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The [[Varjo XR-4]] is a professional [[PC-Powered VR|PC-powered]] [[mixed reality]] and [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] announced on November 27, 2023, by [[Varjo|Varjo Technologies]]. Representing the fourth generation of Varjo's mixed reality technology, the XR-4 series eliminated subscription requirements, introduced inside-out tracking as standard, and offered professional-grade specifications at a revised price point for its class.<ref | The [[Varjo XR-4]] is a professional [[PC-Powered VR|PC-powered]] [[mixed reality]] and [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] announced on November 27, 2023, by [[Varjo|Varjo Technologies]].<ref name="varjo-xr4-product" /> Representing the fourth generation of Varjo's mixed reality technology, the XR-4 series eliminated subscription requirements, introduced inside-out tracking as standard, and offered professional-grade specifications at a revised price point for its class.<ref name="varjo-announcement" /> | ||
==History== | ==History== | ||
The XR-4 development began in 2022 following feedback from [[Varjo XR-3]] customers and success of the subscription-free [[Varjo Aero]]. Key development goals included democratizing professional mixed reality, aiming for high visual fidelity in both virtual and passthrough modes, and eliminating external tracking requirements.<ref | The XR-4 development began in 2022 following feedback from [[Varjo XR-3]] customers and success of the subscription-free [[Varjo Aero]]. Key development goals included democratizing professional mixed reality, aiming for high visual fidelity in both virtual and passthrough modes, and eliminating external tracking requirements.<ref name="cnbc" /> | ||
Major | ===Major Improvements over XR-3=== | ||
51 PPD uniform resolution (vs dual-display system) | *51 PPD uniform resolution (vs dual-display system) | ||
20-megapixel passthrough cameras (vs 12MP) | *20-megapixel [[passthrough cameras]] (vs 12MP) | ||
Inside-out tracking standard (vs external base stations) | *[[Inside-out tracking]] standard (vs external base stations) | ||
Significant price reduction for the standard model with no subscription | *Significant price reduction for the standard model with no subscription | ||
Passthrough resolution of 33 PPD (Standard Edition) or 51 PPD (Focal Edition) | *Passthrough resolution of 33 PPD (Standard Edition) or 51 PPD (Focal Edition) | ||
==Technical Specifications== | ==Technical Specifications== | ||
===Display Technology=== | ===Display Technology=== | ||
The XR-4 uses advanced Mini-LED panels: | The XR-4 uses advanced Mini-LED panels: | ||
'''Resolution''': 3840×3744 per eye (14.8 megapixels total) | *'''Resolution''': 3840×3744 per eye (14.8 megapixels total) | ||
'''Pixel Density''': 51 pixels per degree (uniform) | *'''Pixel Density''': 51 pixels per degree (uniform) | ||
'''Panel Type''': Fast-switching Mini-LED with local dimming | *'''Panel Type''': Fast-switching Mini-LED with local dimming | ||
'''Brightness''': 200 nits sustained | *'''Brightness''': 200 nits sustained | ||
'''Contrast''': 10,000:1 with local dimming | *'''Contrast''': 10,000:1 with local dimming | ||
'''Color Gamut''': 96% DCI-P3, 98% sRGB | *'''Color Gamut''': 96% DCI-P3, 98% sRGB | ||
===Mixed Reality Cameras=== | ===Mixed Reality Cameras=== | ||
High-resolution passthrough system: | High-resolution passthrough system: | ||
'''RGB Cameras''': Dual 20-megapixel global shutter sensors | *'''RGB Cameras''': Dual 20-megapixel global shutter sensors | ||
'''Passthrough Resolution''': 33 PPD (XR-4 Standard Edition), 51 PPD (XR-4 Focal Edition, matching virtual content) | *'''Passthrough Resolution''': 33 PPD (XR-4 Standard Edition), 51 PPD (XR-4 Focal Edition, matching virtual content) | ||
'''Frame Rate''': 90 fps with ~22ms latency | *'''Frame Rate''': 90 fps with ~22ms latency | ||
'''Dynamic Range''': 14 stops with HDR processing | *'''Dynamic Range''': 14 stops with HDR processing | ||
'''Low Light''': ISO 25,600 equivalent sensitivity | *'''Low Light''': ISO 25,600 equivalent sensitivity | ||
===LiDAR Depth System=== | ===LiDAR Depth System=== | ||
Enhanced from XR-3: | Enhanced from XR-3: | ||
'''Resolution''': 300,000 points (300 kpix) | *'''Resolution''': 300,000 points (300 kpix) | ||
'''Range''': 0.2m to 7m (extended from 5m) | *'''Range''': 0.2m to 7m (extended from 5m) | ||
'''Accuracy''': ±2mm at 1m distance | *'''Accuracy''': ±2mm at 1m distance | ||
'''Frame Rate''': 30 fps depth updates (Note: some sources may vary) | *'''Frame Rate''': 30 fps depth updates (Note: some sources may vary) | ||
