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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Lynx R-1
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]], [[Augmented Reality]], [[Mixed Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = Standalone MR
|Subtype = [[Standalone VR]]
|Platform = [[Android]]
|Platform = [[Android]] 12
|Creator = [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
|Creator = [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
|Announced = 2020
|Developer = [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
|Release = 2023
|Manufacturer = [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
|Price = $849 (Development Kit)
|Announcement Date = 2021
|Website = https://www.lynx-r.com
|Release Date = 2023
|OS = Android 10
|Price = $1,099 (Enterprise), ~$600 (Kickstarter)
|CPU = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]]
|Website = https://www.lynx-r.com/
|Versions = Lynx R-1, Lynx R-1 Enterprise
|Requires = None (standalone)
|Predecessor = None
|Successor =
|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
|GPU = Adreno 650
|Storage = 128 GB (expandable via SD card to 1 TB)
|HPU =
|RAM = 6 GB
|Storage = 128GB
|Display = LCD
|Memory = 6GB
|Resolution = 1600 x 1600 per eye
|SD Card Slot = No
|Refresh = 90 Hz
|Display = Dual LCD
|Brightness =
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|FOV = 90°
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|PPD =
|Resolution = 1800 × 1800 per eye (3600 × 1800 combined)
|Lenses = Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism
|Pixel Density = ~20 PPD
|IPD =
|Refresh Rate = 90Hz
|Eye Tracking =
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Hand Tracking = Yes (Ultraleap)
|Field of View = 90°
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out)
|Horizontal FoV = ~90°
|Spatial Mapping =
|Vertical FoV = ~90°
|Speakers =
|Average Pixel Density = ~20 PPD
|Microphone =
|Peak Pixel Density = ~20 PPD
|Audio Jack =
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 6/5
|Optics = Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism
|Ports = USB-C, SD card slot
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Battery =
|IPD Range = 60-70mm (manual adjustment)
|Weight =
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|Materials =
|Passthrough = Yes (full-color stereo)
|Colors =
|Tracking = 6DoF inside-out (SLAM)
|Sensors = 6 cameras (2 B&W tracking, 2 IR hand tracking, 2 RGB passthrough)
|Tracking Frequency = 60Hz
|Input = Hand tracking, optional controllers
|Base Stations = None required
|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 [[Lynx Mixed Reality]], a French XR company. The R-1 features a novel "four-fold catadioptric freeform prism" optical system that enables both VR and color passthrough AR in a compact form factor. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2, the headset emphasizes hand tracking as its primary input method and supports an open Android 10 platform. The Lynx R-1 raised over $800,000 on Kickstarter and is designed with privacy and data sovereignty in mind.<ref name="roadtovr">{{cite web|url=https://www.roadtovr.com/lynx-kickstarter-release-mixed-reality/|title=Lynx R-1 MR Headset Kickstarter Comes to an End with over $800,000|publisher=Road to VR}}</ref>
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 ==


=== French XR Company ===
=== Company Origins ===
Lynx Mixed Reality is a French startup that set out to create an affordable, open mixed reality platform without the restrictions of larger tech company ecosystems.<ref name="lavalvirtual">{{cite web|url=https://blog.laval-virtual.com/en/lynx-r-1-french-mixed-reality-standalone-headset/|title=Lynx R-1, the 100% French mixed reality headset|publisher=Laval Virtual}}</ref>
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.


=== Kickstarter Campaign ===
=== Kickstarter Campaign ===
The Lynx R-1 was funded through a successful Kickstarter campaign, raising over $800,000 from backers interested in an open alternative to mainstream XR headsets.
Lynx launched a Kickstarter campaign in late 2021:
* Goal: €200,000
* Final funding: Over €900,000
* Backers: Approximately 2,000
* Early bird pricing: ~$600


=== Development Focus ===
=== Development Challenges ===
The R-1 is positioned as a development kit for creators building mixed reality applications, with emphasis on accessibility and openness.
The project faced typical hardware startup challenges:
* Supply chain disruptions
* Component availability issues
* Extended development timeline
* Delayed shipping to backers


