Jump to content

Varjo XR-3: Difference between revisions

From VR & AR Wiki
← Older editNewer edit →
VisualWikitext
Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
Tag: Reverted
Undo revision 37068 by Betabot (talk)
Tag: Undo
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image =
|image = [[File:Varjo xr-31.png|350px]]
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]], [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[Enterprise VR]], [[PC VR]]
|Subtype = [[PC-Powered VR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Varjo Base]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[OpenXR]]
|Creator =
|Developer = [[Varjo]]
|Developer = [[Varjo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Varjo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Varjo]]
|Release Date = December 1, 2020
|Announcement Date = December 1, 2020
|Price = $5,495 USD
|Release Date = December 2020
|Website = https://varjo.com/products/varjo-xr-3
|Price = $5,495 + $1,495/year subscription
|Predecessor = [[Varjo XR-1]]
|Website = https://varjo.com
|Versions = XR-3, XR-3 Focal Edition
|Requires = High-end PC
|Predecessor = [[Varjo XR-1 (Developer Edition)]]
|Successor = [[Varjo XR-4]]
|Successor = [[Varjo XR-4]]
|Display = Bionic Display (uOLED + LCD hybrid)
|Operating System = Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
|Resolution = Focus: 1920x1920 per eye (uOLED), Peripheral: 2880x2720 per eye (LCD)
|Chipset =
|PPD = 70 PPD (focus), 30+ PPD (peripheral)
|CPU =
|GPU =
|HPU =
|Storage =
|Memory =
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = uOLED (focus) + LCD (peripheral)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB
|Peak Brightness = 150 nits
|Resolution = Focus: 1920×1920 per eye, Context: 2880×2720 per eye
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Pixel Density = 70+ PPD (focus), 30+ PPD (periphery)
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Precision = Sub-pixel precision
|Field of View = 115°
|Field of View = 115°
|IPD Range = 59-71mm (automatic)
|Horizontal FoV = 115°
|Vertical FoV = N/A
|Visible FoV = 115°
|Rendered FoV = 115°
|Binocular Overlap = less than 85%
|Average Pixel Density = N/A
|Peak Pixel Density = 70+ PPD
|Foveated Rendering = Yes (dynamic)
|Optics = Aspheric lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Optics = Non-Fresnel (crystal clear)
|IPD Range = 58-73mm (automatic adjustment)
|Tracking = 6DoF (SteamVR Lighthouse)
|Adjustable Diopter = No
|Eye Tracking = Yes (200 Hz, <1° accuracy)
|Passthrough = Yes (12MP RGB cameras + LiDAR)
|Tracking = SteamVR 2.0, Inside-out (beta)
|Tracking Frequency = 1000 Hz
|Base Stations = Optional
|Eye Tracking = Yes (200Hz)
|Face Tracking =
|Hand Tracking = Yes (Ultraleap Gemini)
|Hand Tracking = Yes (Ultraleap Gemini)
|Passthrough = 12MP stereo RGB (photorealistic)
|Body Tracking =  
|LiDAR = Yes (depth sensing)
|Rotational Tracking = 6DOF
|Controllers = SteamVR compatible
|Positional Tracking = 6DOF
|Audio = 3.5mm jack
|Update Rate = 1000 Hz
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0
|Tracking Volume = Up to 10m × 10m
|Weight = 594g (headset), 386g (headband)
|Play Space = Room-scale
|Latency = less than 20ms (VR), less than 20ms (passthrough)
|Audio = Off-ear speakers (37mm drivers)
|Microphone = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = 2× 12MP RGB, 2× LiDAR depth sensors
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C 3.0
|Ports = 1× DisplayPort 1.4, 1× USB-C 3.0
|Wired Video = DisplayPort 1.4
|Wireless Video =
|WiFi =
|Bluetooth =
|Power = External power adapter
|Battery Capacity =
|Battery Life =
|Charge Time =
|Dimensions =
|Weight = 594g (headset only)
|Material = Magnesium alloy, plastic
|Headstrap = 3-point precision fit headband
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black
|Sensors = 200Hz eye tracking, IMU, depth sensors
|Input = Compatible with SteamVR controllers
|Compliance = CE, FCC, TAA-compliant option
|Size =
|Cable Length = 5 meters
}}
}}
The [[Varjo XR-3]] is a professional [[PC-Powered VR|PC-powered]] [[mixed reality]] and [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]]<ref name="varjo-xr3-product" /> announced on December 1, 2020,<ref name="auganix" /><ref name="symetri" /> by [[Varjo|Varjo Technologies]]. Building on the [[Varjo VR-3]] platform, the XR-3 adds advanced video passthrough capabilities with 12-megapixel cameras and [[LiDAR]] depth sensing, enabling seamless transitions between virtual and augmented reality.<ref name="varjo-announcement" />


