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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image = [[file:pico 41.jpg|350px]]
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[head-mounted display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[Standalone VR]]
|Subtype = [[Standalone VR]]
|Platform = [[Pico Store]]
|Platform = [[PICO OS]]
|Creator =
|Developer = [[ByteDance]]
|Developer =  
|Manufacturer = [[PICO]]
|Manufacturer = [[Pico]]
|Release Date = October 2022
|Announcement Date = September 22, 2022
|Price = €429 EUR (128 GB), €499 EUR (256 GB)
|Release Date = October 18, 2022
|Website = https://www.picoxr.com/global/products/pico4
|Price = $430
|Predecessor = [[Pico Neo 3 Link]]
|Website = picoxr.com  
|Successor = [[Pico 4 Ultra]]
|Versions =
|Requires =
|Predecessor = [[Pico 3]]
|Successor = [[Pico 5]]
|Operating System = [[Pico OS 5.0 (Android)]]
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]]
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]]
|CPU = Octa-core Kryo 585 (1 x 2.84 GHz, 3 x 2.42 GHz, 4 x 1.8 GHz)
|GPU = Adreno 650
|HPU =
|Storage = 128 GB
|Memory = 8 GB LPDDR4
|Memory = 8 GB LPDDR4
|SD Card Slot = No
|Storage = 128 GB, 256 GB
|Display = 2 x LCD
|Display = 2× 2.56" Fast-LCD
|Subpixel Layout = [[RGB stripe]]
|Resolution = 2160×2160 per eye
|Peak Brightness =
|Refresh Rate = 72 Hz, 90 Hz
|Resolution = 2160x2160 per-eye
|Field of View = 105°
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|PPI = 1200 PPI
|Pixel Density =
|IPD Range = 62-72mm (seamless motorized)
|Persistence =
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Precision =
|Optics = Pancake lenses
|Field of View =  
|Tracking = Inside-out 6DoF (4 cameras)
|Horizontal FoV = 104°
|Vertical FoV =  
|Visible FoV = 104° (horizontal), 103° (vertical)
|Rendered FoV = 104° (horizontal), 104° (vertical), 122.16° (diagonal)
|Binocular Overlap = 104°
|Average Pixel Density = 20.76 PPD (horizontal), 20.76 PPD (vertical)
|Peak Pixel Density = 20.76 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = [[Pancake lenses]]
|Ocularity =  Binocular
|IPD Range = 62-72 mm
|Adjustable Diopter = No
|Passthrough = 16MP RGB camera
|Tracking = 6 DoF Inside-out
|Tracking Frequency =
|Base Stations = No
|Eye Tracking = No
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Body Tracking = No
|Passthrough = Color
|Rotational Tracking =
|Controllers = PICO 4 controllers
|Positional Tracking =
|Audio = 360° stereo speakers, 3D spatial audio
|Update Rate =
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C
|Tracking Volume =
|Battery = 5300 mAh
|Play Space =
|Weight = ~295g (headset), ~586g (total with strap)
|Latency =  
|Audio = Integrated stereo speakers
|Microphone = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = No
|Camera =
|Connectivity =  
|Ports = USB Type-C
|Wired Video = USB Type-C
|Wireless Video = WiFi streaming
|WiFi = WiFi 6 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
|Bluetooth = Bluetooth 5.1
|Power =
|Battery Capacity = 5300 mAh
|Battery Life = 3 hours
|Charge Time =
|Dimensions =
|Weight = 295g (without headstrap), 586g (with headstrap)
|Material = Plastic, foam facial interface
|Headstrap = Hard padded retractable strap
|Haptics = No
|Color = White / grey
|Sensors =
|Input = 2 x Pico 4 Controller 
|Compliance =
|Size =
|Cable Length =
}}
}}


The [[Pico 4]] is a [[virtual reality headset]] developed by [[Pico Interactive]], a company under [[ByteDance]], the creator of [[TikTok]]. It positions itself as a direct competitor to the [[Meta Quest 2]], offering a range of features and specifications aimed at enhancing the virtual reality experience. The headset has garnered attention for its innovative design, visual capabilities, and unique features, as well as for certain limitations and concerns.
The '''PICO 4''' is a standalone [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[PICO]] (a [[ByteDance]] subsidiary), released in October 2022 as a direct competitor to the [[Meta Quest 2]]. The Pico 4 introduced pancake lens technology to the consumer standalone VR market, enabling a significantly lighter and thinner form factor with a 26% weight reduction and 39% thickness reduction compared to previous designs. Featuring dual 2160×2160 Fast-LCD displays with 105° field of view, motorized IPD adjustment, and balanced weight distribution, the Pico 4 was praised as "The Beginning Of A New Era In Consumer VR."


