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{{Device Infobox | {{Device Infobox | ||
|image | |image = [[File:logitech vr ink1.png|350px]] | ||
|VR/AR | |VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]] | ||
|Type | |Type = [[Input Device]] | ||
|Subtype | |Subtype = [[Stylus]] | ||
|Platform | |Platform = [[SteamVR]] | ||
|Developer | |Creator = | ||
|Manufacturer | |Developer = [[Logitech]] | ||
|Announcement Date = May | |Manufacturer = [[Logitech]] | ||
|Release Date | |Announcement Date = May 29, 2019 | ||
|Price | |Release Date = February 2020 | ||
|Website | |Price = $750 | ||
|Versions | |Website = | ||
|Requires | |Versions = Pilot Edition | ||
|Successor | |Requires = SteamVR compatible headset, SteamVR Tracking base stations (1.0 or 2.0) | ||
|Operating System = Windows | |Predecessor = | ||
|Tracking | |Successor = [[Logitech MX Ink]] | ||
|Operating System = Windows 10 (64-bit) | |||
|Chipset = | |||
|CPU = | |||
|GPU = | |||
|HPU = | |||
|Storage = | |||
|Memory = | |||
|SD Card Slot = | |||
|Display = | |||
|Subpixel Layout = | |||
|Peak Brightness = | |||
|Resolution = | |||
|Refresh Rate = | |||
|Pixel Density = | |||
|Persistence = | |||
|Precision = High precision for both 2D and 3D input | |||
|Field of View = | |||
|Horizontal FoV = | |||
|Vertical FoV = | |||
|Visible FoV = | |||
|Rendered FoV = | |||
|Binocular Overlap = | |||
|Average Pixel Density = | |||
|Peak Pixel Density = | |||
|Foveated Rendering = | |||
|Optics = | |||
|Ocularity = | |||
|IPD Range = | |||
|Adjustable Diopter = | |||
|Passthrough = | |||
|Tracking = SteamVR Tracking (compatible with 1.0 and 2.0 Base Stations) | |||
|Tracking Frequency = | |||
|Base Stations = SteamVR Base Stations 1.0 or 2.0 (not included) | |||
|Eye Tracking = | |||
|Face Tracking = | |||
|Hand Tracking = | |||
|Body Tracking = | |||
|Rotational Tracking = Yes | |Rotational Tracking = Yes | ||
|Positional Tracking = | |Positional Tracking = 6DoF (Six Degrees of Freedom) | ||
| | |Update Rate = | ||
|Connectivity | |Tracking Volume = Room-scale | ||
|Ports | |Play Space = | ||
|Dimensions | |Latency = Low latency | ||
|Weight | |Audio = | ||
|Haptics | |Microphone = | ||
|Input | |3.5mm Audio Jack = | ||
|Camera = | |||
|Connectivity = 2.4 GHz wireless | |||
|Ports = micro-USB (for charging and potential wired connection) | |||
|Wired Video = | |||
|Wireless Video = | |||
|WiFi = | |||
|Bluetooth = | |||
|Power = Rechargeable battery | |||
|Battery Capacity = | |||
|Battery Life = 2.5+ hours (continuous use) | |||
|Charge Time = | |||
|Dimensions = Length: 207mm; Diameter: 29mm (Tip end) / 32mm (Top end); Height: 39mm (Main button) <!-- Refined dimensions --> | |||
|Weight = 68 grams | |||
|Material = | |||
|Headstrap = | |||
|Haptics = Yes, integrated | |||
|Color = Black/Grey | |||
|Sensors = | |||
|Input = Pressure-sensitive tip, pressure-sensitive primary button, clickable 2D touch-strip, menu & system buttons, side 'grab' buttons | |||
|Compliance = | |||
|Size = | |||
|Cable Length = | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{see also|Input Devices}} | |||
==Overview== | |||
The '''Logitech VR Ink''' is a [[virtual reality]] [[stylus]] created by [[Logitech]] for professional design and creative applications. Announced on May 29, 2019, and released in February 2020, it was marketed as the world's first room-scale virtual reality stylus.<ref name="announcement">{{cite web|url=https://news.logitech.com/press-releases/news-details/2019/Logitech-Introduces-Worlds-First-Room-Scale-Virtual-Reality-Stylus/default.aspx|title=Logitech Introduces World's First Room-Scale Virtual Reality Stylus|date=May 29, 2019|publisher=Logitech|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> The VR Ink was designed primarily for enterprise users to enable more intuitive and precise 3D creation in virtual reality environments, while also allowing for traditional 2D drawing on physical surfaces. | |||
The device was notable for using [[SteamVR Tracking]] technology to provide [[6 degrees of freedom]] ([[6DoF]]) tracking in virtual spaces, combined with a pressure-sensitive tip that allowed for drawing on physical surfaces. This dual functionality made it unique among [[VR input devices]] at the time of its release.<ref name="roadtovr-hands-on">{{cite web|url=https://www.roadtovr.com/logitech-vr-ink-stylus-hands-on-steamvr-tracking/|title=Hands-on: Logitech is Building the VR Stylus That Needs to Exist|date=May 29, 2019|publisher=Road to VR|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
The | |||
== Development and | ==Development and Release== | ||
