g (visor), 170-185g (with strap)
Connection DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
Price $999

See Also

References

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