== Design and Hardware ==
=== 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


=== Novel Optics ===
=== 2024-2025 Status ===
The Lynx R-1 uses a unique "four-fold catadioptric freeform prism" optical system:
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.
* Significantly slims down headset size
* Enables compact form factor
* Supports both VR and AR modes


=== Display System ===
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''Resolution:''' 1600 x 1600 per eye
* '''Refresh Rate:''' 90 Hz
* '''Field of View:''' 90 degrees


=== Processor ===
=== Unique Optical Approach ===
* '''SoC:''' Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2
Lynx's most distinctive feature is its proprietary optical system:
* '''RAM:''' 6 GB
* Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism design
* '''Storage:''' 128 GB internal
* Unlike pancake, Fresnel, or traditional lenses
* '''Expansion:''' SD card slot up to 1 TB
* Enables compact form factor with good FOV
* Novel approach to VR/AR optical challenges


=== Physical Design ===
=== AR-First Design ===
* '''Flip-up Visor:''' Can flip up without removing headset
Built with mixed reality as primary use case:
* '''Magnetic VR Cover:''' Optional light-blocking facial interface
* No default light blockers
* '''Battery:''' Carefully positioned for balance
* Peripheral vision maintained
* Magnetic side covers available for VR mode
* Flip-up visor for instant real-world view


== Camera System ==
=== 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


Six cameras enable multiple functionalities:
== Display Technology ==


=== Tracking Cameras (2) ===
=== LCD Panels ===
Black and white cameras for 6DoF positional SLAM tracking.
Dual LCD displays:
* '''Resolution''': 1800 × 1800 per eye
* '''Total Resolution''': 3600 × 1800
* '''Refresh Rate''': 90Hz
* '''Aspect Ratio''': 1:1 square


=== Hand Tracking Cameras (2) ===
=== Field of View ===
Infrared cameras for Ultraleap hand tracking.
Balanced FOV:
* '''Total''': ~90°
* Reasonable immersion for VR
* Adequate for AR overlays
* Compact optical path


=== Passthrough Cameras (2) ===
=== Freeform Prism Optics ===
RGB cameras for color video passthrough AR mode.
The four-fold catadioptric freeform prism system:
* Light folded multiple times through prism
* Enables slim form factor
* Clear viewing without multiple lens elements
* Proprietary Lynx innovation


== Tracking and Input ==
== Mixed Reality Capabilities ==
 
=== Color Passthrough System ===
Six-camera array enables various functions:
* '''2× B&W cameras''': 6DoF positional tracking
* '''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 ===
Primary input via Ultraleap hand tracking—controller-free interaction is the default mode.
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 ==
 
=== Android 12 ===
Open platform approach:
* Android 12 base OS
* Custom Lynx launcher
* APK sideloading capability
* OpenXR support
 
=== Ecosystem ===
Application availability:
* Growing native app library
* Sideloaded Android apps
* PCVR streaming capability
* OpenXR game compatibility
 
=== Enterprise Software ===
Business features:
* Enterprise deployment options
* Custom application development
* Integration with workflows
 
== Physical Design ==
 
=== Lightweight Construction ===
Compact and comfortable:
* Estimated ~350g weight
* Balanced design
* Suitable for extended wear
* Flip-up mechanism adds versatility
 
=== Build Quality ===
Startup-tier construction:
* Plastic housing
* Adjustable head strap
* Orange accent color
* Functional design
 
=== Comfort Features ===
* Adjustable strap system
* Flip-up visor reduces face pressure
* Glasses-compatible
* Adequate ventilation
 
== Connectivity ==


=== Head Tracking ===
=== Wireless ===
6DoF inside-out positional tracking.
Standard connectivity:
* Wi-Fi 6 for high-bandwidth applications
* Bluetooth 5.2 for accessories


=== Optional Controllers ===
=== USB-C ===
Compatible with controllers for applications requiring traditional input.
Wired capabilities:
* Charging
* PC streaming
* Data transfer


