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Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
 
Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
 
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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = PICO 4 Ultra
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-Mounted Display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[Standalone MR]]
|Subtype = [[Standalone VR]]
|Platform = [[PICO OS]] (Android-based)
|Platform = [[PICO OS]]
|Developer = [[PICO]] ([[ByteDance]])
|Creator = [[ByteDance]]
|Developer = [[PICO]]
|Manufacturer = [[PICO]]
|Manufacturer = [[PICO]]
|Release Date = September 2024
|Announcement Date = August 2024
|Price = €549
|Release Date = September 2, 2024
|Price = €549 / $599
|Website = https://www.picoxr.com/global/products/pico4-ultra
|Website = https://www.picoxr.com/global/products/pico4-ultra
|Versions = PICO 4 Ultra, PICO 4 Ultra Enterprise
|Requires = PICO account
|Predecessor = [[PICO 4]]
|Predecessor = [[PICO 4]]
|Successor =
|Operating System = [[PICO OS]] (Android-based)
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2]]
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2]]
|Memory = 12 GB RAM
|CPU = Octa-core Kryo (1× 3.2 GHz + 3× 2.8 GHz + 4× 2.0 GHz)
|Storage = 256 GB
|GPU = Adreno 740
|Display = LCD (pancake lenses)
|HPU =
|Resolution = 2160x2160 per eye
|Storage = 256GB
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Memory = 12GB LPDDR5
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Dual LCD
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Peak Brightness = Improved (25% brighter than PICO 4)
|Resolution = 2160 × 2160 per eye (4320 × 2160 combined)
|Pixel Density = 1200 PPI (panel), ~20 PPD (effective)
|Refresh Rate = 72Hz, 90Hz
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 105°
|Field of View = 105°
|PPD = 20.6 pixels per degree
|Horizontal FoV = ~96°
|Vertical FoV = ~96°
|Average Pixel Density = ~20 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = ~20 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = Fixed foveated rendering
|Optics = Pancake lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out)
|IPD Range = 62-72mm (stepless adjustment)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses spacer included)
|Passthrough = Yes (full-color stereo, 32MP cameras)
|Tracking = 6DoF inside-out
|Tracking Frequency = 72Hz (MR alignment)
|Base Stations = None required
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Passthrough = Color (32 MP cameras)
|Body Tracking = Yes (via Motion Tracker accessories)
|Depth Sensor = iToF
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Spatial Video = 2048x1536 @ 60fps
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Audio = Spatial audio
|Update Rate = 90Hz
|Controllers = Ring-free 6DoF
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|IPD = 58-72mm
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Battery = 5,700 mAh (45W fast charging)
|Latency = 5ms (wireless streaming)
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth
|Audio = Dual stereo speakers
|Weight = 580g (304g front + 276g rear)
|Microphone = Yes (dual microphones)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = 4× tracking cameras, 2× 32MP color passthrough cameras, 1× iToF depth camera
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.2
|Ports = USB-C
|Wired Video = Yes (USB-C DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = Yes (Wi-Fi 7 streaming at 3.0 Gbps)
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be)
|Bluetooth = Bluetooth 5.2
|Power = Internal battery
|Battery Capacity = 5300mAh
|Battery Life = 2.5-3 hours
|Charge Time = ~2 hours (45W fast charging)
|Dimensions = 163mm × 75mm × 310mm
|Weight = 580g (front: 304g, rear: 276g)
|Material = Plastic, fabric
|Headstrap = Halo strap with rear battery
|Haptics = Controllers with haptic feedback
|Color = White/Gray
|Sensors = 4× tracking cameras, 2× 32MP RGB cameras, iToF depth sensor, proximity sensor, IMU
|Input = Controllers, hand tracking, voice
|Compliance = CE, FCC
}}
}}


The '''PICO 4 Ultra''' is a standalone [[mixed reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[PICO]] (owned by [[ByteDance]]), released in Europe on September 2, 2024 for €549. PICO's first all-in-one VR and MR headset, the PICO 4 Ultra features the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor (same as Meta Quest 3), 12 GB RAM, high-quality color passthrough via dual 32 MP cameras with iToF depth sensing, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity with 5ms latency streaming, and spatial video capture. Available in Europe and Asia but not the US, the PICO 4 Ultra positions itself as a direct Quest 3 competitor with strong mixed reality capabilities.
The '''PICO 4 Ultra''' is a [[standalone VR|standalone]] [[mixed reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[PICO]], a subsidiary of [[ByteDance]], announced in August 2024 and released on September 2, 2024 in Europe at a price of €549. Positioned as a direct competitor to the [[Meta Quest 3]], the PICO 4 Ultra features the same [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2]] processor, 12GB of RAM, dual 32-megapixel color passthrough cameras for high-quality mixed reality, and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity enabling wireless PC VR streaming at speeds exceeding 3.0 Gbps with latency as low as 5 milliseconds. The balanced weight distribution design places the battery in the rear headband, achieving comfortable 580g total weight with 304g in front and 276g in back.