The '''Varjo XR-3''' is a professional [[mixed reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Varjo]], released on December 1, 2020 at $5,495. The successor to the XR-1, the XR-3 features Varjo's signature Bionic Display technology with human-eye resolution at 70 pixels per degree (PPD) in the focus area, 115° field of view (widest in industry at launch), integrated 200 Hz eye tracking with sub-1° accuracy, photorealistic 12-megapixel video passthrough, built-in LiDAR for depth sensing, and Ultraleap Gemini hand tracking. The XR-3 established the standard for enterprise mixed reality with true-to-life visual fidelity.
==History==
The XR-3 succeeded Varjo's experimental XR-1 developer kit, representing the company's first production mixed reality headset. Development focused on achieving photorealistic passthrough quality with accurate depth perception, targeting industries requiring seamless AR/VR switching such as automotive design, medical training, and aerospace simulation.<ref name="roadtovr" />


== History and Development ==
Key innovations included:
* Industry's first VR headset with integrated LiDAR
* Highest resolution passthrough cameras in mixed reality
* Real-time depth-based occlusion
* Seamless VR/AR switching capability


Varjo launched the XR-3 alongside the VR-3 on December 1, 2020, continuing their focus on professional and enterprise applications requiring the highest visual fidelity. The XR-3 represented a significant price reduction from the XR-1/XR-2 (which cost over $10,000) while improving performance, making high-end mixed reality more accessible to businesses. The XR-3 was succeeded by the [[Varjo XR-4]] in late 2023.<ref name="varjo">{{cite web |url=https://varjo.com/news/varjo-launches-xr-3-and-vr-3-headsets-to-bring-the-next-generation-of-immersive-technology-to-every-workplace |title=Varjo Launches XR-3 and VR-3 |publisher=Varjo |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
==Technical Specifications==


== Design and Hardware ==
===Mixed Reality System===
The XR-3's passthrough system represents a significant advancement:
* '''RGB Cameras''': Dual 12-megapixel sensors
* '''Frame Rate''': 90 fps video passthrough
* '''Latency''': Sub-20ms glass-to-glass
* '''Field of View''': Matches 115° display FOV
* '''Color Accuracy''': 94% sRGB in passthrough mode


=== Bionic Display ===
===LiDAR Depth Sensing===
First-of-its-kind integration in VR/AR:
* '''Technology''': Time-of-flight LiDAR sensors
* '''Range''': 0.5m to 5m depth sensing
* '''Resolution''': 640×480 depth map
* '''Frame Rate''': 30 fps depth updates
* '''Accuracy''': ±5mm at 1m distance


Dual-panel human-eye resolution system:
===Display Technology===
Identical to VR-3 base specifications:
* '''Focus Display''': 1920×1920 micro-OLED per eye
* '''Context Display''': 2880×2720 LCD per eye
* '''Virtual Resolution''': 70+ PPD center, 30+ PPD periphery
* '''Refresh Rate''': 90 Hz


==== Focus Area ====
==Mixed Reality Features==
* '''Micro-OLED (uOLED)''' displays
* '''1920x1920 resolution per eye'''
* '''70 PPD''' (pixels per degree)—human-eye resolution
* '''27° x 27°''' focus region
* Follows gaze via eye tracking


==== Peripheral Area ====
===Video Passthrough Quality===
* '''LCD''' displays
The XR-3 achieved unprecedented passthrough fidelity:
* '''2880x2720 resolution per eye'''
* '''Chroma Keying''': Real-time green screen removal
* '''30+ PPD''' peripheral clarity
* '''Exposure Control''': Automatic HDR adjustment
* Full 115° coverage
* '''White Balance''': Scene-adaptive color correction
* '''Distortion Correction''': Minimal warping artifacts


