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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image =
|image=[[File:Lenovoexplorer.jpg|350px]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR= [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-Mounted Display]]
|Type= [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Subtype= [[PC-Powered VR]]
|Platform = [[Windows Mixed Reality]], [[SteamVR]]
|Platform=[[Microsoft Windows Mixed Reality (Platform)]]
|Developer = [[Lenovo]]
|Developer= [[Lenovo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Lenovo]]
|Operating System= [[Windows 10]]
|Release Date = 2017
|Requires= [[PC]]
|Price = $350 (headset) / $399 (with controllers)
|Display= Dual LCD display
|Website = https://www.lenovo.com/
|Resolution= 2880 x 1440 (1440 x 1440 per eye)
|Display = LCD (dual)
|Refresh Rate= 90Hz
|Resolution = 1440x1440 per eye
|Field of View= 110 Degree
|Combined Resolution = 2880x1440
|Optics= [[Fresnel lenses]]
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Tracking= 6DOF
|Field of View = 110°
|Rotational Tracking= [[Gyroscope]], [[Accelerometer]], [[Magnetometer]]
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Positional Tracking= Inside-out tracking
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out, 2 cameras)
|Tracking Volume= 3.5m x 3.5m
|Audio = 3.5mm jack
|Latency= Low
|Connectivity = HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0, Bluetooth 4.0
|Input= [[Keyboard/Mouse]],[[Xbox One GamePad]], [[Lenovo Explorer Motion Controller]]
|Weight = 380g (13.4 oz)
|Connectivity= HDMI, USB
|Weight= 380 g
|Size= Width :
185.1 mm x 94.8 mm x 102.1 mm
|Cable Length= 4 m
|Release Date= October 2017
|Price= $399 with Motion Controller
|Website= https://www3.lenovo.com/gb/en/smart-devices/virtual-reality/lenovo-explorer/Lenovo-Explorer/p/G10NREAG0A2
}}
}}


The '''Lenovo Explorer''' is a PC [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Lenovo]], released in 2017 at $350-$399. One of the first [[Windows Mixed Reality]] headsets, the Explorer features dual 1440x1440 LCD displays (higher resolution than Oculus Rift and HTC Vive), 110° field of view, 90 Hz refresh rate, inside-out 6DoF tracking requiring no external sensors, lightweight 380g design, and room-scale support up to 11.5 x 11.5 feet. An affordable entry point to PC VR with easy plug-and-play setup.
In a bid to deliver immersive virtual reality experience without complicated setup, various vendors have been developing [[Windows Mixed Reality]] compliant headsets. Lenovo Explorer is one of the latest devices to join the fray after being revealed at IFA 2017. Developed by computing giant Lenovo, this virtual reality headset is released for purchase in October 2017 and is priced at $399 for a set of Lenovo explorer headset and a couple of motion controllers.


== History and Development ==
== The Lenovo Explorer Headset ==


Lenovo launched the Explorer in 2017 as part of Microsoft's Windows Mixed Reality initiative, alongside headsets from HP, Acer, Dell, and Samsung. The Explorer targeted mainstream consumers with competitive pricing and easy setup compared to the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive which required external sensors. Full SteamVR compatibility expanded the content library beyond Microsoft's platform.<ref name="tomshardware">{{cite web |url=https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/lenovo-explorer-windows-mixed-reality-vr,5468.html |title=Lenovo Explorer Review |publisher=Tom's Hardware |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
Built with plastic material and spotting dark grey on black, the Lenovo Explorer only weight 380g making it comfortably light. The headset is worn against the forehead where a strap is fastened just above the top of the neck. At a glance, it bears similarity to [[Oculus Rift]] and [[HTC Vive]]. But what differentiates the Lenovo Explorer headset from its competitor is the ability to flip the visor up, giving the user instant access to the physical world. The headset requires only a USB3.0 and HDMI connection to the PC to function.


== Design and Hardware ==
The uniqueness of the Lenovo Explorer is the two front-facing camera built into the headset. This is vital in scanning and relaying the wearer’s location for Microsoft’s beaconless tracking technology similar to those used for [[Hololens]]. The headset’s visual came from a couple of 2.9 Inches display with a resolution of 1440 x1440. With a native refresh rate of 90Hz, the headset provides the user with a smooth immersive visual experience. The headset allows user 110 fields of view and is packed with various sensors.


=== Display ===
== The Lenovo Explorer Motion Controller ==


Higher resolution than competitors:
There are various choices of navigation that works with the Lenovo Explorer. Users can use keyboard and mouse or an [[XBox gamepad]]. But for a total virtual reality experience, the Lenovo Explorer came with its own 6 DoF motion controller. Built with Microsoft’s Mixed Reality guideline, the motion controller features a direction pad, analog stick, Windows key, menu button, rear trigger and a bumper style button on the inside of each. The motion controller is powered by non-rechargeable AA batteries and connects to the PC via Bluetooth.