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


PICO officially launched the PICO 4 Ultra in China in August 2024, followed by European availability on September 2-3, 2024. The device represents a significant upgrade from the PICO 4, adding color passthrough, improved processing power, and spatial video capabilities. As ByteDance's flagship XR device, the PICO 4 Ultra competes directly with Meta Quest 3 while maintaining regional availability in Europe and Asia.<ref name="pico">{{cite web |url=https://www.picoxr.com/global/products/pico4-ultra |title=PICO 4 Ultra |publisher=PICO |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== PICO and ByteDance ===
PICO was founded in 2015 in Beijing, China, as an independent VR hardware company. In 2021, ByteDance—the parent company of TikTok—acquired PICO for approximately $1.4 billion, significantly accelerating the company's R&D investment and global expansion efforts. Under ByteDance ownership, PICO has positioned itself as a primary competitor to Meta in the standalone VR market.


== Design and Hardware ==
=== PICO 4 Original Launch ===
The original PICO 4 launched in September 2022, offering competitive specifications at an attractive price point. With the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1, pancake lens optics, and a balanced design, the PICO 4 established the platform that the Ultra would build upon.


=== Display ===
=== Market Positioning ===
With the PICO 4 Ultra, ByteDance aimed to match Meta's Quest 3 specification-for-specification while offering competitive pricing, particularly in markets where Meta's presence is limited or restricted. The Ultra specifically addresses the original PICO 4's weaknesses: improved mixed reality capability, faster processor, and better wireless streaming.


Enhanced visual experience:
=== Regional Availability ===
The PICO 4 Ultra launched initially in Europe and Asia, with availability in the United States remaining limited due to geopolitical considerations surrounding ByteDance ownership.


* '''2160x2160 per eye''' resolution
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''LCD displays''' with pancake lenses
* '''90 Hz refresh rate'''
* '''105° field of view'''
* '''20.6 PPD''' (pixels per degree)
* '''25% brighter''' than PICO 4
* '''62% increased resolution rendering'''
* Color correction improvements


=== Processing ===
=== Balanced Weight Distribution ===
The PICO 4 Ultra continues the PICO 4 design philosophy of distributing weight between front and rear:
* '''Front weight''': 304g (optics, displays, cameras)
* '''Rear weight''': 276g (battery, counterweight)
* '''Total''': 580g
* This balance reduces facial pressure and neck strain during extended sessions


* '''[[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2]]'''
=== Pancake Lens Optics ===
* '''12 GB LPDDR5 RAM'''
The pancake lens design enables:
* '''256 GB UFS 3.1 storage'''
* Compact form factor
* Same chip as Meta Quest 3
* Reduced front-heaviness
* High-performance MR processing
* Wide sweet spot for clear viewing
* 105° field of view with minimal distortion


=== Mixed Reality Cameras ===
=== Comfort-Focused Design ===
* Soft halo strap distributes weight across head
* Adjustable tension system
* Glasses-compatible with included spacer
* Breathable facial interface materials


Advanced passthrough system:
== Display Technology ==


* '''2x 32 MP RGB cameras'''
=== LCD Panels ===
* '''iToF depth-sensing camera'''
Dual fast-switching LCD displays provide:
* '''High-quality color passthrough'''
* '''Resolution''': 2160 × 2160 per eye (4320 × 2160 total)
* '''8 MP, 22.5 PPD''' center clarity
* '''Pixel Density''': 1200 PPI panel specification
* Low distortion
* '''Refresh Rate''': 72Hz and 90Hz modes
* Stereoscopic see-through
* '''Brightness''': 25% improvement over PICO 4
* Room mapping
* '''Color Rendering''': 62% improvement in color accuracy


=== Spatial Video ===
=== Pancake Optics ===
The optical system delivers:
* 105° field of view
* Stepless IPD adjustment (62-72mm)
* Clear edge-to-edge viewing
* Reduced glare compared to Fresnel alternatives


* '''2048x1536 resolution'''
=== Visual Improvements Over PICO 4 ===
* '''60 FPS capture'''
The Ultra offers several display enhancements:
* '''50 Mbps bitrate'''
* Brighter overall image (25% increase)
* Spatial audio recording
* Better color accuracy
* Compatible with iPhone/Vision Pro content
* 62% increase in rendered resolution through software improvements
* Improved contrast handling


=== Controllers ===
== Processing Power ==


New ring-free design:
=== Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 ===
The Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2—the same chip powering Meta Quest 3—provides significant performance upgrades:
* '''CPU''': Octa-core Kryo (1× 3.2 GHz Prime + 3× 2.8 GHz Performance + 4× 2.0 GHz Efficiency)
* '''GPU''': Adreno 740 (250% improvement over XR2 Gen 1)
* '''AI Engine''': Enhanced for hand tracking and mixed reality
* '''Process Node''': 4nm for improved efficiency