=== Color Accuracy ===
===Depth-Based Occlusion===
LiDAR enables realistic object interaction:
* '''Pixel-Perfect Occlusion''': Virtual objects behind real objects
* '''Hand Occlusion''': Natural hand-over-virtual interactions
* '''Dynamic Meshing''': Real-time 3D environment reconstruction
* '''Collision Detection''': Physics-based AR interactions


* '''99% sRGB''' coverage
===XR-3 Focal Edition===
* '''93% DCI-P3''' coverage
Special variant with experimental features:<ref name="varjo-focal" />
* Widest color gamut in VR
* '''Varifocal Cameras''': Motorized focus adjustment
* Professional color accuracy
* '''Gaze-Directed Focus''': Camera focus follows eye gaze
* '''Extended Depth Range''': 20cm to infinity focus
* '''Research Applications''': Vergence-accommodation studies


=== Field of View ===
==Software Capabilities==


* '''115° FOV'''—widest in industry at launch
===Varjo Reality Cloud XR===
* Significant upgrade from 87° (earlier Varjo models)
Cloud-based mixed reality platform:
* Near-peripheral vision coverage
* '''Remote Rendering''': Stream XR content from servers
* '''Multi-User Sessions''': Collaborative AR experiences
* '''Persistent AR''': Save and share AR annotations
* '''Cross-Platform''': Works with other Varjo headsets


=== Optics ===
===Development Tools===
* '''XR SDK''': Unified API for VR/AR switching
* '''Depth API''': Direct LiDAR data access
* '''Chroma Key SDK''': Custom background removal
* '''Unity XR Plugin''': Native mixed reality support
* '''Unreal Engine Integration''': Blueprint-based XR tools


* '''Non-Fresnel lenses'''
===Professional Software Support===
* Crystal clear optics
* '''[[Autodesk VRED]]''': Automotive design with AR
* No god rays
* '''[[Siemens NX]]''': CAD overlay on physical parts
* Edge-to-edge clarity
* '''[[Unity MARS]]''': Mixed reality authoring
* Ultra-wide design
* '''[[Microsoft Dynamics 365]]''': Enterprise AR applications


=== Eye Tracking ===
==System Requirements==
Higher than VR-3 due to passthrough processing:
* '''Operating System''': [[Windows 10]]/11 Pro 64-bit
* '''Processor''': [[Intel Core i9]]-9900K or [[AMD Ryzen 9]] 3900X
* '''Graphics''': [[NVIDIA RTX 3080]] or [[Quadro RTX 6000]]
* '''Memory''': 32 GB RAM minimum
* '''Storage''': 500 GB SSD recommended
* '''Ports''': DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C 3.0


Industry-leading integrated system:
==Industry Applications==


* '''200 Hz''' tracking rate (2x previous generation)
===Automotive Design===
* '''<1° accuracy'''—world-leading for integrated XR/VR
Revolutionary workflow capabilities:
* Enables foveated rendering
* '''Clay Model Overlay''': Virtual designs on physical models
* Automatic IPD adjustment
* '''Ergonomics Testing''': Real driver with virtual interior
* Gaze analytics
* '''Color Matching''': Compare virtual and physical materials
* Natural interaction
* '''Design Reviews''': Stakeholders see AR annotations


=== Hand Tracking ===
Major adopters:
* '''[[Volvo Cars]]''': Safety system visualization
* '''[[KIA]]''': Global design collaboration
* '''[[Continental AG]]''': HMI development


* '''Ultraleap Gemini''' (5th generation)
===Medical Training===
* First Gemini integration in XR/VR headset
* '''Surgical Planning''': 3D models overlaid on patients
* High-fidelity hand and finger tracking
* '''Medical Education''': Anatomy visualization on cadavers
* Natural gesture interaction
* '''Remote Assistance''': Expert guidance via AR
* '''Therapy Applications''': Mixed reality rehabilitation


=== Mixed Reality (Passthrough) ===
Institutional users:
* '''[[HCA Healthcare]]''': Surgical training programs
* '''[[Children's Hospital Los Angeles]]''': Pediatric procedures
* '''Medical universities worldwide'''