== Mixed Reality Modes ==
== Battery Life ==


=== VR Mode ===
=== Internal Battery ===
Full virtual reality with magnetic facial cover blocking external light.
Standalone operation:
* 2-3 hours typical use
* Adequate for work sessions
* USB-C charging
 
== Target Applications ==


=== AR Mode ===
=== Enterprise ===
Color passthrough augmented reality using dual RGB cameras.
Primary market focus:
* Training and simulation
* Remote assistance
* Industrial AR
* Healthcare applications


=== Hybrid Mode ===
=== Education ===
Applications can blend virtual and real content simultaneously.
Learning applications:
* Medical training
* Technical education
* Interactive learning


== Software Platform ==
=== Development ===
Developer platform:
* OpenXR support
* Android development
* Prototyping hardware


=== Open Android ===
== Comparison with Competitors ==
* Android 10 operating system
* No account requirements
* Open development platform


=== Engine Support ===
=== vs. Meta Quest 2/3 ===
* Unity3D
{| class="wikitable"
* Unreal Engine
|-
* SteamVR compatible
! 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
|}


=== PC Streaming ===
=== Market Position ===
* Wireless streaming via Wi-Fi 6/5
Lynx occupies a niche between:
* Wired PC connection support
* Consumer headsets (Quest) - more expensive
* Enterprise AR (HoloLens, Magic Leap) - more affordable
* Unique AR-first standalone approach


== Privacy Features ==
== Challenges and Limitations ==


=== Data Sovereignty ===
=== Small Company Constraints ===
* No Facebook account required
* Limited production capacity
* No Microsoft Azure cloud required
* Smaller software ecosystem
* Complete offline operation possible
* Less marketing reach
* Uncertain long-term support


=== Sensor Control ===
=== Technical Limitations ===
Users can deactivate any sensor that collects sensitive information.
* No eye tracking
* Limited app availability
* Passthrough latency (~50ms)
* IPD adjustment range (60-70mm) narrower than competitors


== Package Contents ==
== Pricing ==


Development Kit includes:
{| class="wikitable"
* Lynx R-1 headset
|-
* Magnetic front foams
! Edition !! Price !! Target
* Magnetic VR facial interface
|-
* USB Type-C cable
| Lynx R-1 (Kickstarter) || ~$600 || Early backers
|-
| Lynx R-1 Enterprise || $1,099 || Business customers
|}


== Specifications ==
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 152: Line 366:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || LCD (1600 x 1600 per eye)
| Display || Dual LCD, 1800 × 1800 per eye
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
| FOV || ~90°
|-
|-
| Field of View || 90°
| Refresh Rate || 90Hz
|-
|-
| Optics || Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2
|-
|-
| Processor || Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2
| Memory || 6GB RAM, 128GB storage
|-
|-
| RAM || 6 GB
| Tracking || 6DoF inside-out (SLAM)
|-
|-
| Storage || 128 GB (+ 1 TB SD expansion)
| Hand Tracking || Yes (integrated)
|-
|-
| Cameras || 6 (tracking, hand, passthrough)
| Passthrough || Full-color stereo
|-
|-
| Hand Tracking || Ultraleap
| Optics || Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism
|-
|-
| OS || Android 10
| Weight || ~350g (estimated)
|-
|-
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi 6/5, USB-C
| Battery || 2-3 hours
|-
|-
| Price || $849 (Development Kit)
| Price || $1,099 (Enterprise)
|}
|}


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
* [[Lynx Mixed Reality]]
* [[Mixed reality]]
* [[Mixed Reality]]
* [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]]
* [[Standalone VR]]
* [[Ultraleap]]
* [[Passthrough AR]]
* [[Hand tracking]]
* [[Snapdragon XR2]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 189: Line 403:
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:AR Headsets]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Mixed reality]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Snapdragon XR2]]
[[Category:Hand tracking]]
[[Category:Lynx Mixed Reality]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]