Logitech revealed the VR Ink 'Pilot Edition' on May 29, 2019, ahead of [[Augmented World Expo]], with the intention of gathering interest and feedback from companies for use and application integration.<ref name="roadtovr-hands-on" /> It was not initially presented as a final consumer product but as a tool for professionals and developers in the enterprise VR space.<ref name="github-sdk"></ref> | |||
Pre-orders for the Pilot Edition began in December 2019 at a price of $750, with shipping starting in February 2020.<ref name="roadtovr-preorder">{{cite web|url=https://www.roadtovr.com/logitech-vr-stylus-pre-order-vr-ink-pilot-edition-price-release-date/|title=Logitech's VR Stylus for SteamVR Now Available for Pre-order for $750|date=December 19, 2019|publisher=Road to VR|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> Logitech explicitly stated that this was a "beta product" at the time of pre-order, indicating its early-adoption status.<ref name="roadtovr-preorder" /> | |||
The VR Ink Pilot Edition was positioned as a first-generation VR stylus for enterprise, designed to be simple to use while offering enhanced control for creative tasks.<ref name="logitech-site">{{cite web|url=https://www.logitech.com/assets/65708/vr-ink.pdf|title=Logitech VR Ink Pilot Edition Datasheet|publisher=Logitech|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
Logitech | ==Design and Features== | ||
===Hardware=== | |||
The Logitech VR Ink weighs 68 grams and features a design similar to a traditional pen or pencil, though noticeably larger to accommodate the necessary electronics.<ref name="roadtovr-hands-on" /> With dimensions of Length: 207mm; Diameter: 29mm (Tip end) / 32mm (Top end); Height: 39mm (Main button), it was designed to be intuitive to use without requiring users to learn new skills.<ref name="logitech-site" /> It includes several input mechanisms:<ref name="roadtovr-preorder" /> | |||
== | *Pressure-sensitive tip for drawing on physical surfaces, made of [[Polyoxymethylene]] (POM) and interchangeable | ||
=== | *Pressure-sensitive primary button for drawing in 3D space | ||
*Clickable 2D touch-strip for additional control | |||
*Menu and system buttons for interface navigation | |||
*Dual-sided 'grab' buttons for object manipulation | |||
*Integrated [[haptic feedback]] for tactile response | |||
The stylus is powered by a rechargeable battery with a stated battery life of approximately 2.5 hours of continuous use. It connects to compatible systems wirelessly via a 2.4 GHz connection and is recharged using a micro-USB port.<ref name="logitech-site" /> | |||
===Software and Customization=== | |||
The Logitech VR Ink is accompanied by a dedicated driver application available on Steam that enables users to customize various aspects of the stylus's behavior:<ref name="steam-driver">{{cite web|url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/1068300/Logitech_VR_Ink_Driver/|title=Logitech VR Ink Driver on Steam|date=January 27, 2020|publisher=Steam|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
*Adjusting pressure response curves for the analog tip (for drawing on surfaces) | |||
*Customizing pressure response for the primary button (for drawing in air) | |||
*Setting activation thresholds for the grip buttons | |||
*Configuring the touchstrip behavior | |||
These settings are accessible through a Windows system tray application, and user-specific configurations are stored locally on the user's PC. | |||
Logitech also provided an [[SDK]] for [[Unity (game engine)|Unity]] and [[Unreal Engine]], enabling developers to integrate VR Ink's specific features into their applications.<ref name="github-sdk" /> This facilitated broader adoption and custom implementations across various software platforms. | |||
==Compatibility== | |||
===Hardware Requirements=== | |||
The Logitech VR Ink requires the following minimum system specifications to function properly:<ref name="pcgamebenchmark">{{cite web|url=https://www.pcgamebenchmark.com/logitech-vr-ink-driver-system-requirements|title=Logitech VR Ink Driver System Requirements|publisher=PCGameBenchmark|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
*Windows 10 (64-bit) operating system | |||
*Intel Core i5-4590 or equivalent CPU | |||
*[[NVIDIA]] GeForce GTX 970 or equivalent GPU (AMD Radeon RX 480 recommended) | |||
*8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended) | |||
*56 MB available storage space | |||
[[SteamVR]]-compatible [[VR headset]], including: | |||
*[[HTC Vive]] | |||
*[[HTC Vive Pro]] | |||
*[[Valve Index]] | |||
*[[Varjo]] headsets | |||
*[[SteamVR base stations]] (1.0 or 2.0), not included with the stylus | |||
===Software Compatibility=== | |||
At launch, the VR Ink was compatible with a select number of professional VR applications focused on design, modeling, and creative tasks:<ref name="roadtovr-preorder" /><ref name="logitech-site" /> | |||