'''Coverage''': 94° × 78° depth sensing FOV | *'''Coverage''': 94° × 78° depth sensing FOV | ||
==Breakthrough Features== | ==Breakthrough Features== | ||
===Gaze-Driven Autofocus (Focal Edition)=== | ===Gaze-Driven Autofocus (Focal Edition)=== | ||
World's first XR autofocus system: | World's first XR autofocus system:<ref name="varjo-autofocus" /> | ||
'''Technology''': Liquid lens with 200Hz response | *'''Technology''': Liquid lens with 200Hz response | ||
'''Focus Range''': 20cm to infinity | *'''Focus Range''': 20cm to infinity | ||
'''Eye-Coupled''': Focus follows gaze automatically | *'''Eye-Coupled''': Focus follows gaze automatically | ||
'''Latency''': <5ms focus adjustment | *'''Latency''': <5ms focus adjustment | ||
'''Applications''': Aims to solve vergence-accommodation conflict | *'''Applications''': Aims to solve vergence-accommodation conflict | ||
===Inside-Out Tracking=== | |||
===[[Inside-Out Tracking]]=== | |||
Professional-grade markerless tracking: | Professional-grade markerless tracking: | ||
'''Cameras''': 4× wide-angle tracking sensors | *'''Cameras''': 4× wide-angle tracking sensors | ||
'''Algorithm''': Advanced SLAM with ML enhancement | *'''Algorithm''': Advanced SLAM with ML enhancement | ||
'''Accuracy''': Sub-millimeter precision | *'''Accuracy''': Sub-millimeter precision | ||
'''Range''': 7-meter radius tracking volume | *'''Range''': 7-meter radius tracking volume | ||
'''Persistence''': Remembers room layout | *'''Persistence''': Remembers room layout | ||
===Integrated Hand Tracking=== | ===Integrated Hand Tracking=== | ||
Built-in hand interaction: | Built-in hand interaction: | ||
'''Technology''': Computer vision with neural networks | *'''Technology''': Computer vision with neural networks | ||
'''Fingers Tracked''': All 10 fingers with 21 points each | *'''Fingers Tracked''': All 10 fingers with 21 points each | ||
'''Latency''': 11ms hand-to-photon | *'''Latency''': 11ms hand-to-photon | ||
'''Gestures''': Library of standard XR interactions | *'''Gestures''': Library of standard XR interactions | ||
'''SDK''': Direct hand data access for developers | *'''SDK''': Direct hand data access for developers | ||
==Software Ecosystem== | ==Software Ecosystem== | ||
===No Subscription Model=== | ===No Subscription Model=== | ||
Following Aero's success: | Following Aero's success: | ||
'''One-Time Purchase''': Starting at $3,990 for XR-4 Standard Edition | *'''One-Time Purchase''': Starting at $3,990 for XR-4 Standard Edition | ||
'''All Features Included''': No feature tiers within an edition | *'''All Features Included''': No feature tiers within an edition | ||
'''Free Updates''': Lifetime software support | *'''Free Updates''': Lifetime software support | ||
'''Professional Tools''': Full SDK access | *'''Professional Tools''': Full SDK access | ||
===Varjo Controller Software=== | ===Varjo Controller Software=== | ||
New unified control system: | New unified control system: | ||
'''Device Management''': Configure all settings | *'''Device Management''': Configure all settings | ||
'''Performance Monitoring''': Real-time diagnostics | *'''Performance Monitoring''': Real-time diagnostics | ||
'''User Profiles''': Save multiple configurations | *'''User Profiles''': Save multiple configurations | ||
'''Cloud Sync''': Settings backup and restore | *'''Cloud Sync''': Settings backup and restore | ||
===Development Support=== | ===Development Support=== | ||
'''Unity Plugin''': Native XR-4 features | *'''[[Unity]] Plugin''': Native XR-4 features | ||
'''Unreal Engine 5''': Full integration with Nanite/Lumen | *'''[[Unreal Engine]] 5''': Full integration with Nanite/Lumen | ||
'''OpenXR Extensions''': Varjo-specific features | *'''[[OpenXR]] Extensions''': Varjo-specific features | ||
'''NVIDIA Omniverse''': RTX rendering support | *'''[[NVIDIA Omniverse]]''': RTX rendering support | ||
==Variants== | ==Variants== | ||
===XR-4 Standard Edition=== | ===XR-4 Standard Edition=== | ||
Base professional model: | Base professional model: | ||
All core features | *All core features | ||
20MP passthrough (33 PPD) | *20MP passthrough (33 PPD) | ||
300k LiDAR | *300k LiDAR | ||
$3,990 | *$3,990 | ||
===XR-4 Focal Edition=== | |||
===[[XR-4 Focal Edition]]=== | |||
With gaze-driven autofocus: | With gaze-driven autofocus: | ||
All Standard features plus: | *All Standard features plus: | ||
Liquid lens autofocus system | *Liquid lens autofocus system | ||
20MP passthrough (51 PPD) | *20MP passthrough (51 PPD) | ||
Enhanced eye tracking data | *Enhanced eye tracking data | ||
$9,990 | *$9,990 | ||
===XR-4 Secure Edition=== | ===[[XR-4 Secure Edition]]=== | ||