Photorealistic video passthrough:
===Aerospace and Defense===
* '''Maintenance Training''': AR work instructions
* '''Cockpit Design''': Virtual controls in real cockpit
* '''Mission Planning''': Terrain visualization
* '''Simulation''': Mixed reality flight training


* '''12-megapixel stereo RGB cameras'''
Key customers:
* Low-latency passthrough
* '''[[Boeing]]''': Assembly line training
* True-to-life color reproduction
* '''[[Lockheed Martin]]''': F-35 maintenance
* Real-time environment view
* '''Various defense contractors''': Classified programs


=== Depth Sensing ===
==Advanced Features==


* '''Built-in LiDAR sensors'''
===200Hz Eye Tracking in XR===
* RGB + LiDAR fusion
Enhanced for mixed reality:
* 40 cm to 5 m operating range
* '''Vergence Tracking''': Measure eye convergence
* Spatial awareness
* '''Depth Estimation''': Gaze-based distance calculation
* Depth occlusion
* '''Attention Analysis''': Real-world fixation mapping
* '''Calibration Transfer''': VR calibration works in AR


=== IPD Adjustment ===
===Ultraleap Gemini Hand Tracking===
Optimized for mixed reality:
* '''Wider Tracking Volume''': 160° × 160° coverage
* '''Better Occlusion''': Handles real object interference
* '''Lower Latency''': 15ms hand detection
* '''Gesture Library''': Pre-built XR interactions


* '''Automatic IPD''' (59-71mm range)
===Inside-Out Tracking (Beta)===
* Eye tracking-based calibration
Experimental markerless tracking:
* No manual adjustment needed
* '''4 Tracking Cameras''': Separate from passthrough cameras
* '''SLAM Algorithm''': Simultaneous localization and mapping
* '''Hybrid Mode''': Combine with base stations
* '''Persistent Mapping''': Remember room layouts


=== Build ===
==Variants and Configurations==


* '''594g''' headset weight
===XR-3 Standard Edition===
* '''386g''' headband
* Full mixed reality capabilities
* Active cooling system
* 12MP passthrough cameras
* Premium build quality
* LiDAR depth sensing
* 90 Hz refresh rate
* $5,495 + $1,495/year


== Technical Specifications ==
===XR-3 Focal Edition===
* All standard features plus:
* Varifocal camera system
* Gaze-directed autofocus
* Research-grade eye tracking data
* Custom pricing


{| class="wikitable"
===XR-3 Secure Edition===
|-
* [[TAA]]/[[BAA]] compliant
! Specification !! Details
* Offline operation mode
|-
* Secure boot process
| Display || Bionic (uOLED + LCD)
* Government/defense only
|-
| Focus Resolution || 1920x1920 per eye (uOLED)
|-
| Peripheral Resolution || 2880x2720 per eye (LCD)
|-
| PPD || 70 (focus) / 30+ (peripheral)
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
|-
| Field of View || 115°
|-
| Eye Tracking || 200 Hz, <1° accuracy
|-
| Passthrough || 12MP stereo RGB
|-
| LiDAR || Yes
|-
| Hand Tracking || Ultraleap Gemini
|-
| IPD Range || 59-71mm (automatic)
|-
| Weight || 594g + 386g headband
|-
| Price || $5,495
|}


== Enterprise Applications ==
==Market Reception==


=== Training and Simulation ===
===Critical Response===
* Flight simulation
Professional reviews highlighted breakthrough features:
* Medical training
* Industrial training
* Military simulation


=== Design and Engineering ===
'''Strengths''':
* CAD visualization
* Best-in-class passthrough quality
* Architectural review
* LiDAR depth unprecedented in VR/AR
* Product design
* Seamless VR/AR transitions
* Engineering analysis
* 115° FOV matched VR mode
* Lighter than expected (594g)


=== Research ===
'''Limitations''':
* Eye tracking studies
* High system requirements
* Human factors research
* Expensive subscription model
* Cognitive science
* Limited passthrough FOV vs human vision
* Behavioral analysis
* Tethered operation only
 