{| class="wikitable" | {| class="wikitable" | ||
! Application !! | ! Application !! Type !! Description | ||
|- | |||
| [[Flyingshapes]] || [[3D Modeling]] || CAD/product design software with special "virtual tablet" feature for VR Ink | |||
|- | |||
| [[Vector Suite]] || [[Design]] || Vector-based design application | |||
|- | |||
| [[VRED]] || [[Automotive Design]] || Autodesk's automotive visualization and design review tool | |||
|- | |- | ||
| | | [[Mindesk]] || [[CAD]] || CAD visualization and manipulation tool | ||
|- | |- | ||
| | | [[Gravity Sketch]] || [[3D Design]] || 3D design and modeling application | ||
|- | |- | ||
| | | [[MARUI]] || [[Plugin]] || Maya plugin for VR modeling | ||
|- | |- | ||
| | | [[IrisVR]] || [[Visualization]] || Architecture and design visualization platform | ||
|- | |- | ||
| | | [[Tilt Brush]] || [[Creative]] || Google's VR painting application | ||
|- | |- | ||
| | | [[Elucis]] || [[Medical Imaging]] || Medical imaging and 3D model interaction platform <!-- Added Elucis --> | ||
|} | |} | ||
*( | Additionally, the stylus featured integration capabilities with game engines: | ||
*[[Unreal Engine]] integration | |||
*[[Unity]] integration | |||
These integrations allowed developers to implement support for the VR Ink in custom applications and existing software platforms.<ref name="github-sdk" /> | |||
==Functionality== | |||
The VR Ink was designed for a hybrid 2D/3D workflow, allowing users to:<ref name="roadtovr-hands-on" /><ref name="logitech-site" /> | |||
*'''Sketch on 2D Surfaces:''' Users could draw on a physical surface (like the optional VR Ink Drawing Mat or a desk) using the pressure-sensitive tip, with the sketch appearing in the VR environment. | |||
*'''Draw in 3D Space:''' The stylus could also be used to draw and sculpt directly in three-dimensional virtual space, leveraging the pressure-sensitive main button for control over strokes. | |||
*'''Navigate and Interact:''' Beyond drawing, the buttons and touch strip allowed for navigation within [[VR applications]], object manipulation (grabbing, moving), and menu interactions. | |||
(This dual functionality bridged traditional design processes with VR capabilities, allowing users to start with familiar 2D drawing techniques on a physical surface and then continue developing their designs in 3D space. | |||
==Applications== | |||
===Professional Use Cases=== | |||
The Logitech VR Ink was primarily targeted at enterprise users and professionals in design-related fields. Its main applications included:<ref name="gadgetflow">{{cite web|url=https://thegadgetflow.com/product/logitech-vr-ink-pilot-edition/|title=Logitech VR Ink Pilot Edition Stylus lets you be three-dimensionally creative|publisher=Gadget Flow|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
*[[Industrial design]] and [[product prototyping]] | |||
*[[Automotive design]] and [[visualization]] | |||
*[[Architectural]] design and review | |||
*[[3D modeling]] and [[sculpture]] | |||
*[[Concept art]] and [[sketching]] | |||
*[[Engineering visualization]] | |||
The device was particularly valuable for workflows that required transitioning between 2D sketching and 3D modeling, as it allowed users to start with familiar 2D drawing techniques on a physical surface and then continue developing their designs in 3D space. | |||
===Workflow Integration=== | |||
A key advantage of the VR Ink was its ability to bridge traditional design processes with VR capabilities. The flyingshapes application, for example, developed a specific "virtual tablet" feature for the VR Ink that aligned a two-dimensional drawing surface with a physical desktop or drawing mat, enabling users to seamlessly transition between 2D sketching and 3D modeling.<ref name="flyingshapes">{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingshapes.com/logitech-vr-ink-integration|title=Logitech VR Ink Integration brings a completely new workflow to the table|date=March 27, 2020|publisher=flyingshapes|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
This integration was reported to significantly reduce production cycles for design projects. According to testimonials, the time required to create full-scale mockups could be reduced from years to months using VR tools like the Logitech VR Ink. | |||
==Accessories== | |||
===VR Ink Drawing Mat=== | |||
Alongside the stylus itself, Logitech offered an optional VR Ink Drawing Mat for $70. This A1-sized (594mm × 841mm) mat provided a low-friction surface texture specifically designed for optimal tracking performance when using the stylus for 2D drawing on a physical surface.<ref name="roadtovr-preorder" /><ref name="vrgear-preorder">{{cite web |url=https://vrgear.com/logitech-vr-stylus-now-available-for-pre-order/ |title=Logitech's VR Stylus Now Available for Pre-Order |publisher=VRGear.com |date=2019-12-27 |accessdate=May 8, 2025}}</ref> The mat was considered necessary for proper 2D input functionality. | |||