Government/Defense variant: | Government/Defense variant:<ref name="varjo-secure" /> | ||
[[TAA]]/[[BAA]] compliant | *[[TAA]]/[[BAA]] compliant | ||
Secure boot process | *Secure boot process | ||
Offline operation mode | *Offline operation mode | ||
Manufactured in secure facility | *Manufactured in secure facility | ||
ITAR-free for international use | *ITAR-free for international use | ||
==System Requirements== | ==System Requirements== | ||
===Minimum Specifications=== | |||
'''OS''': Windows 10 version 20H2 or Windows 11 | *'''OS''': Windows 10 version 20H2 or Windows 11 | ||
'''CPU''': Intel Core i9-11900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X (or comparable) | *'''CPU''': Intel Core i9-11900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X (or comparable) | ||
'''GPU''': NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, RTX 3080, RTX 2080 Ti, or NVIDIA RTX A5000 (or comparable AMD GPU) | *'''GPU''': NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, RTX 3080, RTX 2080 Ti, or NVIDIA RTX A5000 (or comparable AMD GPU) | ||
'''RAM''': 32 GB DDR4-3200 | *'''RAM''': 32 GB DDR4-3200 | ||
'''Storage''': 1 TB NVMe SSD | *'''Storage''': 1 TB NVMe SSD | ||
'''USB''': Thunderbolt 4 or USB-C with DP Alt Mode | *'''USB''': Thunderbolt 4 or USB-C with DP Alt Mode | ||
===Recommended Specifications=== | |||
'''CPU''': Intel Core i9-13900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X | *'''CPU''': Intel Core i9-13900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X | ||
'''GPU''': NVIDIA RTX 4090 or RTX 6000 Ada | *'''GPU''': NVIDIA RTX 4090 or RTX 6000 Ada | ||
'''RAM''': 64 GB DDR5 | *'''RAM''': 64 GB DDR5 | ||
'''Storage''': 2 TB NVMe Gen4 SSD | *'''Storage''': 2 TB NVMe Gen4 SSD | ||
==Industry Applications== | ==Industry Applications== | ||
===Automotive Industry=== | ===Automotive Industry=== | ||
Enhanced design validation: | Enhanced design validation: | ||
'''[[BMW Group]]''': Full vehicle design in MR | *'''[[BMW Group]]''': Full vehicle design in MR | ||
'''[[Stellantis]]''': Global design collaboration | *'''[[Stellantis]]''': Global design collaboration | ||
'''[[Rimac Automobili]]''': Hypercar development | *'''[[Rimac Automobili]]''': Hypercar development | ||
'''[[Polestar]]''': Sustainable material visualization | *'''[[Polestar]]''': Sustainable material visualization | ||
Use cases: | Use cases: | ||
Design reviews with physical clay models | *Design reviews with physical clay models | ||
Ergonomics testing with real drivers | *Ergonomics testing with real drivers | ||
HMI development and testing | *HMI development and testing | ||
Virtual showrooms with real products | *Virtual showrooms with real products | ||
===Healthcare and Medical=== | ===Healthcare and Medical=== | ||
'''[[Cleveland Clinic]]''': Surgical planning in MR | *'''[[Cleveland Clinic]]''': Surgical planning in MR | ||
'''[[Karolinska Institute]]''': Medical education | *'''[[Karolinska Institute]]''': Medical education | ||
'''[[Brainlab]]''': Image-guided surgery | *'''[[Brainlab]]''': Image-guided surgery | ||
'''[[Siemens Healthineers]]''': MRI/CT visualization | *'''[[Siemens Healthineers]]''': MRI/CT visualization | ||
Applications: | Applications: | ||
Pre-operative planning with patient data | *Pre-operative planning with patient data | ||
Medical device training | *Medical device training | ||
Anatomy education with cadavers | *Anatomy education with cadavers | ||
Rehabilitation therapy | *Rehabilitation therapy | ||
===Architecture and Construction=== | ===Architecture and Construction=== | ||
'''[[Zaha Hadid Architects]]''': Parametric design review | *'''[[Zaha Hadid Architects]]''': Parametric design review | ||
'''[[AECOM]]''': Infrastructure visualization | *'''[[AECOM]]''': Infrastructure visualization | ||
'''[[Trimble]]''': BIM integration | *'''[[Trimble]]''': BIM integration | ||
'''[[Autodesk]]''': Native Revit support | *'''[[Autodesk]]''': Native Revit support | ||
===Defense and Aerospace=== | ===Defense and Aerospace=== | ||
'''[[Lockheed Martin]]''': F-35 maintenance | *'''[[Lockheed Martin]]''': F-35 maintenance | ||
'''[[Saab]]''': Gripen pilot training | *'''[[Saab]]''': Gripen pilot training | ||
'''[[BAE Systems]]''': Ship design review | *'''[[BAE Systems]]''': Ship design review | ||
'''Various contractors''': Classified programs | *'''Various contractors''': Classified programs | ||
==Market Reception== | ==Market Reception== | ||
===Launch Impact=== | ===Launch Impact=== | ||
The XR-4 announcement generated significant attention: | The XR-4 announcement generated significant attention<ref name="skarredghost" />: | ||