* '''Ring-free controllers'''
=== Memory Configuration ===
* '''50% shorter''' than previous generation
Generous memory enables multitasking and demanding applications:
* Centaur multi-modal algorithm
* '''RAM''': 12GB LPDDR5
* HyperSense broadband linear motors
* '''Storage''': 256GB internal
* Precise tracking
* '''No expandable storage''': Cloud and PC streaming compensate
* Enhanced haptics


=== Build ===
=== Performance Improvements ===
Compared to original PICO 4:
* 250% GPU performance improvement
* Faster application loading
* Smoother mixed reality passthrough
* Better sustained performance with thermal management


Balanced design:
== Mixed Reality Capabilities ==


* '''580g total weight'''
=== High-Resolution Passthrough ===
* '''304g front''' module
The PICO 4 Ultra significantly improves mixed reality:
* '''276g rear''' battery counterweight
* '''Cameras''': Dual 32-megapixel color passthrough cameras
* '''IPD 58-72mm''' adjustment
* '''Quality''': High-resolution full-color stereoscopic view
* Classic PICO balanced design
* '''Frame Rate''': Up to 72Hz MR alignment
* Comfortable weight distribution
* '''Color Accuracy''': Realistic environmental reproduction


=== Battery ===
=== iToF Depth Sensing ===
Time-of-flight depth camera enables:
* Accurate room mapping
* Environment mesh generation
* Occlusion handling (virtual behind real)
* Hand tracking depth accuracy
* Object recognition


* '''5,700 mAh''' capacity
=== MR Application Support ===
* '''45W fast charging'''
The platform supports various mixed reality experiences:
* QC 4.0 / PD 3.0 support
* AR games overlaid on real environment
* Extended play sessions
* Virtual screens in physical space
* Rear counterweight placement
* Productivity applications
* Creative tools with environmental awareness


=== Connectivity ===
== Tracking System ==


* '''Wi-Fi 7''' support
=== Inside-Out Tracking ===
* '''3.0+ Gbps''' transmission speed
Four tracking cameras provide 6DoF head and controller tracking:
* '''5ms latency''' streaming
* Wide tracking volume coverage
* Bluetooth
* Works in varied lighting conditions
* USB-C
* No external sensors required
* PICO Connect app
* Room-scale play space support


== Features ==
=== Hand Tracking ===
Built-in hand tracking enables controller-free interaction:
* Full articulated hand recognition
* Gesture-based navigation
* Pinch-to-select interaction
* Continuous improvement via software updates


=== PanoScreen Workspace ===
=== Body Tracking ===
* Multi-device screen mirroring
Optional PICO Motion Tracker accessories enable:
* Mac/Windows/iOS/Android support
* Full-body tracking for social VR
* Up to 3 simultaneous displays
* Fitness application integration
* Ultrawide virtual screen
* Dance and movement games
* Avatar animation in supported apps


=== Motion Tracker Support ===
== Connectivity ==
* IMU sensor + 12 IR sensors
* 6DoF tracking at 200Hz
* 24 skeleton point tracking
* 20ms latency
* Full body tracking compatible


=== PC VR Streaming ===
=== Wi-Fi 7 Wireless ===
* PICO Connect application
The PICO 4 Ultra debuts Wi-Fi 7 in VR headsets:
* Wi-Fi 7 optimized
* '''Standard''': 802.11be
* Low-latency streaming
* '''Speed''': Over 3.0 Gbps transmission
* SteamVR compatible
* '''Latency''': As low as 5 milliseconds for streaming
* '''Benefit''': Near-wired quality wireless PC VR


== Technical Specifications ==
=== Wireless PC VR ===
PICO Streaming enables:
* Connection to gaming PCs over Wi-Fi
* SteamVR game compatibility
* Low-latency gameplay
* Both standalone and PCVR gaming from single device
 
=== USB-C ===
Wired connectivity for:
* Charging (45W fast charge)
* DisplayPort Alt Mode for PCVR
* Data transfer
* Developer tools
 
=== Bluetooth 5.2 ===
For accessories:
* Controllers
* Audio devices
* Fitness peripherals
* Motion trackers
 
== Audio System ==
 
=== Integrated Speakers ===
Dual stereo speakers provide:
* Spatial audio positioning
* Open design for environmental awareness
* Adequate volume for immersion
* Privacy may require headphones
 
=== 3.5mm Audio Jack ===
Standard headphone connectivity:
* Any wired headphones compatible
* Better isolation than speakers
* Improved audio quality option
 
=== Microphone Array ===
Dual microphones enable:
* Voice communication
* Voice commands
* Social VR interaction
 
