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Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
 
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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Somnium VR1
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]], [[Mixed Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = PC VR (Open Source)
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Platform = [[PC]], [[SteamVR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[OpenXR]]
|Creator = [[Somnium Space]], [[VRgineers]], [[Prusa Research]]
|Creator = [[Somnium Space]]
|Announced = CES 2023
|Developer = [[VRgineers]], [[Somnium Space]]
|Release = 2023
|Manufacturer = [[VRgineers]]
|Price = €4,299 (Ultimate Edition)
|Announcement Date = 2023
|Website = https://store.somniumspace.com
|Release Date = 2024
|OS = Android (open source)
|Price = €1,900 (base), €2,500 (eye tracking), €3,500 (ultimate)
|CPU =
|Website = https://store.somniumspace.com/
|GPU = Host PC dependent
|Versions = Striker Edition, Visionary Edition, Titan Edition, Ultimate Edition
|Storage =
|Requires = Gaming PC, SteamVR Tracking base stations
|RAM =
|Predecessor = None
|Display = 2 x 3.2" QLED Mini-LED Fast LCD
|Successor = None
|Resolution = 5760 x 2880 (2880 x 2880 per eye)
|Operating System = [[Windows]]
|Refresh =
|Chipset = N/A (tethered PCVR)
|Brightness = 210 nits
|CPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|Contrast = 20,000:1 (HDR local dimming)
|GPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|FOV = 125° H x 100° V
|HPU =
|PPD =
|Storage = N/A
|Lenses = Custom non-Fresnel crystal clear
|Memory = N/A
|IPD =
|SD Card Slot = No
|Eye Tracking = Yes
|Display = Dual QLED Mini-LED Fast LCD
|Hand Tracking = Yes (Ultraleap, 170°x170° FOV, 120Hz)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Tracking = 6DoF (SteamVR lighthouse)
|Peak Brightness = ~500 nits
|Spatial Mapping =
|Resolution = 2880 × 2880 per eye (5760 × 2880 combined)
|Speakers =
|Pixel Density = 35 PPD
|Microphone =
|Refresh Rate = 90Hz (base), 120Hz, 144Hz (upgradeable)
|Audio Jack =
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Connectivity = USB Type-C (all-in-one cable)
|Field of View = 130° horizontal, 105° vertical
|Ports = USB-C (6m hybrid cable with DP, USB 3.2, power)
|Horizontal FoV = 130°
|Battery =
|Vertical FoV = 105°
|Weight =
|Average Pixel Density = 35 PPD
|Materials = 3D printable parts
|Peak Pixel Density = 35 PPD
|Colors =
|Foveated Rendering = Yes (with eye tracking)
|Sensors = 2 passthrough cameras (3864x2192 @ 90fps)
|Optics = Aspheric lenses (swappable)
|Input = SteamVR controllers (Index/Vive)
|Ocularity = Binocular
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (mechanical adjustment)
|Adjustable Diopter = Yes (prescription lens inserts available)
|Passthrough = Yes (Ultimate Edition only, color stereo)
|Tracking = 6DoF outside-in (SteamVR Lighthouse)
|Tracking Frequency = 1000Hz (base stations)
|Base Stations = Required (sold separately)
|Eye Tracking = Yes (Visionary/Titan/Ultimate editions, 120Hz)
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = Yes (Ultraleap, Striker/Titan/Ultimate editions)
|Body Tracking = Via VIVE Trackers
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = Up to 144Hz
|Tracking Volume = Lighthouse 2.0
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <20ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = Integrated speakers (DMAS-style) + 3.5mm jack
|Microphone = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = Stereo passthrough cameras (Ultimate Edition)
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A, 3.5mm audio
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = USB powered + external power (optional)
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = ~200mm × 120mm × 150mm
|Weight = ~450g
|Material = Plastic, metal
|Headstrap = Modular system (multiple options)
|Haptics = Controller haptics (via SteamVR controllers)
|Color = Black
|Sensors = Lighthouse tracking photodiodes, eye tracking cameras, IMU
|Input = SteamVR controllers (Valve Index, VIVE), Ultraleap hand tracking
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Somnium VR1''' is an open-source, modular [[virtual reality]] and [[mixed reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Somnium Space]] in partnership with [[VRgineers]] and [[Prusa Research]]. Announced at CES 2023, the VR1 features dual 2880 x 2880 QLED Mini-LED displays with HDR local dimming, eye tracking, Ultraleap hand tracking, and mixed reality passthrough cameras. The headset is designed with an open-source philosophy, allowing users to 3D print parts and build their own headsets using publicly available designs and purchasable components.<ref name="vrgineers">{{cite web|url=https://vrgineers.com/somnium-vr1-vr/|title=Somnium VR1 VR|publisher=VRgineers}}</ref>
The '''Somnium VR1''' is a high-end [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Somnium Space]] in partnership with [[VRgineers]], announced in 2023 and released in 2024 with prices starting at €1,900 for the base edition and reaching €3,500 for the Ultimate Edition with all features. The Somnium VR1 represents a new approach to enthusiast PC VR, combining the same high-resolution 2880 × 2880 per eye QLED Mini-LED panels found in the Pimax Crystal with an industry-leading 130° horizontal × 105° vertical field of view—claimed to be the widest undistorted FOV of any consumer headset, noticeably wider than Meta Quest 3 and Valve Index. Built on an open-source philosophy with modular components, open eye-tracking APIs, and SteamVR Lighthouse tracking, the VR1 targets simulation enthusiasts, VR developers, and users who prioritize visual quality and customizability over convenience.