Latest revision as of 03:09, 8 January 2026

Lynx R-1
Basic Info
VR/AR Mixed Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype Standalone VR
Platform Android 12
Creator Lynx Mixed Reality
Developer Lynx Mixed Reality
Manufacturer Lynx Mixed Reality
Announcement Date 2021
Release Date 2023
Price $1,099 (Enterprise), ~$600 (Kickstarter)
Website https://www.lynx-r.com/
Versions Lynx R-1, Lynx R-1 Enterprise
Requires None (standalone)
Predecessor None
System
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
Storage
Storage 128GB
Memory 6GB
SD Card Slot No
Display
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
Image
Field of View 90°
Horizontal FoV ~90°
Vertical FoV ~90°
Average Pixel Density ~20 PPD
Peak Pixel Density ~20 PPD
Foveated Rendering No
Optics
Optics Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range 60-70mm (manual adjustment)
Adjustable Diopter No (glasses compatible)
Passthrough Yes (full-color stereo)
Tracking
Tracking 6DoF inside-out (SLAM)
Tracking Frequency 60Hz
Base Stations None required
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
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
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
Device
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

Property "Platform" (as page type) with input value "Android]] 12" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process. Property "Operating System" (as page type) with input value "Android]] 12 (custom implementation)" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process.


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

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.

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

Development Challenges

The project faced typical hardware startup challenges:

  • Supply chain disruptions
  • Component availability issues
  • Extended development timeline
  • Delayed shipping to backers

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

2024-2025 Status

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.

Design Philosophy

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

AR-First Design

Built with mixed reality as primary use case:

  • No default light blockers
  • Peripheral vision maintained
  • Magnetic side covers available for VR mode
  • Flip-up visor for instant real-world view

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

Display Technology

LCD Panels

Dual LCD displays:

  • Resolution: 1800 × 1800 per eye
  • Total Resolution: 3600 × 1800
  • Refresh Rate: 90Hz
  • Aspect Ratio: 1:1 square

Field of View

Balanced FOV:

  • Total: ~90°
  • Reasonable immersion for VR
  • Adequate for AR overlays
  • Compact optical path

Freeform Prism Optics

The four-fold catadioptric freeform prism system:

  • Light folded multiple times through prism
  • Enables slim form factor
  • Clear viewing without multiple lens elements
  • Proprietary Lynx innovation

Mixed Reality Capabilities

Color Passthrough System

Six-camera array enables various functions:

  • 2× B&W cameras: 6DoF positional tracking
  • 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

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

Android 12

Open platform approach:

  • Android 12 base OS
  • Custom Lynx launcher
  • APK sideloading capability
  • OpenXR support

Ecosystem

Application availability:

  • Growing native app library
  • Sideloaded Android apps
  • PCVR streaming capability
  • OpenXR game compatibility

Enterprise Software

Business features:

  • Enterprise deployment options
  • Custom application development
  • Integration with workflows

Physical Design

Lightweight Construction

Compact and comfortable:

  • Estimated ~350g weight
  • Balanced design
  • Suitable for extended wear
  • Flip-up mechanism adds versatility

Build Quality

Startup-tier construction:

  • Plastic housing
  • Adjustable head strap
  • Orange accent color
  • Functional design

Comfort Features

  • Adjustable strap system
  • Flip-up visor reduces face pressure
  • Glasses-compatible
  • Adequate ventilation

Connectivity

Wireless

Standard connectivity:

  • Wi-Fi 6 for high-bandwidth applications
  • Bluetooth 5.2 for accessories

USB-C

Wired capabilities:

  • Charging
  • PC streaming
  • Data transfer

Battery Life

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

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

Edition Price Target
Lynx R-1 (Kickstarter) ~$600 Early backers
Lynx R-1 Enterprise $1,099 Business customers

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Details
Display Dual LCD, 1800 × 1800 per eye
FOV ~90°
Refresh Rate 90Hz
Processor Snapdragon XR2
Memory 6GB RAM, 128GB storage
Tracking 6DoF inside-out (SLAM)
Hand Tracking Yes (integrated)
Passthrough Full-color stereo
Optics Four-fold catadioptric freeform prism
Weight ~350g (estimated)
Battery 2-3 hours
Price $1,099 (Enterprise)

See Also

References

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