==Technical Specifications== | |||
{| class="wikitable" | |||
|+ Logitech VR Ink Pilot Edition Specifications | |||
! Feature !! Specification | |||
|- | |||
| '''[[Tracking]]''' || [[SteamVR Tracking]] (1.0 and 2.0 compatible) | |||
|- | |||
| '''[[Connectivity]]''' || 2.4 GHz wireless, micro-USB | |||
|- | |||
| '''[[Battery]]''' || Rechargeable via USB, 2.5+ hours of use | |||
|- | |||
| '''Dimensions''' || Length: 207mm; Diameter: 29mm (Tip end) / 32mm (Top end); Height: 39mm (Main button) <!-- Refined dimensions --> | |||
|- | |||
| '''Weight''' || 68 grams | |||
|- | |||
| '''[[Input]]s''' || Pressure-sensitive tip, pressure-sensitive main button, clickable 2D touch strip, dual-sided grip buttons, menu button, system button | |||
|- | |||
| '''[[Haptics]]''' || Yes, integrated | |||
|- | |||
| '''Stylus Tips''' || [[Polyoxymethylene|POM]], interchangeable | |||
|- | |||
| '''Required OS''' || [[Windows 10]] (64-bit) | |||
|- | |||
| '''Compatible Headsets''' || [[HTC Vive]], [[HTC Vive Pro]], [[Valve Index]], [[Varjo]] | |||
|} | |||
==Reception== | |||
The Logitech VR Ink received positive impressions from technology reviewers who had the opportunity to test it. The precision and pressure sensitivity of the stylus were particularly praised, with some comparing it favorably to professional drawing tablets like those from Wacom.<ref name="roadtovr-preorder" /> | |||
Reviewers also noted that the device addressed an important gap in VR input methods, especially for professional users who required more precision than what was offered by standard VR controllers. The familiar pen-like form factor was highlighted as a significant advantage, allowing users to leverage existing drawing skills in VR environments.<ref name="roadtovr-hands-on" /> | |||
However, the high price point of $750 was identified as a potential barrier to widespread adoption, along with the relatively short battery life of 2.5 hours.<ref name="uploadvr-expensive">{{cite web |url=https://uploadvr.com/logitech-vr-ink-expensive/ |title=Logitech's New VR Stylus Is Launching In February 2020, And Is Ridiculously Expensive |publisher=UploadVR |date=2019-12-20 |accessdate=May 8, 2025}}</ref> The device was clearly positioned as an enterprise product rather than a consumer accessory. | |||
Early enterprise evaluators such as Design Partners highlighted the stylus' ability to merge 2-D sketch workflows with room-scale prototyping. According to testimonials, the time required to create full-scale mockups could be reduced from years to months using VR tools like the Logitech VR Ink.<ref name="arpost2020">{{cite web|url=https://arpost.co/2020/11/30/logitechs-vr-stylus-test-run-design-partners/|title=Logitech's New VR Stylus Gets a Test Run From Design Partners|date=November 30, 2020|publisher=ARPost|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
==Legacy and Successor== | |||
The Logitech VR Ink Pilot Edition represented Logitech's first entry into specialized [[VR input devices]]. While it was primarily targeted at a niche enterprise market, it demonstrated the potential for more precise and intuitive input methods in virtual reality beyond the standard controllers. | |||
In June 2024, Logitech announced a successor to the VR Ink called the [[MX Ink]], with availability starting in September 2024, designed specifically for [[Meta Quest]] headsets (compatible with [[Quest 2]], [[Quest 3]], and [[Quest 3S]]).<ref name="cnet-mxink">{{cite web |url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/logitechs-new-mx-ink-is-like-a-3d-apple-pencil-for-meta-quest-artists/ |title=Logitech's New MX Ink Is Like a 3D Apple Pencil for Meta Quest Artists |publisher=CNET |date=2024-06-17 |accessdate=May 8, 2025}}</ref> Unlike the original VR Ink, which required external SteamVR tracking base stations, the MX Ink utilizes the inside-out tracking capabilities of the Quest headsets. | |||
The MX Ink was positioned at a significantly lower price point of $129.99, making it more accessible to a broader range of users.<ref name="uploadvr-mxink">{{cite web|url=https://www.uploadvr.com/logitech-mx-ink-for-meta-quest/|title=Logitech MX Ink Is A Tracked Stylus For Meta Quest|date=June 17, 2024|publisher=UploadVR|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> It features several improvements over the original VR Ink: | |||
*Lighter weight: 29 grams (compared to 68 grams) | |||
*Longer battery life: up to 7 hours (compared to 2.5+ hours) | |||
*Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth | |||
