Lenovo Explorer

Lenovo Explorer
Basic Info
VR/AR	Virtual Reality
Type	Head-mounted display
Subtype	Discrete HMD
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