== Overview ==
== History and Development ==
The Pico 4 VR headset distinguishes itself with a slimmer and lighter visor compared to many of its contemporaries. This design choice not only impacts the aesthetic appeal of the device but also contributes significantly to user comfort during extended use. The device features a [[Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 chipset]], which, while common in similar devices, presents certain performance limitations.


== Design and Comfort ==
PICO, acquired by ByteDance in 2021, released the Pico 4 in October 2022 targeting global markets (excluding the United States). The headset marked the first time pancake optics were available in a consumer-priced standalone VR headset, eliminating the god rays associated with Fresnel lenses while achieving a more compact form factor.<ref name="mrtv">{{cite web |url=https://mrtv.co/2022/10/pico-4-review-the-beginning-of-a-new-era-in-consumer-vr/ |title=Pico 4 Review - The Beginning Of A New Era In Consumer VR |publisher=MRTV |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Physical Build ===
The Pico 4's design is notable for its lightweight and compact form. The visor, weighing approximately 295 grams without straps, offers a significant reduction in weight compared to similar models. The device's rigid strap, which is non-removable, integrates the battery into the rear, aiding in weight balance and overall comfort. However, this design choice limits customization options for users who might prefer third-party alternatives.


=== Facial Interface ===
The Pico 4 was succeeded by the [[Pico 4 Ultra]] in 2024 with upgraded Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor and mixed reality capabilities.<ref name="wikipedia">{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PICO_4 |title=PICO 4 |publisher=Wikipedia |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
Pico 4's facial interface utilizes a breathable fabric, akin to the material used in the [[Oculus Go]], providing a gentler and more comfortable experience compared to the foam interfaces commonly found in other VR headsets.


== Visual and Display Capabilities ==
== Design and Hardware ==
=== Field of View and Lenses ===
One of the Pico 4's standout features is its field of view, which is both wider and taller than many of its competitors, including the [[Quest 2]]. This expanded field of view, attributed to the device's larger lens size, significantly enhances the immersive experience in VR. The headset utilizes [[pancake lenses]], which are noted for their sharpness in both the center and periphery. However, these lenses have been reported to cause discomfort for users with narrower interpupillary distances (IPDs), potentially crushing against the nose when adjusted below 62mm.


=== Resolution and Color Representation ===
=== Display ===
While the Pico 4 boasts a higher resolution than some of its competitors, this increase is not always noticeably perceptible in practice. The device's color representation has drawn criticism for appearing washed out and darker, a possible side effect of the [[pancake lenses]].


== Performance and Tracking ==
High-resolution Fast-LCD displays:
The use of the [[Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 chipset]] in the Pico 4, while common, has led to performance issues, particularly when rendering more complex visuals. This has resulted in frame drops in some VR applications, which can be discomforting to users. The device's tracking capabilities, however, have been generally well-received, with precise controller tracking noted in fast-paced VR games.


== User Interface and Setup ==
* Dual 2.56-inch Fast-LCD panels
The Pico 4's system software bears a resemblance to that of the [[Quest]]'s interface, with a familiar layout for users who have experience with [[Meta]]'s VR systems. The UI is described as snappy and responsive, although it lacks some of the polished touches, such as haptic feedback on the virtual keyboard, found in other systems. Setting up the device requires inputting details via tracked controllers, a process that some users might find cumbersome.
* '''2160×2160 resolution per eye''' (higher than Quest 2)
* 1200 PPI pixel density
* 72 Hz and 90 Hz refresh rates
* '''105° field of view''' (wider than Quest 2)
* Excellent clarity and reduced screen door effect


== Passthrough and Mixed Reality Features ==
=== Optics ===
The Pico 4 offers a full-color passthrough, a step up from the black and white passthrough seen in some other VR headsets. However, the lack of depth correctness in the passthrough view can lead to distortion and discomfort during movement, limiting its effectiveness for mixed reality applications.


== Software and Content ==
Revolutionary pancake lens technology:
The [[Pico Store]], while growing, currently offers a smaller selection of native VR applications compared to stores like the [[Quest Store]]. However, the Pico 4 supports wireless and wired [[SteamVR]] streaming, allowing access to a broader range of PC VR content. The device's content library is expanding, with several popular titles already available and more expected to be added post-launch.