== Controllers ==
 
=== PICO 4 Controllers ===
Included controllers feature:
* 6DoF tracking via headset cameras
* Thumbstick and buttons
* Grip and trigger
* Haptic feedback
* AA battery power
 
=== Controller-Free Operation ===
Hand tracking supports many applications without controllers:
* Home navigation
* Media consumption
* Some games and apps
* Accessibility use cases
 
== Software Platform ==
 
=== PICO OS ===
Android-based operating system provides:
* Custom VR-optimized interface
* Application store (PICO Store)
* System-level hand tracking
* Mixed reality framework
 
=== Content Ecosystem ===
Application availability includes:
* Growing native PICO Store library
* SteamVR games via streaming
* Social platforms (VRChat, etc.)
* Fitness applications
* Productivity tools
 
=== Enterprise Support ===
PICO 4 Ultra Enterprise edition adds:
* Kiosk mode
* MDM support
* Extended warranty options
* Enterprise deployment tools
 
== Battery and Power ==
 
=== Internal Battery ===
Large capacity enables reasonable session lengths:
* '''Capacity''': 5300mAh
* '''Runtime''': 2.5-3 hours typical use
* '''Location''': Rear compartment (improves balance)
 
=== Fast Charging ===
Quick recharge capability:
* 45W USB-C fast charging
* Approximately 2 hours full charge
* Pass-through charging while playing
 
== Comparison with Competitors ==
 
=== vs. Meta Quest 3 ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! PICO 4 Ultra !! Meta Quest 3
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 || Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
|-
| RAM || 12GB || 8GB
|-
| Storage || 256GB || 128GB/512GB
|-
| Resolution || 2160×2160 per eye || 2064×2208 per eye
|-
| Refresh Rate || 72/90Hz || 72/90/120Hz
|-
| FOV || 105° || 110°
|-
| Passthrough || 32MP × 2 || Improved (spec unconfirmed)
|-
| Wi-Fi || Wi-Fi 7 || Wi-Fi 6E
|-
| Weight || 580g || 515g
|-
| Price || €549 || $499/$649
|}
 
== Pricing and Availability ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Edition !! Price !! Notes
|-
| PICO 4 Ultra || €549 / ~$599 || Consumer edition
|-
| PICO 4 Ultra Enterprise || Contact sales || Business features, MDM
|}
 
Limited availability in United States due to ByteDance ownership considerations.
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 148: Line 365:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 2160x2160 per eye LCD
| Display || Dual LCD, 2160 × 2160 per eye
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
|-
|-
| FOV || 105°
| Memory || 12GB LPDDR5
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
| Storage || 256GB
|-
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
| FOV || 105°
|-
|-
| RAM || 12 GB
| Refresh Rate || 72Hz / 90Hz
|-
|-
| Storage || 256 GB
| Passthrough || Dual 32MP color + iToF depth
|-
|-
| Passthrough || Color (32 MP + iToF)
| Tracking || 6DoF inside-out
|-
|-
| Spatial Video || 2048x1536 @ 60fps
| Hand Tracking || Yes
|-
|-
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi 7
| Wi-Fi || Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be)
|-
|-
| Battery || 5,700 mAh (45W)
| Battery || 5300mAh, 2.5-3 hours
|-
|-
| Weight || 580g
| Weight || 580g
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| Price || €549
| Price || €549
|}
|}
== Availability ==
* '''Europe''': Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, UK, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland
* '''Asia''': China, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore
* '''United States''': Not available
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 powerful
* 12 GB RAM generous
* Color passthrough high quality
* Wi-Fi 7 ultra-low latency
* Spatial video capture innovative
* Ring-free controllers improved
* €549 competitive vs Quest 3
* 45W fast charging
* PanoScreen workspace useful
* Motion tracker support
'''Criticism:'''
* Not available in United States
* ByteDance privacy concerns
* Content library smaller than Quest
* €549 more than original PICO 4
* LCD vs OLED contrast
* Regional availability limited
* Ecosystem smaller than Meta<ref name="xrtoday">{{cite web |url=https://www.xrtoday.com/mixed-reality/the-pico-4-ultra-how-it-compares-to-the-pico-4/ |title=PICO 4 Ultra vs PICO 4 |publisher=XR Today |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[PICO]]
* [[PICO 4]]
* [[PICO 4]]
* [[ByteDance]]
* [[Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2]]
* [[Meta Quest 3]]
* [[Meta Quest 3]]
* [[Meta Quest Pro]]
* [[Standalone VR]]
* [[Apple Vision Pro]]
* [[Mixed Reality]]


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-Mounted Displays]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality]]
[[Category:PICO]]
[[Category:PICO]]
[[Category:ByteDance]]
[[Category:ByteDance]]
[[Category:2024 in technology]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
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