'''Price Point''': $3,990 for the standard edition was a notable reduction from the previous XR-3. | *'''Price Point''': $3,990 for the standard edition was a notable reduction from the previous XR-3. | ||
'''No Subscription''': Praised by enterprise customers. | *'''No Subscription''': Praised by enterprise customers. | ||
'''Feature Set''': Considered comprehensive for its price in the professional market. | *'''Feature Set''': Considered comprehensive for its price in the professional market. | ||
'''Availability''': Global launch in 40+ countries. | *'''Availability''': Global launch in 40+ countries.<ref name="auganix" /> | ||
===Critical Response=== | ===Critical Response=== | ||
Professional reviews were generally positive, highlighting advancements: | Professional reviews were generally positive, highlighting advancements: | ||
'''[[Road to VR]]''': "The XR-4 redefines what's possible in mixed reality" | *'''[[Road to VR]]''': "The XR-4 redefines what's possible in mixed reality" | ||
'''[[UploadVR]]''': "Professional MR at prosumer pricing" (Note: "prosumer pricing" is relative to the high-end professional market) | *'''[[UploadVR]]''': "Professional MR at prosumer pricing" (Note: "prosumer pricing" is relative to the high-end professional market) | ||
'''[[VRFocus]]''': "Inside-out tracking rivals base station precision" | *'''[[VRFocus]]''': "Inside-out tracking rivals base station precision" | ||
Common | |||
Passthrough quality is a key focus, with Varjo aiming for experiences "indistinguishable from natural sight," though user experiences may vary. | ====Common Praise==== | ||
Autofocus system (Focal Edition) "game-changing" for MR. | *Passthrough quality is a key focus, with Varjo aiming for experiences "indistinguishable from natural sight," though user experiences may vary. | ||
Price/performance ratio considered strong for the professional segment. | *Autofocus system (Focal Edition) "game-changing" for MR. | ||
Ergonomics significantly improved. | *Price/performance ratio considered strong for the professional segment. | ||
Criticisms | *Ergonomics significantly improved. | ||
High PC requirements remain. | |||
No wireless option at launch. | ====Criticisms==== | ||
Hand tracking, while improved, may occasionally lose precision. | *High PC requirements remain. | ||
Passthrough quality, while high, may not always meet the "indistinguishable from reality" claim under all conditions, according to some hands-on reviews. | *No wireless option at launch. | ||
Limited battery for future standalone use (if such a version were developed). | *Hand tracking, while improved, may occasionally lose precision. | ||
*Passthrough quality, while high, may not always meet the "indistinguishable from reality" claim under all conditions, according to some hands-on reviews. | |||
*Limited battery for future standalone use (if such a version were developed). | |||
==Technical Innovations== | ==Technical Innovations== | ||
===CloudXR Integration=== | ===CloudXR Integration=== | ||
Streaming MR capabilities: | Streaming MR capabilities: | ||
'''NVIDIA CloudXR''': RTX server rendering | *'''NVIDIA CloudXR''': RTX server rendering | ||
'''5G Support''': Ultra-low latency streaming | *'''5G Support''': Ultra-low latency streaming | ||
'''Edge Computing''': Local cloud deployment | *'''Edge Computing''': Local cloud deployment | ||
'''Multi-User''': Synchronized MR sessions | *'''Multi-User''': Synchronized MR sessions | ||
===AI-Enhanced Processing=== | ===AI-Enhanced Processing=== | ||
Machine learning throughout: | Machine learning throughout: | ||
'''Passthrough Enhancement''': AI upscaling and denoising | *'''[[Passthrough]] Enhancement''': AI upscaling and denoising | ||
'''Hand Tracking''': Neural network gesture recognition | *'''[[Hand Tracking]]''': Neural network gesture recognition | ||
'''Eye Tracking''': Predictive gaze estimation | *'''[[Eye Tracking]]''': Predictive gaze estimation | ||
'''SLAM''': ML-assisted tracking robustness | *'''[[SLAM]]''': ML-assisted tracking robustness | ||
===Optics Engineering=== | ===Optics Engineering=== | ||
'''Dual-Element Lenses''': Reduced aberrations | *'''Dual-Element Lenses''': Reduced aberrations | ||
'''Coating Technology''': 99.5% light transmission | *'''Coating Technology''': 99.5% light transmission | ||
'''Edge-to-Edge Clarity''': <2% distortion at edges | *'''Edge-to-Edge Clarity''': <2% distortion at edges | ||
'''Pancake Design''': Considered but rejected for quality | *'''Pancake Design''': Considered but rejected for quality | ||
==Manufacturing Excellence== | ==Manufacturing Excellence== | ||
===Helsinki Production=== | ===Helsinki Production=== | ||
In-house manufacturing advantages: | In-house manufacturing advantages: | ||
