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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Lynx R-1
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-Mounted Display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[Standalone MR]]
|Subtype = [[Standalone VR]]
|Platform = [[Android]] (OpenXR)
|Platform = [[Android]] 12
|Creator = [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
|Developer = [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
|Developer = [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
|Manufacturer = [[Compal]]
|Manufacturer = [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
|Release Date = November 2022 (backers) / 2023 (retail)
|Announcement Date = 2021
|Announcement Date = February 3, 2020
|Release Date = 2023
|Price = $849 USD
|Price = $1,099 (Enterprise), ~$600 (Kickstarter)
|Website = https://www.lynx-r.com/
|Website = https://www.lynx-r.com/
|Chipset = Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1
|Versions = Lynx R-1, Lynx R-1 Enterprise
|Display = LCD (dual)
|Requires = None (standalone)
|Resolution = 1600x1600 per eye
|Predecessor = None
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Successor =
|Field of View = 90° (circular)
|Operating System = [[Android]] 12 (custom implementation)
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]]
|CPU = Octa-core Kryo 585 (1× 2.84 GHz + 3× 2.42 GHz + 4× 1.8 GHz)
|GPU = Adreno 650
|HPU =
|Storage = 128GB
|Memory = 6GB
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Dual LCD
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|Resolution = 1800 × 1800 per eye (3600 × 1800 combined)
|Pixel Density = ~20 PPD
|Refresh Rate = 90Hz
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 90°
|Horizontal FoV = ~90°
|Vertical FoV = ~90°
|Average Pixel Density = ~20 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = ~20 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Passthrough = Full-color RGB cameras
|IPD Range = 60-70mm (manual adjustment)
|Hand Tracking = Ultraleap
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|Cameras = 6 (2 B&W tracking, 2 IR hand, 2 RGB passthrough)
|Passthrough = Yes (full-color stereo)
|Audio = Stereo speakers + dual microphones
|Tracking = 6DoF inside-out (SLAM)
|Battery = ~2-3 hours
|Tracking Frequency = 60Hz
|Storage = 128GB + microSD (1TB max)
|Base Stations = None required
|RAM = 6GB
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = Yes (integrated)
|Body Tracking = No
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = 90Hz
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = ~50ms (passthrough)
|Audio = Integrated speakers
|Microphone = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = 2× B&W tracking cameras, 2× IR hand tracking cameras, 2× RGB passthrough cameras
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
|Ports = USB-C
|Wired Video = Yes (USB-C streaming)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
|Bluetooth = Bluetooth 5.2
|Power = Internal battery
|Battery Capacity = Not specified
|Battery Life = 2-3 hours
|Charge Time = ~2 hours
|Dimensions = Compact form factor
|Weight = ~350g (estimated)
|Material = Plastic
|Headstrap = Adjustable strap with flip-up visor
|Haptics = No (hand tracking based)
|Color = Black/Orange
|Sensors = 2× B&W tracking cameras, 2× IR hand tracking cameras, 2× RGB passthrough cameras, IMU
|Input = Hand tracking, voice, optional controllers
|Compliance = CE
}}
}}


The '''Lynx R-1''' is a standalone [[mixed reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by French startup [[Lynx Mixed Reality]], announced February 3, 2020 and released November 2022 (Kickstarter) / 2023 (retail) at $849. The first standalone headset designed from the ground up for both VR and AR, featuring unique 4-fold catadioptric freeform prism optics, 1600x1600 per eye LCD, Snapdragon XR2, full-color passthrough, Ultraleap hand tracking, flip-up visor design, and open periphery with rear-mounted battery.
The '''Lynx R-1''' is a standalone [[mixed reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Lynx Mixed Reality]], a French startup founded by Stan Larroque. Initially announced in 2021 through a Kickstarter campaign that raised over €900,000, the Lynx R-1 began shipping to backers and enterprise customers in 2023. The headset is notable for its unique "four-fold catadioptric freeform prism" optical design never seen in other consumer devices, enabling both VR immersion and AR passthrough in a compact, lightweight form factor. Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 processor running Android 12, the Lynx R-1 features an innovative flip-up visor design allowing users to transition between AR/VR mode and direct real-world viewing. With integrated hand tracking and full-color passthrough, the Lynx R-1 positions itself as an affordable alternative to devices like Meta Quest Pro for mixed reality applications.


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


Lynx Mixed Reality announced the R-1 on February 3, 2020, launching a Kickstarter campaign that raised over $800,000. Following pandemic-related supply chain delays, production began at Compal in mid-2023. The first certified retail units shipped to Kickstarter backers on November 18, 2022, with general availability in 2023. The R-1 distinguishes itself with unique catadioptric optics enabling a compact MR-first design.<ref name="lynx">{{cite web |url=https://www.lynx-r.com/ |title=Lynx Mixed Reality |publisher=Lynx Mixed Reality |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Company Origins ===
Lynx Mixed Reality was founded in Paris, France by Stan Larroque, a former engineer with experience in AR/VR hardware development. The company set out to create an affordable standalone mixed reality headset that could serve both consumer and enterprise markets.