==Images==
* '''Pancake lenses:''' First in consumer standalone VR
<gallery mode="packed">
* Folded optical path
File:pico 48.jpg
* No Fresnel god rays
File:pico 49.png
* No digital distortion correction needed
File:pico 47.gif
* Displays positioned closer to lenses
File:pico 46.png
* Lighter and thinner design
File:pico 45.png
 
File:pico 44.png
=== Form Factor ===
File:pico 43png.png
 
File:pico 41.jpg
Dramatically improved ergonomics:
File:pico 42.jpg
 
</gallery>
* ~295g headset weight (without strap)
* '''26% lighter''' than Fresnel designs
* '''39% thinner''' profile
* Balanced weight distribution (battery in rear)
* Center of gravity fits snugly against face
* Cushioned rear support
* "Superbly comfortable fit"
 
=== Processing ===
 
* [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] processor
* 8 GB LPDDR4 RAM
* 128 GB or 256 GB storage
 
=== IPD Adjustment ===
 
Motorized adjustment:
 
* '''Seamless motorized IPD''' (62-72mm range)
* Software-controlled adjustment
* Warning when lenses approach nose
* Precise positioning
 
=== Battery ===
 
* 5300 mAh capacity
* Rear-mounted for balance
* ~2-3 hours usage
 
=== Audio ===
 
* 360° stereo speakers
* 3D spatial audio
* Sound positioning based on head movement
* Precise, realistic audio effects
 
== Tracking ==
 
Inside-out tracking system:
 
* 4 cameras for 6DoF tracking
* Room-scale without base stations
* Hand tracking support
* Color passthrough
 
== Controllers ==
 
PICO 4 controllers:
 
* 6DoF tracking
* Ergonomic design
* Battery-powered
 
== Comparison with Quest 2 ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Pico 4 !! Quest 2
|-
| Resolution || '''2160×2160/eye''' || 1832×1920/eye
|-
| Optics || '''Pancake''' || Fresnel
|-
| Field of View || '''105°''' || 97°
|-
| IPD || '''Motorized (62-72mm)''' || 3 presets
|-
| Headset Weight || '''~295g''' || ~503g
|-
| God Rays || '''None''' || Present
|-
| Availability || EU, Asia, etc. || Global (incl. US)
|}
 
== Reception ==
 
'''Praise:'''
* "The Beginning Of A New Era In Consumer VR" - MRTV
* Pancake lenses eliminate god rays
* Higher resolution than Quest 2
* Wider 105° field of view
* Dramatically lighter design
* Motorized IPD adjustment
* Balanced weight distribution
* Comfortable for extended use
* 3D spatial audio
* Excellent value proposition
 
'''Criticism:'''
* Not available in United States
* 90 Hz maximum (no 120 Hz)
* LPDDR4 RAM (not LPDDR5)
* Smaller game library than Quest
* No eye tracking (available on Pro/Enterprise)
* LCD displays (not OLED)
* Requires ByteDance account<ref name="pcgamer">{{cite web |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/pico-4-ve-headset-review/ |title=Pico 4 VR headset review |publisher=PC Gamer |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
 
<ref name="ludusglobal">{{cite web |url=https://www.ludusglobal.com/en/blog/pico-4-features-price-specifications-vr-headset |title=Pico 4: features, price and specifications of the new VR headset |publisher=Ludus Global |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
 
== See Also ==
* [[Pico 4 Pro]]
* [[Pico 4 Enterprise]]
* [[Pico 4 Ultra]]
* [[Meta Quest 2]]
* [[Meta Quest 3]]
 
== References ==
{{reflist}}
 
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Standalone VR Headsets]]
[[Category:PICO]]
[[Category:2022 in technology]]

Revision as of 15:36, 7 January 2026

Pico 4
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype Standalone VR
Platform PICO OS
Developer ByteDance
Manufacturer PICO
Release Date October 2022
Price €429 EUR (128 GB), €499 EUR (256 GB)
Website https://www.picoxr.com/global/products/pico4
Predecessor Pico Neo 3 Link
Successor Pico 4 Ultra
System
Chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2
Storage
Storage 128 GB, 256 GB
Memory 8 GB LPDDR4
Display
Display 2× 2.56" Fast-LCD
Resolution 2160×2160 per eye
Refresh Rate 72 Hz, 90 Hz
Image
Field of View 105°
Optics
Optics Pancake lenses
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range 62-72mm (seamless motorized)
Passthrough Color
Tracking
Tracking Inside-out 6DoF (4 cameras)
Eye Tracking No
Hand Tracking Yes
Audio
Audio 360° stereo speakers, 3D spatial audio
Connectivity
Connectivity Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C
Device
Weight ~295g (headset), ~586g (total with strap)