'''Quality Control''': 100% optical calibration | *'''Quality Control''': 100% optical calibration | ||
'''Lead Time''': 5-day average shipping | *'''Lead Time''': 5-day average shipping | ||
'''Customization''': OEM versions available | *'''Customization''': OEM versions available | ||
'''Sustainability''': Carbon neutral facility | *'''Sustainability''': Carbon neutral facility | ||
===Component Partners=== | ===Component Partners=== | ||
'''Display Panels''': BOE (custom Mini-LED) | *'''Display Panels''': BOE (custom Mini-LED) | ||
''' | *'''[[Camera]]s''': Sony (IMX sensors) | ||
'''LiDAR''': Proprietary Varjo design | *'''[[LiDAR]]''': Proprietary Varjo design | ||
''' | *'''[[Lense]]s''': ZEISS (coating technology) | ||
==Competitive Landscape== | ==Competitive Landscape== | ||
===Versus Apple Vision Pro=== | ===Versus Apple Vision Pro=== | ||
'''XR-4 Advantages''': Higher virtual resolution, PC-powered performance for demanding applications, established professional ecosystem, potentially more robust tracking for certain professional use cases. | '''XR-4 Advantages''': Higher virtual resolution, PC-powered performance for demanding applications, established professional ecosystem, potentially more robust tracking for certain professional use cases. | ||
'''Vision Pro Advantages''': Standalone operation, advanced consumer-facing OS and apps, highly integrated hand/eye tracking for its interface. | '''Vision Pro Advantages''': Standalone operation, advanced consumer-facing OS and apps, highly integrated hand/eye tracking for its interface. | ||
===Versus Meta Quest Pro/3=== | ===Versus Meta Quest Pro/3=== | ||
'''XR-4 Advantages''': Significantly higher resolution, professional-grade tools and support, superior passthrough fidelity (especially Focal Edition). | '''XR-4 Advantages''': Significantly higher resolution, professional-grade tools and support, superior passthrough fidelity (especially Focal Edition). | ||
'''Quest Advantages''': Standalone, much lower price, larger consumer content library. | '''Quest Advantages''': Standalone, much lower price, larger consumer content library. | ||
===Versus HTC Vive XR Elite=== | ===Versus HTC Vive XR Elite=== | ||
'''XR-4 Advantages''': Higher resolution, generally superior passthrough quality, more advanced eye tracking. | '''XR-4 Advantages''': Higher resolution, generally superior passthrough quality, more advanced eye tracking. | ||
'''Vive Advantages''': Standalone option, lower price point. | '''Vive Advantages''': Standalone option, lower price point. | ||
==Future Roadmap== | ==Future Roadmap== | ||
While not officially announced, industry sources suggest: | While not officially announced, industry sources suggest: | ||
Standalone version in development | *Standalone version in development | ||
Wireless adapter planned for 2025 | *Wireless adapter planned for 2025 | ||
8K per eye displays in testing | *8K per eye displays in testing | ||
AI copilot for enterprise applications | *AI copilot for enterprise applications | ||
==Impact on Industry== | ==Impact on Industry== | ||
The XR-4's launch influenced the mixed reality landscape: | *The XR-4's launch influenced the mixed reality landscape: | ||
Set a new benchmark for professional MR features at its price point. | *Set a new benchmark for professional MR features at its price point. | ||
Reinforced the demand for 50+ PPD for detailed professional use. | *Reinforced the demand for 50+ PPD for detailed professional use. | ||
Accelerated inside-out tracking adoption in the professional space. | *Accelerated inside-out tracking adoption in the professional space. | ||
Validated the no-subscription model for enterprise hardware. | *Validated the no-subscription model for enterprise hardware. | ||
Technologies popularized: | *Technologies popularized: | ||
Gaze-driven autofocus for XR (Focal Edition). | *Gaze-driven autofocus for XR (Focal Edition). | ||
20MP+ passthrough cameras. | *20MP+ passthrough cameras. | ||
300k+ point LiDAR integration. | *300k+ point LiDAR integration. | ||
Uniform high-PPD displays. | *Uniform high-PPD displays. | ||
==See Also== | ==See Also== | ||
[[Mixed reality]] | *[[Mixed reality]] | ||
[[Varjo|Varjo Technologies]] | *[[Varjo|Varjo Technologies]] | ||
[[Varjo XR-3]] | *[[Varjo XR-3]] | ||
[[Varjo Aero]] | *[[Varjo Aero]] | ||
[[Apple Vision Pro]] | *[[Apple Vision Pro]] | ||
[[LiDAR]] | *[[LiDAR]] | ||
[[Inside-out tracking]] | *[[Inside-out tracking]] | ||
[[Foveated rendering]] | *[[Foveated rendering]] | ||
[[TAA compliance]] | *[[TAA compliance]] | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
<references> | <references> | ||