===Industry Impact===
The XR-3 influenced mixed reality development:
* Established LiDAR as essential for professional AR
* Proved high-resolution passthrough feasible
* Accelerated enterprise XR adoption
* Set new benchmark for AR/VR switching
 
==Technical Innovations==
 
===Photorealistic Passthrough Pipeline===
* '''ISP Integration''': Custom image signal processor
* '''Temporal Filtering''': Reduced video noise
* '''Chromatic Correction''': Lens aberration compensation
* '''Dynamic Range''': 12-stop exposure latitude


== Reception ==
===Real-Time Depth Processing===
* '''GPU Acceleration''': CUDA-optimized depth maps
* '''Sensor Fusion''': Combine LiDAR with stereo depth
* '''Predictive Filling''': Interpolate occluded areas
* '''Edge Detection''': Sub-pixel boundary accuracy


'''Praise:'''
==Manufacturing and Quality==
* 70 PPD human-eye resolution in focus area
* '''Helsinki Production''': In-house manufacturing
* 115° FOV widest at launch
* '''Sensor Calibration''': Individual unit optimization
* 200 Hz eye tracking industry-leading
* '''Burn-In Testing''': 48-hour stress tests
* <1° eye tracking accuracy exceptional
* '''Quality Metrics''': <2% RMA rate reported
* 12MP passthrough photorealistic
* LiDAR depth sensing innovative
* Ultraleap Gemini hand tracking first
* Non-Fresnel optics no god rays
* Automatic IPD convenient
* 99% sRGB color accuracy professional


'''Criticism:'''
==Legacy and Future==
* $5,495 price limits accessibility
The XR-3 established Varjo's leadership in professional mixed reality:
* Enterprise-only focus
* First production headset with LiDAR depth sensing
* 594g + headband heavy
* Achieved "good enough" passthrough for professional use
* Requires powerful PC
* Validated mixed reality for enterprise workflows
* SteamVR Lighthouse tracking needed
* Influenced competitors toward higher-quality passthrough
* Tethered operation only
* 90 Hz (not 120 Hz)<ref name="tomshardware">{{cite web |url=https://www.tomshardware.com/news/varjo-vr-3-and-xr-3-virtual-reality-headsets |title=Varjo VR-3 and XR-3 VR Headsets Raise the Resolution Bar With Bionic Displays |publisher=Tom's Hardware |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


<ref name="knoxlabs">{{cite web |url=https://www.knoxlabs.com/products/varjo-xr-3 |title=Varjo XR-3: Mixed Reality Headset for Professionals |publisher=Knoxlabs |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
The XR-3's success directly led to:
* [[Varjo XR-4]] development with improved cameras
* Industry shift toward depth-sensing AR
* Increased enterprise XR investment
* New mixed reality use cases


== See Also ==
==See Also==
* [[Mixed reality]]
* [[Varjo|Varjo Technologies]]
* [[Varjo VR-3]]
* [[Varjo VR-3]]
* [[Varjo XR-4]]
* [[Varjo XR-4]]
* [[Varjo Aero]]
* [[LiDAR]]
* [[Microsoft HoloLens 2]]
* [[Video pass-through]]
* [[Magic Leap 2]]
* [[Depth sensing]]
* [[TAA compliance]]
 
==References==
<references>
<ref name="varjo-announcement">{{cite web|url=https://varjo.com/press-release/varjo-launches-xr-3-and-vr-3-headsets-to-bring-the-next-generation-of-immersive-technology-to-every-workplace/|title=Varjo Launches XR-3 and VR-3 Headsets to Bring the Next Generation of Immersive Technology to Every Workplace|publisher=Varjo|date=December 1, 2020|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
<ref name="roadtovr">{{cite web|url=https://www.roadtovr.com/varjo-xr-3-vr-3-announcement-specs-release-date-price/|title=Varjo Announces XR-3 and VR-3 Headsets – Specs, Price, Release Date|publisher=Road to VR|date=December 1, 2020|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
<ref name="varjo-xr3-product">{{cite web|url=https://varjo.com/products/varjo-xr-3/|title=Varjo XR-3 - The industry's highest resolution mixed reality headset|publisher=Varjo|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
<ref name="varjo-focal">{{cite web|url=https://varjo.com/products/varjo-xr-3-focal-edition/|title=Mixed Reality Training - Varjo XR-3 Focal Edition|publisher=Varjo|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
<ref name="auganix">{{cite web|url=https://www.auganix.org/varjo-launches-its-next-generation-xr-3-and-vr-3-headsets-for-businesses-and-enterprise/|title=Varjo launches its next generation XR-3 and VR-3 headsets for businesses and enterprise|publisher=Auganix|date=December 2020|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
<ref name="symetri">{{cite web|url=https://www.symetri.co.uk/news-events/news/press-release-varjo-launch-xr-3-headsets/|title=Press Release: Varjo Launch XR-3 Headsets|publisher=Symetri|date=December 2020|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
</references>