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


=== Partnership Announcement ===
=== Somnium Space Background ===
Somnium Space partnered with VRgineers (enterprise VR headset maker) and Prusa Research (3D printer company) to develop an open-source VR platform.
Company origins:
* VR metaverse platform
* Web3 integration
* Open ecosystem philosophy
* Hardware ambition


=== CES 2023 ===
=== VRgineers Partnership ===
The VR1 Development Kit was available at CES 2023, showcasing the modular design philosophy.
Manufacturing expertise:
* Professional VR headset maker
* XTAL headset experience
* Enterprise quality
* Hardware manufacturing


=== Open Source Philosophy ===
=== Development Goals ===
The VR1 aims to change restrictive VR market practices by making hardware designs openly available.<ref name="somnium">{{cite web|url=https://somniumspace.medium.com/somnium-space-partners-with-prusa-research-and-vrgineers-to-further-develop-its-open-source-8d1dca74dae2|title=Somnium Space partners with Prusa Research and VRgineers|publisher=Somnium Space}}</ref>
Design priorities:
* Widest FOV possible
* Highest resolution accessible
* Open ecosystem
* Modular design


== Design and Hardware ==
=== 2024 Release ===
Market launch:
* Multiple editions
* Tiered pricing
* Enthusiast targeting
* Shipping worldwide


=== Display System ===
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''Panel Size:''' 2 x 3.2 inches
* '''Resolution:''' 2880 x 2880 per eye (5760 x 2880 total)
* '''Display Type:''' QLED Mini-LED Fast LCD
* '''Brightness:''' 210 nits
* '''Contrast:''' 20,000:1 with HDR local dimming


=== Field of View ===
=== Open Ecosystem ===
* '''Horizontal:''' 125 degrees
Philosophy core:
* '''Vertical:''' 100 degrees
* Open-source eye tracking
* Standard interfaces
* User modifications
* Community support


=== Optics ===
=== Maximum Visual Quality ===
Custom non-Fresnel, crystal clear lenses for maximum clarity.
Priority focus:
* Widest undistorted FOV
* Highest practical resolution
* Best panels available
* Premium optics
 
=== Modular Architecture ===
Customizable design:
* Swappable lens options
* Multiple face gaskets
* Strap options
* Feature editions
 
=== Simulation Focus ===
Target use case:
* Flight simulation
* Racing simulation
* Space simulation
* Professional training
 
== Display Technology ==
 
=== QLED Mini-LED Fast LCD ===
Premium panels:
* '''Resolution''': 2880 × 2880 per eye
* '''Total''': 5760 × 2880
* '''Type''': QLED Mini-LED
* Same panels as Pimax Crystal
 
=== Resolution Quality ===
Visual clarity:
* 35 PPD (pixels per degree)
* Near Vision Pro levels
* Excellent detail
* Minimal screen door
 
=== Refresh Rate ===
Variable options:
* 90Hz base
* 120Hz upgrade
* 144Hz maximum
* GPU dependent
 
=== Color and Contrast ===
Display quality:
* QLED color enhancement
* Mini-LED local dimming
* Good HDR support
* Vibrant imagery
 
== Field of View ==
 
=== Industry-Leading FOV ===
Widest consumer FOV:
* '''Horizontal''': 130°
* '''Vertical''': 105°
* Up to 140° render
* True peripheral vision
 
=== Undistorted View ===
Key distinction:
* No edge warping
* Full clarity across FOV
* No "tunnel vision"
* Natural viewing experience
 