Latest revision as of 03:00, 5 June 2025
| Varjo XR-4 | |
|---|---|
| |
| Basic Info | |
| VR/AR | Mixed Reality, Virtual Reality |
| Type | Head-mounted display |
| Subtype | PC-Powered VR |
| Platform | SteamVR, OpenXR |
| Developer | Varjo |
| Manufacturer | Varjo |
| Announcement Date | November 27, 2023 |
| Release Date | November 2023 |
| Price | $3,990 (XR-4 Standard Edition, no subscription) |
| Website | https://varjo.com |
| Versions | XR-4, XR-4 Focal Edition, XR-4 Secure Edition |
| Requires | High-end PC |
| Predecessor | Varjo XR-3 |
| Successor | ????? |
| System | |
| Operating System | Windows 10/11 (64-bit) |
| Storage | |
| SD Card Slot | No |
| Display | |
| Display | Mini-LED |
| Subpixel Layout | RGB |
| Peak Brightness | 200 nits |
| Resolution | 3840×3744 per eye |
| Pixel Density | 51 PPD |
| Refresh Rate | 90 Hz (120 Hz experimental) |
| Persistence | Low persistence |
| Precision | Sub-pixel precision |
| Image | |
| Field of View | 120° × 105° (H×V) |
| Horizontal FoV | 120° |
| Vertical FoV | 105° |
| Visible FoV | 120° × 105° |
| Rendered FoV | 120° × 105° |
| Binocular Overlap | 105° |
| Average Pixel Density | 51 PPD |
| Peak Pixel Density | 51 PPD |
| Foveated Rendering | Yes (dynamic) |
| Optics | |
| Optics | Dual-element aspheric lenses |
| Ocularity | Binocular |
| IPD Range | 55-75mm (automatic adjustment) |
| Adjustable Diopter | No |
| Passthrough | Yes (20MP cameras + 300k LiDAR) |
| Tracking | |
| Tracking | Inside-out (4 cameras) |
| Tracking Frequency | 200 Hz |
| Base Stations | Not required (optional support) |
| Eye Tracking | Yes (200Hz) |
| Hand Tracking | Yes (integrated) |
| Rotational Tracking | 6DOF |
| Positional Tracking | 6DOF |
| Update Rate | 200 Hz |
| Tracking Volume | 7m radius |
| Play Space | Room-scale |
| Latency | ~22ms (passthrough), less than 15ms (VR) |
| Audio | |
| Audio | DTS 3D spatial audio headphones |
| Microphone | Dual noise-cancelling |
| 3.5mm Audio Jack | Yes |
| Camera | 2× 20MP RGB, 1× 300k LiDAR sensor |
| Connectivity | |
| Connectivity | USB-C (Thunderbolt 4 compatible) |
| Ports | 1× USB-C |
| Wired Video | USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode |
| Power | USB-C Power Delivery |
| Device | |
| Dimensions | 280mm × 140mm × 120mm |
| Weight | 665g (headset only), 1021g (complete) |
| Material | Carbon fiber composite, magnesium |
| Headstrap | FlexFit ergonomic system |
| Haptics | No |
| Color | Black with carbon fiber accents |
| Sensors | 200Hz eye tracking, 9-axis IMU, ambient light sensor |
| Input | Hand tracking, SteamVR controllers |
| Compliance | CE, FCC, IC, UKCA, TAA (Secure Edition) |
| Size | Adjustable (S/M/L cushions) |
| Cable Length | 5 meters (16.4 ft) |
The Varjo XR-4 is a professional PC-powered mixed reality and virtual reality head-mounted display announced on November 27, 2023, by Varjo Technologies.[1] Representing the fourth generation of Varjo's mixed reality technology, the XR-4 series eliminated subscription requirements, introduced inside-out tracking as standard, and offered professional-grade specifications at a revised price point for its class.[2]
History
The XR-4 development began in 2022 following feedback from Varjo XR-3 customers and success of the subscription-free Varjo Aero. Key development goals included democratizing professional mixed reality, aiming for high visual fidelity in both virtual and passthrough modes, and eliminating external tracking requirements.[3]
Major Improvements over XR-3
- 51 PPD uniform resolution (vs dual-display system)
- 20-megapixel passthrough cameras (vs 12MP)
- Inside-out tracking standard (vs external base stations)
- Significant price reduction for the standard model with no subscription
- Passthrough resolution of 33 PPD (Standard Edition) or 51 PPD (Focal Edition)
Technical Specifications
Display Technology
The XR-4 uses advanced Mini-LED panels:
- Resolution: 3840×3744 per eye (14.8 megapixels total)
- Pixel Density: 51 pixels per degree (uniform)
- Panel Type: Fast-switching Mini-LED with local dimming
- Brightness: 200 nits sustained
- Contrast: 10,000:1 with local dimming
- Color Gamut: 96% DCI-P3, 98% sRGB
Mixed Reality Cameras
High-resolution passthrough system:
- RGB Cameras: Dual 20-megapixel global shutter sensors
- Passthrough Resolution: 33 PPD (XR-4 Standard Edition), 51 PPD (XR-4 Focal Edition, matching virtual content)
- Frame Rate: 90 fps with ~22ms latency
- Dynamic Range: 14 stops with HDR processing
- Low Light: ISO 25,600 equivalent sensitivity
LiDAR Depth System
Enhanced from XR-3:
- Resolution: 300,000 points (300 kpix)
- Range: 0.2m to 7m (extended from 5m)
- Accuracy: ±2mm at 1m distance