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Kickstarter Campaign ===
Lynx launched a Kickstarter campaign in late 2021:
* Goal: €200,000
* Final funding: Over €900,000
* Backers: Approximately 2,000
* Early bird pricing: ~$600


=== Display ===
=== Development Challenges ===
The project faced typical hardware startup challenges:
* Supply chain disruptions
* Component availability issues
* Extended development timeline
* Delayed shipping to backers


LCD with unique optics:
=== Enterprise Pivot ===
Like many XR startups, Lynx shifted focus toward enterprise:
* Enterprise edition pricing at $1,099
* Business-focused features
* B2B sales strategy
* Training and industrial applications


* '''1600x1600 per eye''' resolution
=== 2024-2025 Status ===
* '''Dual LCD''' displays
The company acknowledged being less visible during 2024-2025 while navigating challenging market conditions, typical for small XR hardware companies competing against well-funded giants.
* '''90 Hz''' refresh rate
* '''90° circular FOV'''


=== Optics ===
== Design Philosophy ==


Catadioptric innovation:
=== Unique Optical Approach ===
Lynx's most distinctive feature is its proprietary optical system:
* Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism design
* Unlike pancake, Fresnel, or traditional lenses
* Enables compact form factor with good FOV
* Novel approach to VR/AR optical challenges


* '''4-fold catadioptric freeform prisms'''
=== AR-First Design ===
* Compact design
Built with mixed reality as primary use case:
* No Fresnel lenses
* No default light blockers
* Unique optical path
* Peripheral vision maintained
* Magnetic side covers available for VR mode
* Flip-up visor for instant real-world view


=== Processing ===
=== Flip-Up Visor ===
Unique mechanical design:
* Display can flip up above forehead
* Instant transition to real world
* No need to remove headset
* Practical for work environments


* '''Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1'''
== Display Technology ==
* '''6GB RAM'''
* '''128GB storage'''
* '''microSD expansion''' (1TB max)


=== Cameras ===
=== LCD Panels ===
Dual LCD displays:
* '''Resolution''': 1800 × 1800 per eye
* '''Total Resolution''': 3600 × 1800
* '''Refresh Rate''': 90Hz
* '''Aspect Ratio''': 1:1 square


6-camera system:
=== Field of View ===
Balanced FOV:
* '''Total''': ~90°
* Reasonable immersion for VR
* Adequate for AR overlays
* Compact optical path


* '''2 B&W''' (6DoF tracking)
=== Freeform Prism Optics ===
* '''2 IR''' (hand tracking)
The four-fold catadioptric freeform prism system:
* '''2 RGB''' (color passthrough)
* Light folded multiple times through prism
* Mixed reality capability
* Enables slim form factor
* Clear viewing without multiple lens elements
* Proprietary Lynx innovation


=== Passthrough ===
== Mixed Reality Capabilities ==


* '''Full-color RGB'''
=== Color Passthrough System ===
* Video see-through AR
Six-camera array enables various functions:
* Real-world overlay
* '''2× B&W cameras''': 6DoF positional tracking
* MR experiences
* '''2× IR cameras''': Hand tracking
* '''2× RGB cameras''': Color passthrough AR mode
 
=== Passthrough Quality ===
Full-color stereo passthrough:
* Better color accuracy than Quest 2 era
* Stereoscopic 3D depth
* Real-time video processing
* Some reported color temperature variance
 
=== AR Mode Operation ===
Without side covers:
* Peripheral vision of real world
* AR overlays on passthrough
* Environmental awareness
* Natural integration with surroundings
 
=== VR Mode ===
With magnetic covers:
* Full light blocking
* Complete VR immersion
* Standard VR experience
* Quick conversion between modes
 
== Tracking System ==
 
=== Inside-Out SLAM ===
Markerless positional tracking:
* Two B&W cameras for environment tracking
* 6DoF head tracking
* Room-scale capability
* No external hardware required


=== Hand Tracking ===
=== Hand Tracking ===
Integrated hand recognition:
* Two dedicated IR cameras
* Full articulated hand model
* Gesture-based interaction
* Primary input method (no included controllers)
=== Controller Support ===
Optional controller compatibility:
* Third-party controller support
* Bluetooth connectivity
* Hand tracking remains primary input
== Processing Power ==
=== Snapdragon XR2 ===
Standard VR-capable mobile processor:
* '''CPU''': Octa-core Kryo 585
* '''GPU''': Adreno 650
* '''AI Engine''': Fifth generation
* Same platform as Quest 2, Focus 3
=== Memory Configuration ===
* '''RAM''': 6GB
* '''Storage''': 128GB
* Adequate for standalone applications
== Software Platform ==


* '''Ultraleap technology'''
=== Android 12 ===
* Primary input method
Open platform approach:
* Controller-optional
* Android 12 base OS
* Gesture interaction
* Custom Lynx launcher
* APK sideloading capability
* OpenXR support


=== Audio ===
=== Ecosystem ===
Application availability:
* Growing native app library
* Sideloaded Android apps
* PCVR streaming capability
* OpenXR game compatibility