=== FOV Comparison ===
Market positioning:
* Wider than Quest 3 (~110°)
* Wider than Index (~130° with distortion)
* Wider than Pimax (undistorted)
* Near-human peripheral
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== Aspheric Lenses ===
Premium optics:
* Wide sweet spot
* Edge-to-edge clarity
* Minimal distortion
* High quality
 
=== Swappable Lenses ===
Modular feature:
* Multiple lens options
* User replaceable
* Prescription compatible
* Customization
 
=== IPD Adjustment ===
Mechanical range:
* '''Range''': 58-72mm
* Physical lens movement
* Precise calibration
* Wide accommodation
 
== Tracking System ==
 
=== SteamVR Lighthouse ===
External tracking:
* Base stations required
* Not included
* Lighthouse 2.0 support
* Sub-millimeter accuracy
 
=== Tracking Quality ===
Professional grade:
* Reliable 6DoF
* Low latency
* Large play space
* Proven technology
 
=== Controller Options ===
SteamVR ecosystem:
* Valve Index controllers
* VIVE Wands
* SteamVR compatible
* Full ecosystem access


== Eye Tracking ==
== Eye Tracking ==


Integrated eye tracking for:
=== 120Hz Eye Tracking ===
* Foveated rendering
Available in Visionary+:
* Gaze interaction
* '''Frequency''': 120Hz
* Avatar eye movement
* Open-source API
* Single-point calibration
* Advanced technology
 
=== Open-Source API ===
Developer friendly:
* Public documentation
* Standard interfaces
* Application support
* Community development
 
=== Foveated Rendering ===
Performance optimization:
* Dynamic quality adjustment
* GPU load reduction
* Better performance
* Visual quality maintained


== Hand Tracking ==
== Hand Tracking ==


=== Ultraleap Integration ===
=== Ultraleap Integration ===
* '''Field of View:''' 170° x 170°
Premium hand tracking:
* '''Refresh Rate:''' 120 Hz
* '''FOV''': 170° × 170°
* '''Provider:''' Ultraleap
* '''Refresh''': 120Hz
* Top-tier technology
* Natural interaction


== Mixed Reality ==
=== Available Editions ===
Feature configuration:
* Striker Edition (hand tracking)
* Titan Edition (eye + hand)
* Ultimate Edition (all features)


=== Passthrough Cameras ===
== Audio System ==
* '''Resolution:''' 2 x 3864 x 2192
* '''Frame Rate:''' 90 fps (foveated transport)
* '''Field of View:''' 120° x 100°


== Open Source Design ==
=== Integrated Speakers ===
Built-in audio:
* Off-ear design
* Spatial audio
* Good quality
* Convenience


=== 3D Printable Parts ===
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
* 3D models available on Printables.com (Prusa's website)
Headphone option:
* Users can print parts at home
* Private listening
* Supports maintenance and upgrades
* Higher quality option
* Professional use
* User choice


=== Public Source Code ===
== Passthrough ==
Android OS source codes available in public GIT repository.


=== DIY Option ===
=== Mixed Reality (Ultimate Edition) ===
Users can:
Passthrough capability:
* Download 3D part models
* Stereo cameras
* Purchase electronic components, sensors, and lenses from Somnium
* Color passthrough
* Build their own headsets
* Room awareness
* MR applications


== Tracking ==
=== Ultimate Edition Exclusive ===
Premium feature:
* €3,500 configuration
* Full MR capability
* All features included
* Complete package


=== SteamVR Tracking ===
== Product Editions ==
Uses SteamVR "lighthouse" base stations:
* Compatible with Valve Index base stations
* Compatible with HTC Vive base stations
* 6DoF tracking


=== Compatible Controllers ===
=== Striker Edition ===
* Valve Index Controllers
Hand tracking focus:
* HTC Vive Controllers
* Base VR headset
* Ultraleap hand tracking
* No eye tracking
* €1,900+


== Connectivity ==
=== Visionary Edition ===
Eye tracking focus:
* Base VR headset
* 120Hz eye tracking
* Foveated rendering
* €2,500


=== All-In-One USB-C Cable ===
=== Titan Edition ===
* '''Length:''' 6 meters (20 feet)
Eye + Hand:
* '''Features:''' Hybrid cable with DisplayPort, USB 3 Gen 2, and power
* Eye tracking
 