- Frame Rate: 30 fps depth updates (Note: some sources may vary)
- Coverage: 94° × 78° depth sensing FOV
Breakthrough Features
Gaze-Driven Autofocus (Focal Edition)
World's first XR autofocus system:[4]
- Technology: Liquid lens with 200Hz response
- Focus Range: 20cm to infinity
- Eye-Coupled: Focus follows gaze automatically
- Latency: <5ms focus adjustment
- Applications: Aims to solve vergence-accommodation conflict
Inside-Out Tracking
Professional-grade markerless tracking:
- Cameras: 4× wide-angle tracking sensors
- Algorithm: Advanced SLAM with ML enhancement
- Accuracy: Sub-millimeter precision
- Range: 7-meter radius tracking volume
- Persistence: Remembers room layout
Integrated Hand Tracking
Built-in hand interaction:
- Technology: Computer vision with neural networks
- Fingers Tracked: All 10 fingers with 21 points each
- Latency: 11ms hand-to-photon
- Gestures: Library of standard XR interactions
- SDK: Direct hand data access for developers
Software Ecosystem
No Subscription Model
Following Aero's success:
- One-Time Purchase: Starting at $3,990 for XR-4 Standard Edition
- All Features Included: No feature tiers within an edition
- Free Updates: Lifetime software support
- Professional Tools: Full SDK access
Varjo Controller Software
New unified control system:
- Device Management: Configure all settings
- Performance Monitoring: Real-time diagnostics
- User Profiles: Save multiple configurations
- Cloud Sync: Settings backup and restore
Development Support
- Unity Plugin: Native XR-4 features
- Unreal Engine 5: Full integration with Nanite/Lumen
- OpenXR Extensions: Varjo-specific features
- NVIDIA Omniverse: RTX rendering support
Variants
XR-4 Standard Edition
Base professional model:
- All core features
- 20MP passthrough (33 PPD)
- 300k LiDAR
- $3,990
XR-4 Focal Edition
With gaze-driven autofocus:
- All Standard features plus:
- Liquid lens autofocus system
- 20MP passthrough (51 PPD)
- Enhanced eye tracking data
- $9,990
XR-4 Secure Edition
Government/Defense variant:[5]
- TAA/BAA compliant
- Secure boot process
- Offline operation mode
- Manufactured in secure facility
- ITAR-free for international use
System Requirements
Minimum Specifications
- OS: Windows 10 version 20H2 or Windows 11
- CPU: Intel Core i9-11900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X (or comparable)
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, RTX 3080, RTX 2080 Ti, or NVIDIA RTX A5000 (or comparable AMD GPU)
- RAM: 32 GB DDR4-3200
- Storage: 1 TB NVMe SSD
- USB: Thunderbolt 4 or USB-C with DP Alt Mode
Recommended Specifications
- CPU: Intel Core i9-13900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4090 or RTX 6000 Ada
- RAM: 64 GB DDR5
- Storage: 2 TB NVMe Gen4 SSD
Industry Applications
Automotive Industry
Enhanced design validation:
- BMW Group: Full vehicle design in MR
- Stellantis: Global design collaboration
- Rimac Automobili: Hypercar development
- Polestar: Sustainable material visualization
Use cases:
- Design reviews with physical clay models
- Ergonomics testing with real drivers
- HMI development and testing
- Virtual showrooms with real products
Healthcare and Medical
- Cleveland Clinic: Surgical planning in MR
- Karolinska Institute: Medical education
- Brainlab: Image-guided surgery
- Siemens Healthineers: MRI/CT visualization
Applications:
- Pre-operative planning with patient data
- Medical device training
- Anatomy education with cadavers
- Rehabilitation therapy
Architecture and Construction
- Zaha Hadid Architects: Parametric design review
- AECOM: Infrastructure visualization
- Trimble: BIM integration
- Autodesk: Native Revit support
Defense and Aerospace
- Lockheed Martin: F-35 maintenance
- Saab: Gripen pilot training
- BAE Systems: Ship design review
- Various contractors: Classified programs
Market Reception
Launch Impact
The XR-4 announcement generated significant attention[6]:
- Price Point: $3,990 for the standard edition was a notable reduction from the previous XR-3.
- No Subscription: Praised by enterprise customers.
- Feature Set: Considered comprehensive for its price in the professional market.
- Availability: Global launch in 40+ countries.[7]
Critical Response
Professional reviews were generally positive, highlighting advancements:
- Road to VR: "The XR-4 redefines what's possible in mixed reality"
- UploadVR: "Professional MR at prosumer pricing" (Note: "prosumer pricing" is relative to the high-end professional market)
- VRFocus: "Inside-out tracking rivals base station precision"
Common Praise
- Passthrough quality is a key focus, with Varjo aiming for experiences "indistinguishable from natural sight," though user experiences may vary.