* '''Stereo speakers'''
=== Enterprise Software ===
* '''Dual microphones'''
Business features:
* '''3.5mm TRRS jack'''
* Enterprise deployment options
* Bluetooth headphone support
* Custom application development
* Integration with workflows


=== Design ===
== Physical Design ==


Unique features:
=== Lightweight Construction ===
Compact and comfortable:
* Estimated ~350g weight
* Balanced design
* Suitable for extended wear
* Flip-up mechanism adds versatility


* '''Open periphery'''
=== Build Quality ===
* '''Flip-up visor'''
Startup-tier construction:
* '''Rear-mounted battery'''
* Plastic housing
* Balanced weight
* Adjustable head strap
* Quest Pro-like ergonomics
* Orange accent color
* Functional design


=== Battery ===
=== Comfort Features ===
* Adjustable strap system
* Flip-up visor reduces face pressure
* Glasses-compatible
* Adequate ventilation


* '''~2-3 hours''' runtime
== Connectivity ==
* Rear-mounted pack
* Weight balance


== Software ==
=== Wireless ===
Standard connectivity:
* Wi-Fi 6 for high-bandwidth applications
* Bluetooth 5.2 for accessories


=== Platform ===
=== USB-C ===
Wired capabilities:
* Charging
* PC streaming
* Data transfer


* Android-based
== Battery Life ==
* '''OpenXR''' support
* Both VR and AR apps
* Developer-friendly


== Technical Specifications ==
=== Internal Battery ===
Standalone operation:
* 2-3 hours typical use
* Adequate for work sessions
* USB-C charging
 
== Target Applications ==
 
=== Enterprise ===
Primary market focus:
* Training and simulation
* Remote assistance
* Industrial AR
* Healthcare applications
 
=== Education ===
Learning applications:
* Medical training
* Technical education
* Interactive learning
 
=== Development ===
Developer platform:
* OpenXR support
* Android development
* Prototyping hardware
 
== Comparison with Competitors ==
 
=== vs. Meta Quest 2/3 ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Lynx R-1 !! Quest 2
|-
| Price || $1,099 (Enterprise) || $299
|-
| Resolution || 1800×1800/eye || 1832×1920/eye
|-
| Optics || Freeform prism || Fresnel
|-
| AR Mode || Full-color passthrough || Limited passthrough
|-
| Flip-up visor || Yes || No
|-
| Ecosystem || Limited || Extensive
|}
 
=== Market Position ===
Lynx occupies a niche between:
* Consumer headsets (Quest) - more expensive
* Enterprise AR (HoloLens, Magic Leap) - more affordable
* Unique AR-first standalone approach
 
== Challenges and Limitations ==
 
=== Small Company Constraints ===
* Limited production capacity
* Smaller software ecosystem
* Less marketing reach
* Uncertain long-term support
 
=== Technical Limitations ===
* No eye tracking
* Limited app availability
* Passthrough latency (~50ms)
* IPD adjustment range (60-70mm) narrower than competitors
 
== Pricing ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Edition !! Price !! Target
|-
| Lynx R-1 (Kickstarter) || ~$600 || Early backers
|-
| Lynx R-1 Enterprise || $1,099 || Business customers
|}
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 120: Line 366:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 1600x1600 LCD x2
| Display || Dual LCD, 1800 × 1800 per eye
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
| FOV || ~90°
|-
|-
| FOV || 90° (circular)
| Refresh Rate || 90Hz
|-
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2
|-
|-
| RAM || 6GB
| Memory || 6GB RAM, 128GB storage
|-
|-
| Storage || 128GB + microSD
| Tracking || 6DoF inside-out (SLAM)
|-
|-
| Cameras || 6 (tracking + hand + RGB)
| Hand Tracking || Yes (integrated)
|-
|-
| Hand Tracking || Ultraleap
| Passthrough || Full-color stereo
|-
|-
| Battery || ~2-3 hours
| Optics || Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism
|-
|-
| Price || $849
| Weight || ~350g (estimated)
|-
| Battery || 2-3 hours
|-
| Price || $1,099 (Enterprise)
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* First true standalone MR
* VR and AR combined
* Unique optics compact
* Full-color passthrough
* Ultraleap hand tracking
* Flip-up visor practical
* OpenXR support
* $849 reasonable for MR
* Independent startup innovation
'''Criticism:'''
* 1600x1600 moderate resolution
* 90° FOV narrow
* Delays hurt momentum
* Small app ecosystem
* Quest 3 competition
* Limited availability
* Startup support concerns
* Controllers sold separately<ref name="uploadvr">{{cite web |url=https://www.uploadvr.com/lynx-r1-mixed-reality-headset-finally/ |title=Lynx R1 Mixed Reality Headset |publisher=UploadVR |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Meta Quest 3]]
* [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
* [[Meta Quest Pro]]
* [[Mixed Reality]]
* [[Varjo XR-4]]
* [[Standalone VR]]
* [[Apple Vision Pro]]
* [[Passthrough AR]]
* [[Snapdragon XR2]]


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-Mounted Displays]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Standalone MR]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Lynx Mixed Reality]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality]]
[[Category:2022 in technology]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
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