*USB-C or pogo-pin charging options with the optional MX Inkwell charging dock and optional MX Mat | |||
*Integration with Meta Quest's settings UI for customization | |||
The MX Ink represented a continuation of Logitech's exploration of stylus input for [[VR/AR applications]], but with deeper platform integration and a more consumer-friendly approach compared to the original VR Ink. | |||
==See Also== | |||
[[Virtual Reality]] | |||
[[Input Device]] | |||
[[SteamVR]] | |||
[[Logitech]] | |||
[[Stylus]] | |||
[[3D Modeling]] | |||
[[Logitech MX Ink]] | |||
[[Meta Quest]] | |||
== | ==References== | ||
<references> | |||
<ref name="announcement">{{cite web|url=https://news.logitech.com/press-releases/news-details/2019/Logitech-Introduces-Worlds-First-Room-Scale-Virtual-Reality-Stylus/default.aspx|title=Logitech Introduces World's First Room-Scale Virtual Reality Stylus|date=May 29, 2019|publisher=Logitech|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="roadtovr-hands-on">{{cite web|url=https://www.roadtovr.com/logitech-vr-ink-stylus-hands-on-steamvr-tracking/|title=Hands-on: Logitech is Building the VR Stylus That Needs to Exist|date=May 29, 2019|publisher=Road to VR|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="roadtovr-preorder">{{cite web|url=https://www.roadtovr.com/logitech-vr-stylus-pre-order-vr-ink-pilot-edition-price-release-date/|title=Logitech's VR Stylus for SteamVR Now Available for Pre-order for $750|date=December 19, 2019|publisher=Road to VR|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="steam-driver">{{cite web|url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/1068300/Logitech_VR_Ink_Driver/|title=Logitech VR Ink Driver on Steam|date=January 27, 2020|publisher=Steam|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="pcgamebenchmark">{{cite web|url=https://www.pcgamebenchmark.com/logitech-vr-ink-driver-system-requirements|title=Logitech VR Ink Driver System Requirements|publisher=PCGameBenchmark|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="github-sdk">{{cite web|url=https://github.com/Logitech/vr_ink_sdk|title=GitHub - Logitech/vr_ink_sdk: Logitech VR Ink SDK repository|publisher=GitHub|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="gadgetflow">{{cite web|url=https://thegadgetflow.com/product/logitech-vr-ink-pilot-edition/|title=Logitech VR Ink Pilot Edition Stylus lets you be three-dimensionally creative|publisher=Gadget Flow|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="flyingshapes">{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingshapes.com/logitech-vr-ink-integration|title=Logitech VR Ink Integration brings a completely new workflow to the table|date=March 27, 2020|publisher=flyingshapes|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="uploadvr-mxink">{{cite web|url=https://www.uploadvr.com/logitech-mx-ink-for-meta-quest/|title=Logitech MX Ink Is A Tracked Stylus For Meta Quest|date=June 17, 2024|publisher=UploadVR|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="logitech-site">{{cite web|url=https://www.logitech.com/assets/65708/vr-ink.pdf|title=Logitech VR Ink Pilot Edition Datasheet|publisher=Logitech|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="vrgear-preorder">{{cite web |url=https://vrgear.com/logitech-vr-stylus-now-available-for-pre-order/ |title=Logitech's VR Stylus Now Available for Pre-Order |publisher=VRGear.com |date=2019-12-27 |accessdate=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="uploadvr-expensive">{{cite web |url=https://uploadvr.com/logitech-vr-ink-expensive/ |title=Logitech's New VR Stylus Is Launching In February 2020, And Is Ridiculously Expensive |publisher=UploadVR |date=2019-12-20 |accessdate=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="cnet-mxink">{{cite web |url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/logitechs-new-mx-ink-is-like-a-3d-apple-pencil-for-meta-quest-artists/ |title=Logitech's New MX Ink Is Like a 3D Apple Pencil for Meta Quest Artists |publisher=CNET |date=2024-06-17 |accessdate=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
<ref name="arpost2020">{{cite web|url=https://arpost.co/2020/11/30/logitechs-vr-stylus-test-run-design-partners/|title=Logitech's New VR Stylus Gets a Test Run From Design Partners|date=November 30, 2020|publisher=ARPost|access-date=May 8, 2025}}</ref> | |||
</references> | |||
[[Category:Devices]] | |||
[[Category:Input Devices]] | |||
[[Category:Input]] | |||
[[Category:Accessories]] | |||
[[Category:Styluses]] | |||
[[Category:VR Input Devices]] | |||
[[Category:Logitech]] | |||
[[Category:SteamVR]] | |||
[[Category:Enterprise VR]] | |||
Latest revision as of 21:14, 7 May 2025
| Logitech VR Ink | |
|---|---|
| |
| Basic Info | |
| VR/AR | Virtual Reality |
| Type | Input Device |
| Subtype | Stylus |
