Somnium VR1
| Somnium VR1 | |
|---|---|
| Basic Info | |
| VR/AR | Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality |
| Type | Head-mounted display |
| Subtype | PC VR (Open Source) |
| Platform | PC, SteamVR |
| Creator | Somnium Space, VRgineers, Prusa Research |
| Price | €4,299 (Ultimate Edition) |
| Website | https://store.somniumspace.com |
| System | |
| GPU | Host PC dependent |
| Storage | |
| Display | |
| Display | 2 x 3.2" QLED Mini-LED Fast LCD |
| Resolution | 5760 x 2880 (2880 x 2880 per eye) |
| Image | |
| Optics | |
| Tracking | |
| Tracking | 6DoF (SteamVR lighthouse) |
| Eye Tracking | Yes |
| Hand Tracking | Yes (Ultraleap, 170°x170° FOV, 120Hz) |
| Audio | |
| Connectivity | |
| Connectivity | USB Type-C (all-in-one cable) |
| Ports | USB-C (6m hybrid cable with DP, USB 3.2, power) |
| Device | |
| Sensors | 2 passthrough cameras (3864x2192 @ 90fps) |
| Input | SteamVR controllers (Index/Vive) |
The Somnium VR1 is an open-source, modular virtual reality and mixed reality head-mounted display developed by Somnium Space in partnership with VRgineers and Prusa Research. Announced at CES 2023, the VR1 features dual 2880 x 2880 QLED Mini-LED displays with HDR local dimming, eye tracking, Ultraleap hand tracking, and mixed reality passthrough cameras. The headset is designed with an open-source philosophy, allowing users to 3D print parts and build their own headsets using publicly available designs and purchasable components.[1]
History and Development
Partnership Announcement
Somnium Space partnered with VRgineers (enterprise VR headset maker) and Prusa Research (3D printer company) to develop an open-source VR platform.
CES 2023
The VR1 Development Kit was available at CES 2023, showcasing the modular design philosophy.
Open Source Philosophy
The VR1 aims to change restrictive VR market practices by making hardware designs openly available.[2]
Design and Hardware
Display System
- Panel Size: 2 x 3.2 inches
- Resolution: 2880 x 2880 per eye (5760 x 2880 total)
- Display Type: QLED Mini-LED Fast LCD
- Brightness: 210 nits
- Contrast: 20,000:1 with HDR local dimming
Field of View
- Horizontal: 125 degrees
- Vertical: 100 degrees
Optics
Custom non-Fresnel, crystal clear lenses for maximum clarity.
Eye Tracking
Integrated eye tracking for:
- Foveated rendering
- Gaze interaction
- Avatar eye movement
Hand Tracking
Ultraleap Integration
- Field of View: 170° x 170°
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Provider: Ultraleap
Mixed Reality
Passthrough Cameras
- Resolution: 2 x 3864 x 2192
- Frame Rate: 90 fps (foveated transport)
- Field of View: 120° x 100°
Open Source Design
3D Printable Parts
- 3D models available on Printables.com (Prusa's website)
- Users can print parts at home
- Supports maintenance and upgrades
Public Source Code
Android OS source codes available in public GIT repository.
DIY Option
Users can:
- Download 3D part models
- Purchase electronic components, sensors, and lenses from Somnium
- Build their own headsets
Tracking
SteamVR Tracking
Uses SteamVR "lighthouse" base stations:
- Compatible with Valve Index base stations
- Compatible with HTC Vive base stations
- 6DoF tracking
Compatible Controllers
- Valve Index Controllers
- HTC Vive Controllers
Connectivity
All-In-One USB-C Cable
- Length: 6 meters (20 feet)
- Features: Hybrid cable with DisplayPort, USB 3 Gen 2, and power
Editions
Ultimate Edition (€4,299)
Includes:
- VR functionality
- Eye tracking
- Mixed reality passthrough
- Hand tracking
Classic Edition
Base VR functionality without all tracking features.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 2 x 3.2" QLED Mini-LED LCD |
| Resolution | 2880 x 2880 per eye |
| Contrast | 20,000:1 (HDR) |
| Field of View | 125° H x 100° V |
| Eye Tracking | Yes |
| Hand Tracking | Ultraleap (120 Hz) |
| Passthrough | 3864x2192 @ 90fps |
| Tracking | SteamVR 6DoF |
| Cable | 6m USB-C hybrid |
| Open Source | Yes (3D printable parts) |
| Price | €4,299 (Ultimate) |