The PICO 4 is a standalone virtual reality head-mounted display developed by PICO (a ByteDance subsidiary), released in October 2022 as a direct competitor to the Meta Quest 2. The Pico 4 introduced pancake lens technology to the consumer standalone VR market, enabling a significantly lighter and thinner form factor with a 26% weight reduction and 39% thickness reduction compared to previous designs. Featuring dual 2160×2160 Fast-LCD displays with 105° field of view, motorized IPD adjustment, and balanced weight distribution, the Pico 4 was praised as "The Beginning Of A New Era In Consumer VR."

History and Development

PICO, acquired by ByteDance in 2021, released the Pico 4 in October 2022 targeting global markets (excluding the United States). The headset marked the first time pancake optics were available in a consumer-priced standalone VR headset, eliminating the god rays associated with Fresnel lenses while achieving a more compact form factor.[1]

The Pico 4 was succeeded by the Pico 4 Ultra in 2024 with upgraded Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor and mixed reality capabilities.[2]

Design and Hardware

Display

High-resolution Fast-LCD displays:

  • Dual 2.56-inch Fast-LCD panels
  • 2160×2160 resolution per eye (higher than Quest 2)
  • 1200 PPI pixel density
  • 72 Hz and 90 Hz refresh rates
  • 105° field of view (wider than Quest 2)
  • Excellent clarity and reduced screen door effect

Optics

Revolutionary pancake lens technology:

  • Pancake lenses: First in consumer standalone VR
  • Folded optical path
  • No Fresnel god rays
  • No digital distortion correction needed
  • Displays positioned closer to lenses
  • Lighter and thinner design

Form Factor

Dramatically improved ergonomics:

  • ~295g headset weight (without strap)
  • 26% lighter than Fresnel designs
  • 39% thinner profile
  • Balanced weight distribution (battery in rear)
  • Center of gravity fits snugly against face
  • Cushioned rear support
  • "Superbly comfortable fit"

Processing

IPD Adjustment

Motorized adjustment:

  • Seamless motorized IPD (62-72mm range)
  • Software-controlled adjustment
  • Warning when lenses approach nose
  • Precise positioning

Battery

  • 5300 mAh capacity
  • Rear-mounted for balance
  • ~2-3 hours usage

Audio

  • 360° stereo speakers
  • 3D spatial audio
  • Sound positioning based on head movement
  • Precise, realistic audio effects

Tracking

Inside-out tracking system:

  • 4 cameras for 6DoF tracking
  • Room-scale without base stations
  • Hand tracking support
  • Color passthrough

Controllers

PICO 4 controllers:

  • 6DoF tracking
  • Ergonomic design
  • Battery-powered

Comparison with Quest 2

Feature Pico 4 Quest 2
Resolution 2160×2160/eye 1832×1920/eye
Optics Pancake Fresnel
Field of View 105° 97°
IPD Motorized (62-72mm) 3 presets
Headset Weight ~295g ~503g
God Rays None Present
Availability EU, Asia, etc. Global (incl. US)

Reception

Praise:

  • "The Beginning Of A New Era In Consumer VR" - MRTV
  • Pancake lenses eliminate god rays
  • Higher resolution than Quest 2
  • Wider 105° field of view
  • Dramatically lighter design
  • Motorized IPD adjustment
  • Balanced weight distribution
  • Comfortable for extended use
  • 3D spatial audio
  • Excellent value proposition

Criticism:

  • Not available in United States
  • 90 Hz maximum (no 120 Hz)
  • LPDDR4 RAM (not LPDDR5)
  • Smaller game library than Quest
  • No eye tracking (available on Pro/Enterprise)
  • LCD displays (not OLED)
  • Requires ByteDance account[3]

[4]

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "Pico 4 Review - The Beginning Of A New Era In Consumer VR". MRTV. https://mrtv.co/2022/10/pico-4-review-the-beginning-of-a-new-era-in-consumer-vr/.
  2. ↑ "PICO 4". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PICO_4.
  3. ↑ "Pico 4 VR headset review". PC Gamer. https://www.pcgamer.com/pico-4-ve-headset-review/.
  4. ↑ "Pico 4: features, price and specifications of the new VR headset". Ludus Global. https://www.ludusglobal.com/en/blog/pico-4-features-price-specifications-vr-headset.
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