| Platform | SteamVR |
| Developer | Logitech |
| Manufacturer | Logitech |
| Announcement Date | May 29, 2019 |
| Release Date | February 2020 |
| Price | $750 |
| Versions | Pilot Edition |
| Requires | SteamVR compatible headset, SteamVR Tracking base stations (1.0 or 2.0) |
| Successor | Logitech MX Ink |
| System | |
| Operating System | Windows 10 (64-bit) |
| Storage | |
| Display | |
| Precision | High precision for both 2D and 3D input |
| Image | |
| Optics | |
| Tracking | |
| Tracking | SteamVR Tracking (compatible with 1.0 and 2.0 Base Stations) |
| Base Stations | SteamVR Base Stations 1.0 or 2.0 (not included) |
| Rotational Tracking | Yes |
| Positional Tracking | 6DoF (Six Degrees of Freedom) |
| Tracking Volume | Room-scale |
| Latency | Low latency |
| Audio | |
| Connectivity | |
| Connectivity | 2.4 GHz wireless |
| Ports | micro-USB (for charging and potential wired connection) |
| Power | Rechargeable battery |
| Battery Life | 2.5+ hours (continuous use) |
| Device | |
| Dimensions | Length: 207mm; Diameter: 29mm (Tip end) / 32mm (Top end); Height: 39mm (Main button) |
| Weight | 68 grams |
| Haptics | Yes, integrated |
| Color | Black/Grey |
| Input | Pressure-sensitive tip, pressure-sensitive primary button, clickable 2D touch-strip, menu & system buttons, side 'grab' buttons |
- See also: Input Devices
Overview
The Logitech VR Ink is a virtual reality stylus created by Logitech for professional design and creative applications. Announced on May 29, 2019, and released in February 2020, it was marketed as the world's first room-scale virtual reality stylus.[1] The VR Ink was designed primarily for enterprise users to enable more intuitive and precise 3D creation in virtual reality environments, while also allowing for traditional 2D drawing on physical surfaces.
The device was notable for using SteamVR Tracking technology to provide 6 degrees of freedom (6DoF) tracking in virtual spaces, combined with a pressure-sensitive tip that allowed for drawing on physical surfaces. This dual functionality made it unique among VR input devices at the time of its release.[2]
Development and Release
Logitech revealed the VR Ink 'Pilot Edition' on May 29, 2019, ahead of Augmented World Expo, with the intention of gathering interest and feedback from companies for use and application integration.[2] It was not initially presented as a final consumer product but as a tool for professionals and developers in the enterprise VR space.[3]
Pre-orders for the Pilot Edition began in December 2019 at a price of $750, with shipping starting in February 2020.[4] Logitech explicitly stated that this was a "beta product" at the time of pre-order, indicating its early-adoption status.[4]
The VR Ink Pilot Edition was positioned as a first-generation VR stylus for enterprise, designed to be simple to use while offering enhanced control for creative tasks.[5]
Design and Features
Hardware
The Logitech VR Ink weighs 68 grams and features a design similar to a traditional pen or pencil, though noticeably larger to accommodate the necessary electronics.[2] With dimensions of Length: 207mm; Diameter: 29mm (Tip end) / 32mm (Top end); Height: 39mm (Main button), it was designed to be intuitive to use without requiring users to learn new skills.[5] It includes several input mechanisms:[4]
- Pressure-sensitive tip for drawing on physical surfaces, made of Polyoxymethylene (POM) and interchangeable
- Pressure-sensitive primary button for drawing in 3D space
- Clickable 2D touch-strip for additional control
- Menu and system buttons for interface navigation
- Dual-sided 'grab' buttons for object manipulation
- Integrated haptic feedback for tactile response
The stylus is powered by a rechargeable battery with a stated battery life of approximately 2.5 hours of continuous use. It connects to compatible systems wirelessly via a 2.4 GHz connection and is recharged using a micro-USB port.[5]
Software and Customization
The Logitech VR Ink is accompanied by a dedicated driver application available on Steam that enables users to customize various aspects of the stylus's behavior:[6]
- Adjusting pressure response curves for the analog tip (for drawing on surfaces)
- Customizing pressure response for the primary button (for drawing in air)
- Setting activation thresholds for the grip buttons
- Configuring the touchstrip behavior
These settings are accessible through a Windows system tray application, and user-specific configurations are stored locally on the user's PC.
Logitech also provided an SDK for Unity and Unreal Engine, enabling developers to integrate VR Ink's specific features into their applications.[3] This facilitated broader adoption and custom implementations across various software platforms.