== References ==
{{reflist}}


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality Devices]]
[[Category:PC VR Headsets]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Enterprise VR]]
[[Category:MR Headsets]]
[[Category:Varjo]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Headsets]]
[[Category:2020 in technology]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality Headsets]]
[[Category:Products introduced in 2020]]
[[Category:Finnish brands]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]

Revision as of 18:10, 7 January 2026

Varjo XR-3
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 December 1, 2020
Release Date December 2020
Price $5,495 + $1,495/year subscription
Website https://varjo.com
Versions XR-3, XR-3 Focal Edition
Requires High-end PC
Predecessor Varjo XR-1 (Developer Edition)
Successor Varjo XR-4
System
Operating System Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
Storage
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display uOLED (focus) + LCD (peripheral)
Subpixel Layout RGB
Peak Brightness 150 nits
Resolution Focus: 1920×1920 per eye, Context: 2880×2720 per eye
Pixel Density 70+ PPD (focus), 30+ PPD (periphery)
Refresh Rate 90 Hz
Persistence Low persistence
Precision Sub-pixel precision
Image
Field of View 115°
Horizontal FoV 115°
Vertical FoV N/A
Visible FoV 115°
Rendered FoV 115°
Binocular Overlap less than 85%
Average Pixel Density N/A
Peak Pixel Density 70+ PPD
Foveated Rendering Yes (dynamic)
Optics
Optics Aspheric lenses
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range 58-73mm (automatic adjustment)
Adjustable Diopter No
Passthrough Yes (12MP RGB cameras + LiDAR)
Tracking
Tracking SteamVR 2.0, Inside-out (beta)
Tracking Frequency 1000 Hz
Base Stations Optional
Eye Tracking Yes (200Hz)
Hand Tracking Yes (Ultraleap Gemini)
Rotational Tracking 6DOF
Positional Tracking 6DOF
Update Rate 1000 Hz
Tracking Volume Up to 10m × 10m
Play Space Room-scale
Latency less than 20ms (VR), less than 20ms (passthrough)
Audio
Audio Off-ear speakers (37mm drivers)
Microphone Yes
3.5mm Audio Jack Yes
Camera 2× 12MP RGB, 2× LiDAR depth sensors
Connectivity
Connectivity DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C 3.0
Ports 1× DisplayPort 1.4, 1× USB-C 3.0
Wired Video DisplayPort 1.4
Power External power adapter
Device
Weight 594g (headset only)
Material Magnesium alloy, plastic
Headstrap 3-point precision fit headband
Haptics No
Color Black
Sensors 200Hz eye tracking, IMU, depth sensors
Input Compatible with SteamVR controllers
Compliance CE, FCC, TAA-compliant option
Cable Length 5 meters

The Varjo XR-3 is a professional PC-powered mixed reality and virtual reality head-mounted display[1] announced on December 1, 2020,[2][3] by Varjo Technologies. Building on the Varjo VR-3 platform, the XR-3 adds advanced video passthrough capabilities with 12-megapixel cameras and LiDAR depth sensing, enabling seamless transitions between virtual and augmented reality.[4]

History

The XR-3 succeeded Varjo's experimental XR-1 developer kit, representing the company's first production mixed reality headset. Development focused on achieving photorealistic passthrough quality with accurate depth perception, targeting industries requiring seamless AR/VR switching such as automotive design, medical training, and aerospace simulation.[5]

Key innovations included:

  • Industry's first VR headset with integrated LiDAR
  • Highest resolution passthrough cameras in mixed reality
  • Real-time depth-based occlusion
  • Seamless VR/AR switching capability

Technical Specifications

Mixed Reality System

The XR-3's passthrough system represents a significant advancement:

  • RGB Cameras: Dual 12-megapixel sensors
  • Frame Rate: 90 fps video passthrough
  • Latency: Sub-20ms glass-to-glass
  • Field of View: Matches 115° display FOV
  • Color Accuracy: 94% sRGB in passthrough mode

LiDAR Depth Sensing

First-of-its-kind integration in VR/AR:

  • Technology: Time-of-flight LiDAR sensors
  • Range: 0.5m to 5m depth sensing
  • Resolution: 640×480 depth map
  • Frame Rate: 30 fps depth updates
  • Accuracy: ±5mm at 1m distance

Display Technology

Identical to VR-3 base specifications:

  • Focus Display: 1920×1920 micro-OLED per eye
  • Context Display: 2880×2720 LCD per eye
  • Virtual Resolution: 70+ PPD center, 30+ PPD periphery
  • Refresh Rate: 90 Hz

Mixed Reality Features

Video Passthrough Quality

The XR-3 achieved unprecedented passthrough fidelity:

  • Chroma Keying: Real-time green screen removal
  • Exposure Control: Automatic HDR adjustment
  • White Balance: Scene-adaptive color correction
  • Distortion Correction: Minimal warping artifacts

Depth-Based Occlusion

LiDAR enables realistic object interaction:

  • Pixel-Perfect Occlusion: Virtual objects behind real objects
  • Hand Occlusion: Natural hand-over-virtual interactions
  • Dynamic Meshing: Real-time 3D environment reconstruction
  • Collision Detection: Physics-based AR interactions

XR-3 Focal Edition

Special variant with experimental features:[6]

  • Varifocal Cameras: Motorized focus adjustment
  • Gaze-Directed Focus: Camera focus follows eye gaze
  • Extended Depth Range: 20cm to infinity focus
  • Research Applications: Vergence-accommodation studies

Software Capabilities

Varjo Reality Cloud XR

Cloud-based mixed reality platform:

  • Remote Rendering: Stream XR content from servers
  • Multi-User Sessions: Collaborative AR experiences
  • Persistent AR: Save and share AR annotations
  • Cross-Platform: Works with other Varjo headsets

Development Tools

  • XR SDK: Unified API for VR/AR switching
  • Depth API: Direct LiDAR data access
  • Chroma Key SDK: Custom background removal
  • Unity XR Plugin: Native mixed reality support
  • Unreal Engine Integration: Blueprint-based XR tools

Professional Software Support

System Requirements

Higher than VR-3 due to passthrough processing:

Industry Applications

Automotive Design

Revolutionary workflow capabilities:

  • Clay Model Overlay: Virtual designs on physical models
  • Ergonomics Testing: Real driver with virtual interior
  • Color Matching: Compare virtual and physical materials
  • Design Reviews: Stakeholders see AR annotations

Major adopters:

Medical Training

  • Surgical Planning: 3D models overlaid on patients
  • Medical Education: Anatomy visualization on cadavers
  • Remote Assistance: Expert guidance via AR
  • Therapy Applications: Mixed reality rehabilitation

Institutional users:

Aerospace and Defense

  • Maintenance Training: AR work instructions
  • Cockpit Design: Virtual controls in real cockpit
  • Mission Planning: Terrain visualization
  • Simulation: Mixed reality flight training

Key customers:

  • Boeing: Assembly line training
  • Lockheed Martin: F-35 maintenance
  • Various defense contractors: Classified programs

Advanced Features

200Hz Eye Tracking in XR

Enhanced for mixed reality:

  • Vergence Tracking: Measure eye convergence
  • Depth Estimation: Gaze-based distance calculation
  • Attention Analysis: Real-world fixation mapping
  • Calibration Transfer: VR calibration works in AR

Ultraleap Gemini Hand Tracking

Optimized for mixed reality:

  • Wider Tracking Volume: 160° × 160° coverage
  • Better Occlusion: Handles real object interference
  • Lower Latency: 15ms hand detection
  • Gesture Library: Pre-built XR interactions