* Hand tracking
== Editions ==
* Combined features
* Premium price


=== Ultimate Edition (€4,299) ===
=== Ultimate Edition ===
Includes:
Full featured:
* VR functionality
* Eye tracking
* Eye tracking
* Mixed reality passthrough
* Hand tracking
* Hand tracking
* MR passthrough
* All features included
* €3,500
== Physical Design ==
=== Build Quality ===
Premium construction:
* Quality materials
* Solid build
* Professional feel
* Durable design
=== Weight ===
Reasonable mass:
* ~450g
* Well balanced
* Comfortable wear
* Good distribution
=== Modular Straps ===
Comfort options:
* Multiple strap choices
* User preference
* Aftermarket support
* Customizable fit
== PC Requirements ==
=== High-End Hardware ===
Demanding specifications:
* '''Recommended GPU''': RTX 3080+
* High VRAM needed
* Modern CPU
* 32GB+ RAM recommended
=== DisplayPort 1.4 ===
Connection requirements:
* Full bandwidth needed
* High resolution support
* Modern GPU required
* Quality cable essential
== Use Cases ==
=== Flight Simulation ===
Ideal application:
* Peripheral vision critical
* High resolution cockpit
* Immersive experience
* DCS, MSFS optimized
=== Racing Simulation ===
Sim racing benefits:
* Wide FOV mirrors
* Peripheral awareness
* Track visibility
* iRacing, ACC
=== VR Development ===
Developer features:
* Open APIs
* Standard interfaces
* Testing platform
* Professional quality
=== Professional Training ===
Enterprise potential:
* Simulation training
* Medical visualization
* Design review
* Professional applications
== Comparison with Competitors ==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Somnium VR1 !! Pimax Crystal !! Valve Index
|-
| Price || €1,900-€3,500 || $1,599+ || $999 kit
|-
| Resolution/eye || 2880×2880 || 2880×2880 || 1440×1600
|-
| FOV || 130°×105° || ~120° || ~130°*
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90-144Hz || 90-120Hz || 80-144Hz
|-
| Panels || QLED Mini-LED || QLED Mini-LED || LCD
|-
| Eye Tracking || Optional (120Hz) || Optional || No
|-
| Tracking || Lighthouse || Lighthouse/Inside-out || Lighthouse
|}
''*Index 130° includes some distortion at edges''
== Strengths and Limitations ==
=== Strengths ===
* Widest undistorted FOV (130°×105°)
* Extremely high resolution (2880×2880)
* Open-source eye tracking
* Modular design
* Premium displays
* Ultraleap hand tracking option
* SteamVR ecosystem


=== Classic Edition ===
=== Limitations ===
Base VR functionality without all tracking features.
* High price (€1,900-€3,500)
* Base stations not included
* Very demanding on PC
* No wireless option
* Limited availability
* Complex setup


== Specifications ==
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 2 x 3.2" QLED Mini-LED LCD
| Display || Dual QLED Mini-LED, 2880 × 2880 per eye
|-
|-
| Resolution || 2880 x 2880 per eye
| Total Resolution || 5760 × 2880
|-
|-
| Contrast || 20,000:1 (HDR)
| FOV || 130° horizontal, 105° vertical
|-
|-
| Field of View || 125° H x 100° V
| Refresh Rate || 90/120/144Hz
|-
|-
| Eye Tracking || Yes
| PPD || 35 pixels per degree
|-
|-
| Hand Tracking || Ultraleap (120 Hz)
| Tracking || SteamVR Lighthouse
|-
|-
| Passthrough || 3864x2192 @ 90fps
| Eye Tracking || 120Hz (Visionary/Titan/Ultimate)
|-
|-
| Tracking || SteamVR 6DoF
| Hand Tracking || Ultraleap (Striker/Titan/Ultimate)
|-
|-
| Cable || 6m USB-C hybrid
| IPD || 58-72mm mechanical
|-
|-
| Open Source || Yes (3D printable parts)
| Weight || ~450g
|-
|-
| Price || €4,299 (Ultimate)
| Price || €1,900 - €3,500 (by edition)
|}
|}


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* [[Somnium Space]]
* [[Somnium Space]]
* [[VRgineers]]
* [[VRgineers]]
* [[Prusa Research]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[Open source hardware]]
* [[Valve Index]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Wide FOV VR]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 178: Line 496:
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Mixed reality]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:SteamVR]]
[[Category:SteamVR]]
[[Category:Open source hardware]]
[[Category:Wide FOV]]
[[Category:Eye tracking]]
[[Category:Hand tracking]]
[[Category:Somnium Space]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Somnium_VR1"