- Autofocus system (Focal Edition) "game-changing" for MR.
- Price/performance ratio considered strong for the professional segment.
- Ergonomics significantly improved.
Criticisms
- High PC requirements remain.
- No wireless option at launch.
- Hand tracking, while improved, may occasionally lose precision.
- Passthrough quality, while high, may not always meet the "indistinguishable from reality" claim under all conditions, according to some hands-on reviews.
- Limited battery for future standalone use (if such a version were developed).
Technical Innovations
CloudXR Integration
Streaming MR capabilities:
- NVIDIA CloudXR: RTX server rendering
- 5G Support: Ultra-low latency streaming
- Edge Computing: Local cloud deployment
- Multi-User: Synchronized MR sessions
AI-Enhanced Processing
Machine learning throughout:
- Passthrough Enhancement: AI upscaling and denoising
- Hand Tracking: Neural network gesture recognition
- Eye Tracking: Predictive gaze estimation
- SLAM: ML-assisted tracking robustness
Optics Engineering
- Dual-Element Lenses: Reduced aberrations
- Coating Technology: 99.5% light transmission
- Edge-to-Edge Clarity: <2% distortion at edges
- Pancake Design: Considered but rejected for quality
Manufacturing Excellence
Helsinki Production
In-house manufacturing advantages:
- Quality Control: 100% optical calibration
- Lead Time: 5-day average shipping
- Customization: OEM versions available
- Sustainability: Carbon neutral facility
Component Partners
- Display Panels: BOE (custom Mini-LED)
- Cameras: Sony (IMX sensors)
- LiDAR: Proprietary Varjo design
- Lenses: ZEISS (coating technology)
Competitive Landscape
Versus Apple Vision Pro
XR-4 Advantages: Higher virtual resolution, PC-powered performance for demanding applications, established professional ecosystem, potentially more robust tracking for certain professional use cases.
Vision Pro Advantages: Standalone operation, advanced consumer-facing OS and apps, highly integrated hand/eye tracking for its interface.
Versus Meta Quest Pro/3
XR-4 Advantages: Significantly higher resolution, professional-grade tools and support, superior passthrough fidelity (especially Focal Edition).
Quest Advantages: Standalone, much lower price, larger consumer content library.
Versus HTC Vive XR Elite
XR-4 Advantages: Higher resolution, generally superior passthrough quality, more advanced eye tracking.
Vive Advantages: Standalone option, lower price point.
Future Roadmap
While not officially announced, industry sources suggest:
- Standalone version in development
- Wireless adapter planned for 2025
- 8K per eye displays in testing
- AI copilot for enterprise applications
Impact on Industry
- The XR-4's launch influenced the mixed reality landscape:
- Set a new benchmark for professional MR features at its price point.
- Reinforced the demand for 50+ PPD for detailed professional use.
- Accelerated inside-out tracking adoption in the professional space.
- Validated the no-subscription model for enterprise hardware.
- Technologies popularized:
- Gaze-driven autofocus for XR (Focal Edition).
- 20MP+ passthrough cameras.
- 300k+ point LiDAR integration.
- Uniform high-PPD displays.
See Also
- Mixed reality
- Varjo Technologies
- Varjo XR-3
- Varjo Aero
- Apple Vision Pro
- LiDAR
- Inside-out tracking
- Foveated rendering
- TAA compliance
References
- ↑ "Mixed Reality Headset for Professionals – Varjo XR-4 Series". Varjo. https://varjo.com/products/xr-4/.
- ↑ "Varjo Releases New XR-4 Series to Deliver Mixed Reality Experiences Indistinguishable from Natural Sight". Varjo. November 27, 2023. https://varjo.com/press-release/varjo-releases-new-xr-4-series-to-deliver-mixed-reality-experiences-indistinguishable-from-natural-sight/.
- ↑ "Finnish startup Varjo launches $3,990 XR-4 mixed reality headset". CNBC. November 27, 2023. https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/27/finnish-startup-varjo-launches-3990-xr-4-mixed-reality-headset.html.
- ↑ "XR-4 Features Explained: World's First Gaze-Driven XR Autofocus Camera System". Varjo. 2023. https://varjo.com/vr-lab/xr-4-features-explained-worlds-first-gaze-driven-xr-autofocus-camera-system/.
- ↑ "Mixed reality headset with TAA certification – Varjo XR-4 Secure Edition". Varjo. https://varjo.com/products/xr-4-secure-edition/.
- ↑ "Varjo announces XR-4 mixed reality headset with impressive resolution". The Ghost Howls. November 27, 2023. https://skarredghost.com/2023/11/27/varjo-xr-4-price-resolution/.
- ↑ "Varjo announces new XR-4 series headsets". Auganix. November 2023. https://www.auganix.org/xr-news-varjo-announces-new-xr-4-series-of-headsets/.