* '''1440x1440 per eye''' resolution
* '''2880x1440 combined'''
* '''Dual 2.89-inch LCD''' panels
* '''90 Hz refresh rate'''
* '''110° field of view'''
* Higher than Rift/Vive (1080x1200)
* Reduced screen-door effect
* Good text readability


=== Tracking ===
== Apps For The Lenovo Explorer ==


Simple inside-out system:
While the Lenovo Explorer doesn’t require any special software to work, it does require the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update. WIth the Explorer headset, you’ll be able to access the Windows Mixed Reality home. This is where users get access to system information and launch apps, except it’s in a virtual environment.


* '''6DoF tracking'''
Besides applications like Words and Skype for Windows Mixed Reality, the first batch of games built for the platform has hit the Store. Titles like Arizona Sunshine, Halo Recruit, and Superhot VR are some of the top VR games made available for the platform. There are also free apps like Littlstar and Silver.TV available for download.
* '''Inside-out tracking'''
* '''2 front-facing cameras'''
* '''No external sensors'''
* Quick setup
* Plug and play
 
=== Room Scale ===
 
* Up to '''11.5 x 11.5 feet''' (3.5m x 3.5m)
* No external sensors needed
* Boundary system
* Standing and seated support
 
=== Controllers ===
 
WMR motion controllers:
 
* '''6DoF tracking'''
* '''Bluetooth 4.0''' connected
* Automatically tracked by headset
* Lightweight design
* Thumbstick and touchpad
* Trigger and grip buttons
 
=== Build ===
 
Lightweight design:
 
* '''380g weight''' (13.4 oz)
* Iron Gray color
* Comfortable for extended use
* Flip-up visor design
 
=== Cable ===
 
* '''Built-in 13.1' Y-cable'''
* '''USB 3.0''' connector
* '''HDMI 2.0''' connector
* Single cable management
 
=== Audio ===
 
* '''3.5mm headphone jack'''
* External headphones required
* No integrated speakers
 
=== Connectivity ===
 
* '''HDMI 2.0'''
* '''USB 3.0'''
* '''Bluetooth 4.0'''
 
== PC Requirements ==
 
=== Minimum ===
* '''CPU''': Intel Core i5 / AMD equivalent
* '''GPU''': NVIDIA GTX 960 / AMD RX 460
* '''RAM''': 8 GB
* '''OS''': Windows 10 Fall Creators Update


== Technical Specifications ==
== Technical Specifications ==
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Specification !! Details
| Display||
1440 x 1440 per eye LCD
 
|-
|-
| Display || 1440x1440 LCD x2
| Refresh rate || 90Hz
|-
|-
| Combined || 2880x1440
| Field of view || 110 degrees
 
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
| Optics|| Fresnel lens
 
|-
|-
| FOV || 110°
| Sensor|| 6DoF motion tracking
Accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, and proximity sensor.
 
Inside-out sensor (B+W VGA x2)
|-
|-
| Tracking || Inside-out (2 cameras)
| Connectivity|| USB 3.0, HDMI
|-
|-
| Room Scale || 11.5 x 11.5 ft
| Audio|| 3.5mm headset jack
 
|-
|-
| Weight || 380g
| Cable length || 4m
|-
|-
| Interface || HDMI 2.0 + USB 3.0
| Weight|| 380g
|-
| Price || $350-$399
|}
|}


== Reception ==
== Developer ==
Game and app developers who are keen on leveraging Microsoft Mixed Reality platform can find more resources at Windows Dev Center


'''Praise:'''
https://developer.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/mixed-reality
* $350-$399 affordable entry
* 1440x1440 higher than Rift/Vive
* Easy plug-and-play setup
* No external sensors needed
* 380g lightweight
* SteamVR compatible
* Room-scale without sensors
* 110° FOV standard
* Good beginner headset
* Quick installation


'''Criticism:'''
== History ==
* LCD vs OLED contrast/blacks
* Sept, 2017 - Revealed IFA 2017
* 2-camera tracking limited
* Oct,2017 - Lenovo Explorer Released
* Controller tracking blind spots
* No integrated audio
* WMR controller design
* Front-only tracking volume
* 90Hz only
* Platform fragmentation
* Limited exclusive content<ref name="pcgamer">{{cite web |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/lenovo-explorer-mixed-reality-headset-review/ |title=Lenovo Explorer Review |publisher=PC Gamer |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
* [[HP Reverb]]
* [[Samsung Odyssey+]]
* [[Dell Visor]]
* [[Acer Windows Mixed Reality]]


== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
* http://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/lenovo-explorer
 