Inside-Out Tracking (Beta)

Experimental markerless tracking:

  • 4 Tracking Cameras: Separate from passthrough cameras
  • SLAM Algorithm: Simultaneous localization and mapping
  • Hybrid Mode: Combine with base stations
  • Persistent Mapping: Remember room layouts

Variants and Configurations

XR-3 Standard Edition

  • Full mixed reality capabilities
  • 12MP passthrough cameras
  • LiDAR depth sensing
  • $5,495 + $1,495/year

XR-3 Focal Edition

  • All standard features plus:
  • Varifocal camera system
  • Gaze-directed autofocus
  • Research-grade eye tracking data
  • Custom pricing

XR-3 Secure Edition

  • TAA/BAA compliant
  • Offline operation mode
  • Secure boot process
  • Government/defense only

Market Reception

Critical Response

Professional reviews highlighted breakthrough features:

Strengths:

  • Best-in-class passthrough quality
  • LiDAR depth unprecedented in VR/AR
  • Seamless VR/AR transitions
  • 115° FOV matched VR mode
  • Lighter than expected (594g)

Limitations:

  • High system requirements
  • Expensive subscription model
  • Limited passthrough FOV vs human vision
  • Tethered operation only

Industry Impact

The XR-3 influenced mixed reality development:

  • Established LiDAR as essential for professional AR
  • Proved high-resolution passthrough feasible
  • Accelerated enterprise XR adoption
  • Set new benchmark for AR/VR switching

Technical Innovations

Photorealistic Passthrough Pipeline

  • ISP Integration: Custom image signal processor
  • Temporal Filtering: Reduced video noise
  • Chromatic Correction: Lens aberration compensation
  • Dynamic Range: 12-stop exposure latitude

Real-Time Depth Processing

  • GPU Acceleration: CUDA-optimized depth maps
  • Sensor Fusion: Combine LiDAR with stereo depth
  • Predictive Filling: Interpolate occluded areas
  • Edge Detection: Sub-pixel boundary accuracy

Manufacturing and Quality

  • Helsinki Production: In-house manufacturing
  • Sensor Calibration: Individual unit optimization
  • Burn-In Testing: 48-hour stress tests
  • Quality Metrics: <2% RMA rate reported

Legacy and Future

The XR-3 established Varjo's leadership in professional mixed reality:

  • First production headset with LiDAR depth sensing
  • Achieved "good enough" passthrough for professional use
  • Validated mixed reality for enterprise workflows
  • Influenced competitors toward higher-quality passthrough

The XR-3's success directly led to:

  • Varjo XR-4 development with improved cameras
  • Industry shift toward depth-sensing AR
  • Increased enterprise XR investment
  • New mixed reality use cases

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "Varjo XR-3 - The industry's highest resolution mixed reality headset". Varjo. https://varjo.com/products/varjo-xr-3/.
  2. ↑ "Varjo launches its next generation XR-3 and VR-3 headsets for businesses and enterprise". Auganix. December 2020. https://www.auganix.org/varjo-launches-its-next-generation-xr-3-and-vr-3-headsets-for-businesses-and-enterprise/.
  3. ↑ "Press Release: Varjo Launch XR-3 Headsets". Symetri. December 2020. https://www.symetri.co.uk/news-events/news/press-release-varjo-launch-xr-3-headsets/.
  4. ↑ "Varjo Launches XR-3 and VR-3 Headsets to Bring the Next Generation of Immersive Technology to Every Workplace". Varjo. December 1, 2020. https://varjo.com/press-release/varjo-launches-xr-3-and-vr-3-headsets-to-bring-the-next-generation-of-immersive-technology-to-every-workplace/.
  5. ↑ "Varjo Announces XR-3 and VR-3 Headsets – Specs, Price, Release Date". Road to VR. December 1, 2020. https://www.roadtovr.com/varjo-xr-3-vr-3-announcement-specs-release-date-price/.
  6. ↑ "Mixed Reality Training - Varjo XR-3 Focal Edition". Varjo. https://varjo.com/products/varjo-xr-3-focal-edition/.
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/index.php?title=Varjo_XR-3&oldid=37170"