Compatibility
Hardware Requirements
The Logitech VR Ink requires the following minimum system specifications to function properly:[7]
- Windows 10 (64-bit) operating system
- Intel Core i5-4590 or equivalent CPU
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 or equivalent GPU (AMD Radeon RX 480 recommended)
- 8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended)
- 56 MB available storage space
SteamVR-compatible VR headset, including:
- HTC Vive
- HTC Vive Pro
- Valve Index
- Varjo headsets
- SteamVR base stations (1.0 or 2.0), not included with the stylus
Software Compatibility
At launch, the VR Ink was compatible with a select number of professional VR applications focused on design, modeling, and creative tasks:[4][5]
| Application | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Flyingshapes | 3D Modeling | CAD/product design software with special "virtual tablet" feature for VR Ink |
| Vector Suite | Design | Vector-based design application |
| VRED | Automotive Design | Autodesk's automotive visualization and design review tool |
| Mindesk | CAD | CAD visualization and manipulation tool |
| Gravity Sketch | 3D Design | 3D design and modeling application |
| MARUI | Plugin | Maya plugin for VR modeling |
| IrisVR | Visualization | Architecture and design visualization platform |
| Tilt Brush | Creative | Google's VR painting application |
| Elucis | Medical Imaging | Medical imaging and 3D model interaction platform |
Additionally, the stylus featured integration capabilities with game engines:
- Unreal Engine integration
- Unity integration
These integrations allowed developers to implement support for the VR Ink in custom applications and existing software platforms.[3]
Functionality
The VR Ink was designed for a hybrid 2D/3D workflow, allowing users to:[2][5]
- Sketch on 2D Surfaces: Users could draw on a physical surface (like the optional VR Ink Drawing Mat or a desk) using the pressure-sensitive tip, with the sketch appearing in the VR environment.
- Draw in 3D Space: The stylus could also be used to draw and sculpt directly in three-dimensional virtual space, leveraging the pressure-sensitive main button for control over strokes.
- Navigate and Interact: Beyond drawing, the buttons and touch strip allowed for navigation within VR applications, object manipulation (grabbing, moving), and menu interactions.
(This dual functionality bridged traditional design processes with VR capabilities, allowing users to start with familiar 2D drawing techniques on a physical surface and then continue developing their designs in 3D space.
Applications
Professional Use Cases
The Logitech VR Ink was primarily targeted at enterprise users and professionals in design-related fields. Its main applications included:[8]
- Industrial design and product prototyping
- Automotive design and visualization
- Architectural design and review
- 3D modeling and sculpture
- Concept art and sketching
- Engineering visualization
The device was particularly valuable for workflows that required transitioning between 2D sketching and 3D modeling, as it allowed users to start with familiar 2D drawing techniques on a physical surface and then continue developing their designs in 3D space.
Workflow Integration
A key advantage of the VR Ink was its ability to bridge traditional design processes with VR capabilities. The flyingshapes application, for example, developed a specific "virtual tablet" feature for the VR Ink that aligned a two-dimensional drawing surface with a physical desktop or drawing mat, enabling users to seamlessly transition between 2D sketching and 3D modeling.[9]
This integration was reported to significantly reduce production cycles for design projects. According to testimonials, the time required to create full-scale mockups could be reduced from years to months using VR tools like the Logitech VR Ink.
Accessories
VR Ink Drawing Mat
Alongside the stylus itself, Logitech offered an optional VR Ink Drawing Mat for $70. This A1-sized (594mm × 841mm) mat provided a low-friction surface texture specifically designed for optimal tracking performance when using the stylus for 2D drawing on a physical surface.[4][10] The mat was considered necessary for proper 2D input functionality.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Tracking | SteamVR Tracking (1.0 and 2.0 compatible) |
| Connectivity | 2.4 GHz wireless, micro-USB |
| Battery | Rechargeable via USB, 2.5+ hours of use |
| Dimensions | Length: 207mm; Diameter: 29mm (Tip end) / 32mm (Top end); Height: 39mm (Main button) |
| Weight | 68 grams |
| Inputs | Pressure-sensitive tip, pressure-sensitive main button, clickable 2D touch strip, dual-sided grip buttons, menu button, system button |
| Haptics | Yes, integrated |
| Stylus Tips | POM, interchangeable |
| Required OS | Windows 10 (64-bit) |
| Compatible Headsets | HTC Vive, HTC Vive Pro, Valve Index, Varjo |
Reception
The Logitech VR Ink received positive impressions from technology reviewers who had the opportunity to test it. The precision and pressure sensitivity of the stylus were particularly praised, with some comparing it favorably to professional drawing tablets like those from Wacom.[4]
Reviewers also noted that the device addressed an important gap in VR input methods, especially for professional users who required more precision than what was offered by standard VR controllers. The familiar pen-like form factor was highlighted as a significant advantage, allowing users to leverage existing drawing skills in VR environments.[2]
However, the high price point of $750 was identified as a potential barrier to widespread adoption, along with the relatively short battery life of 2.5 hours.[11] The device was clearly positioned as an enterprise product rather than a consumer accessory.