* https://www.theverge.com/2017/8/31/16219544/lenovo-explorer-windows-mixed-reality-vr-headset
[[Category:Devices]]
* http://www.techradar.com/reviews/lenovo-explorer
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
* https://www.engadget.com/2017/08/31/lenovo-explorer-windows-mixed-reality-headset/
[[Category:Head-Mounted Displays]]
* https://www.slashgear.com/lenovo-explorer-windows-mixed-reality-headset-hands-on-31497061/
[[Category:PC VR]]
* https://www3.lenovo.com/us/en/lenovo-explorer/
[[Category:Windows Mixed Reality]]
* https://www.windowscentral.com/lenovo-explorer-review
[[Category:Lenovo]]
* https://www.windowscentral.com/first-batch-windows-mixed-reality-apps-and-games-hits-store
[[Category:2017 in technology]]

Revision as of 18:14, 7 January 2026

Lenovo Explorer
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype PC-Powered VR
Platform Microsoft Windows Mixed Reality (Platform)
Developer Lenovo
Release Date October 2017
Price $399 with Motion Controller
Website https://www3.lenovo.com/gb/en/smart-devices/virtual-reality/lenovo-explorer/Lenovo-Explorer/p/G10NREAG0A2
Requires PC
System
Operating System Windows 10
Storage
Display
Display Dual LCD display
Resolution 2880 x 1440 (1440 x 1440 per eye)
Refresh Rate 90Hz
Image
Field of View 110 Degree
Optics
Optics Fresnel lenses
Tracking
Tracking 6DOF
Rotational Tracking Gyroscope, Accelerometer, Magnetometer
Positional Tracking Inside-out tracking
Tracking Volume 3.5m x 3.5m
Latency Low
Audio
Connectivity
Connectivity HDMI, USB
Device
Weight 380 g
Input Keyboard/Mouse,Xbox One GamePad, Lenovo Explorer Motion Controller
Size Width :

185.1 mm x 94.8 mm x 102.1 mm

Cable Length 4 m

Property "Size" (as page type) with input value "Width : </br>185.1 mm x 94.8 mm x 102.1 mm" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process.


In a bid to deliver immersive virtual reality experience without complicated setup, various vendors have been developing Windows Mixed Reality compliant headsets. Lenovo Explorer is one of the latest devices to join the fray after being revealed at IFA 2017. Developed by computing giant Lenovo, this virtual reality headset is released for purchase in October 2017 and is priced at $399 for a set of Lenovo explorer headset and a couple of motion controllers.

The Lenovo Explorer Headset

Built with plastic material and spotting dark grey on black, the Lenovo Explorer only weight 380g making it comfortably light. The headset is worn against the forehead where a strap is fastened just above the top of the neck. At a glance, it bears similarity to Oculus Rift and HTC Vive. But what differentiates the Lenovo Explorer headset from its competitor is the ability to flip the visor up, giving the user instant access to the physical world. The headset requires only a USB3.0 and HDMI connection to the PC to function.

The uniqueness of the Lenovo Explorer is the two front-facing camera built into the headset. This is vital in scanning and relaying the wearer’s location for Microsoft’s beaconless tracking technology similar to those used for Hololens. The headset’s visual came from a couple of 2.9 Inches display with a resolution of 1440 x1440. With a native refresh rate of 90Hz, the headset provides the user with a smooth immersive visual experience. The headset allows user 110 fields of view and is packed with various sensors.

The Lenovo Explorer Motion Controller

There are various choices of navigation that works with the Lenovo Explorer. Users can use keyboard and mouse or an XBox gamepad. But for a total virtual reality experience, the Lenovo Explorer came with its own 6 DoF motion controller. Built with Microsoft’s Mixed Reality guideline, the motion controller features a direction pad, analog stick, Windows key, menu button, rear trigger and a bumper style button on the inside of each. The motion controller is powered by non-rechargeable AA batteries and connects to the PC via Bluetooth.


Apps For The Lenovo Explorer

While the Lenovo Explorer doesn’t require any special software to work, it does require the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update. WIth the Explorer headset, you’ll be able to access the Windows Mixed Reality home. This is where users get access to system information and launch apps, except it’s in a virtual environment.

Besides applications like Words and Skype for Windows Mixed Reality, the first batch of games built for the platform has hit the Store. Titles like Arizona Sunshine, Halo Recruit, and Superhot VR are some of the top VR games made available for the platform. There are also free apps like Littlstar and Silver.TV available for download.

Technical Specifications

Display

1440 x 1440 per eye LCD

Refresh rate 90Hz
Field of view 110 degrees
Optics Fresnel lens
Sensor 6DoF motion tracking

Accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, and proximity sensor.

Inside-out sensor (B+W VGA x2)

Connectivity USB 3.0, HDMI
Audio 3.5mm headset jack
Cable length 4m
Weight 380g

Developer

Game and app developers who are keen on leveraging Microsoft Mixed Reality platform can find more resources at Windows Dev Center

https://developer.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/mixed-reality

History

  • Sept, 2017 - Revealed IFA 2017
  • Oct,2017 - Lenovo Explorer Released


References

Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/index.php?title=Lenovo_Explorer&oldid=37181"