Early enterprise evaluators such as Design Partners highlighted the stylus' ability to merge 2-D sketch workflows with room-scale prototyping. According to testimonials, the time required to create full-scale mockups could be reduced from years to months using VR tools like the Logitech VR Ink.[12]
Legacy and Successor
The Logitech VR Ink Pilot Edition represented Logitech's first entry into specialized VR input devices. While it was primarily targeted at a niche enterprise market, it demonstrated the potential for more precise and intuitive input methods in virtual reality beyond the standard controllers.
In June 2024, Logitech announced a successor to the VR Ink called the MX Ink, with availability starting in September 2024, designed specifically for Meta Quest headsets (compatible with Quest 2, Quest 3, and Quest 3S).[13] Unlike the original VR Ink, which required external SteamVR tracking base stations, the MX Ink utilizes the inside-out tracking capabilities of the Quest headsets.
The MX Ink was positioned at a significantly lower price point of $129.99, making it more accessible to a broader range of users.[14] It features several improvements over the original VR Ink:
- Lighter weight: 29 grams (compared to 68 grams)
- Longer battery life: up to 7 hours (compared to 2.5+ hours)
- Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth
- USB-C or pogo-pin charging options with the optional MX Inkwell charging dock and optional MX Mat
- Integration with Meta Quest's settings UI for customization
The MX Ink represented a continuation of Logitech's exploration of stylus input for VR/AR applications, but with deeper platform integration and a more consumer-friendly approach compared to the original VR Ink.
See Also
References
- ↑ "Logitech Introduces World's First Room-Scale Virtual Reality Stylus". Logitech. May 29, 2019. https://news.logitech.com/press-releases/news-details/2019/Logitech-Introduces-Worlds-First-Room-Scale-Virtual-Reality-Stylus/default.aspx.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 "Hands-on: Logitech is Building the VR Stylus That Needs to Exist". Road to VR. May 29, 2019. https://www.roadtovr.com/logitech-vr-ink-stylus-hands-on-steamvr-tracking/.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "GitHub - Logitech/vr_ink_sdk: Logitech VR Ink SDK repository". GitHub. https://github.com/Logitech/vr_ink_sdk.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 "Logitech's VR Stylus for SteamVR Now Available for Pre-order for $750". Road to VR. December 19, 2019. https://www.roadtovr.com/logitech-vr-stylus-pre-order-vr-ink-pilot-edition-price-release-date/.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 "Logitech VR Ink Pilot Edition Datasheet". Logitech. https://www.logitech.com/assets/65708/vr-ink.pdf.
- ↑ "Logitech VR Ink Driver on Steam". Steam. January 27, 2020. https://store.steampowered.com/app/1068300/Logitech_VR_Ink_Driver/.
- ↑ "Logitech VR Ink Driver System Requirements". PCGameBenchmark. https://www.pcgamebenchmark.com/logitech-vr-ink-driver-system-requirements.
- ↑ "Logitech VR Ink Pilot Edition Stylus lets you be three-dimensionally creative". Gadget Flow. https://thegadgetflow.com/product/logitech-vr-ink-pilot-edition/.
- ↑ "Logitech VR Ink Integration brings a completely new workflow to the table". flyingshapes. March 27, 2020. https://www.flyingshapes.com/logitech-vr-ink-integration.
- ↑ "Logitech's VR Stylus Now Available for Pre-Order". VRGear.com. 2019-12-27. https://vrgear.com/logitech-vr-stylus-now-available-for-pre-order/. Retrieved May 8, 2025.
- ↑ "Logitech's New VR Stylus Is Launching In February 2020, And Is Ridiculously Expensive". UploadVR. 2019-12-20. https://uploadvr.com/logitech-vr-ink-expensive/. Retrieved May 8, 2025.
- ↑ "Logitech's New VR Stylus Gets a Test Run From Design Partners". ARPost. November 30, 2020. https://arpost.co/2020/11/30/logitechs-vr-stylus-test-run-design-partners/.
- ↑ "Logitech's New MX Ink Is Like a 3D Apple Pencil for Meta Quest Artists". CNET. 2024-06-17. https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/logitechs-new-mx-ink-is-like-a-3d-apple-pencil-for-meta-quest-artists/. Retrieved May 8, 2025.
- ↑ "Logitech MX Ink Is A Tracked Stylus For Meta Quest". UploadVR. June 17, 2024. https://www.uploadvr.com/logitech-mx-ink-for-meta-quest/.