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Magic Leap 2

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Magic Leap 2
Basic Info
VR/AR Augmented Reality
Type Optical head-mounted display
Subtype Standalone AR
Platform Magic Leap Hub
Developer Magic Leap Inc.
Manufacturer Magic Leap Inc.
Release Date September 30, 2022
Price Base Edition: $3,299, Developer Pro Edition: $4,099, Enterprise Edition: $4,999
Website https://www.magicleap.com
Versions Magic Leap 2 Base Edition, Magic Leap 2 Developer Pro Edition, Magic Leap 2 Enterprise Edition, Magic Leap 2 MedTech Edition
Requires Nothing
Predecessor Magic Leap 1
Successor None
System
Operating System Lumin OS
CPU AMD 7nm Zen 2 x86-64 - CPU Core/Thread Count: 4/8 - Max CPU Frequency: 3.92 GHz - Cache: 512 kB L2 per core and 4 MB total L3
GPU AMD RDNA 2 @ 1.1 GHz 1 Shader Array 4 WGPs (Workgroup Processors) 2 RB+ Render Backends 1MB L2 Cache
HPU Custom 14 core CVIP (computer vision) engine
Storage
Storage 256 GB NVMe SSD
Memory 16 GB LPDDR5
Display
Display Industry-leading optics with proprietary waveguide technology, Dynamic-dimming
Resolution 1440 × 1760 pixels per eye
Pixel Density Over 16.8M colors supported
Refresh Rate 120 Hz
Image
Field of View 45° H × 55° V (≈70° diagonal)
Optics
Optics Liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) with waveguide technology
Tracking
Tracking Inside-out, 6DOF, Headpose, gaze tracking, Hand tracking
Rotational Tracking Built-in IMU
Positional Tracking IR+optical six degrees of freedom tracking
Tracking Volume 14.6"-∞ volume of view
Audio
Audio Spatial audio, with 2 built-in stereo speakers, 4-microphone array
Camera 12.6MP full-color RGB camera with autofocus, 3 additional 1MP world-sensing cameras
Connectivity
Connectivity WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
Power Battery
Battery Life Up to 3.5 hrs continuous use (7 days in sleep mode)
Device
Weight 260g (headset only), 425g (Compute Pack)
Sensors Eye tracking, hand tracking, IMU, magnetometers, ambient light sensor, altimeters
Input Magic Leap 2 Controller, Direct manipulation, Works with smartphone, Bluetooth keyboard
Cable Length Wireless (with tethered Compute Pack)

The Magic Leap 2 is an enterprise-focused augmented reality headset developed and manufactured by Magic Leap Inc.. Released on September 30, 2022, it serves as the successor to the company's earlier Magic Leap 1 device.[1] The Magic Leap 2 represents a significant advancement in AR technology, designed primarily for professional and industrial applications rather than consumer use. The device focuses on providing a more immersive augmented reality experience with improved comfort for extended use, enhanced visual capabilities, and powerful computing performance.[2]

Design and Hardware

Physical Design

The Magic Leap 2 features a lightweight, ergonomic design optimized for all-day comfort in professional environments. Unlike many competitors, it utilizes a split-system architecture where the computing and battery units are housed in a separate "Compute Pack" that connects to the headset via a thin cable. This design choice shifts weight away from the user's head, reducing strain during extended use sessions.[3] The headset itself weighs just 260 grams, while the Compute Pack weighs 425 grams and can be attached to a pocket or worn with a strap.[4]

Display Technology

The Magic Leap 2 utilizes proprietary Liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) display technology with advanced waveguide optics developed and manufactured in-house. This technology allows digital content to be projected into the user's field of view while maintaining visibility of the real world.[5] The device features:

  • Resolution: 1440 × 1760 pixels per eye
  • Field of View: 45° horizontal × 55° vertical (approximately 70° diagonal)
  • Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
  • Color Depth: Support for over 16.8 million colors
  • Brightness: Adjustable from 20 to 2,000 nits[6]

Dynamic Dimming Technology

One of the most innovative features of the Magic Leap 2 is its proprietary Dynamic Dimming™ technology, which is the first of its kind in commercial AR headsets. This technology allows the device to adjust the opacity of the lenses from 22% light transmission (similar to sunglasses) down to just 0.3% (nearly opaque).[7]

Dynamic Dimming serves multiple purposes:

  • Makes virtual content appear more solid and realistic against real-world backgrounds
  • Improves contrast and visibility of AR elements in bright environments
  • Enables the rendering of the color black, which is typically impossible in transparent AR displays
  • Can be used selectively to dim only specific areas of the field of view
  • Automatically adjusts based on ambient lighting conditions[8]

Processing Power

The Magic Leap 2 features significant computing capabilities powered by:

  • CPU: AMD 7nm Zen 2 x86-64 processor with 4 cores/8 threads running at up to 3.92 GHz
  • GPU: AMD RDNA 2 architecture graphics processor running at 1.1 GHz
  • Custom Computer Vision Processing Unit (CVPU): 14-core engine dedicated to handling sensor data and spatial mapping
  • Dual-CPU configuration: One processor in the headset handles lighter tasks while the more powerful processor in the Compute Pack manages demanding computations[9]

This processing architecture delivers 2-3 times the performance of the original Magic Leap 1, enabling more complex and responsive AR applications.[10]

Sensors and Tracking

The Magic Leap 2 incorporates a comprehensive suite of more than 18 sensors for precise tracking and environmental understanding:

  • RGB Camera: 12.6 megapixel full-color camera with autofocus capable of 4K/30fps or 1080p/60fps video capture
  • World Sensing Cameras: Three 1MP cameras for spatial mapping and understanding
  • Eye Tracking: Dedicated infrared cameras for precise gaze tracking
  • Hand Tracking: Inside-out optical tracking for natural hand interactions
  • Additional Sensors: IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), magnetometers, ambient light sensor, altimeters[11]

The device provides 6 degrees of freedom (6DOF) tracking with sub-millimeter precision, enabling accurate placement of virtual objects in the physical environment without the need for external tracking equipment.[12]

Controller and Input Methods

The Magic Leap 2 comes with a redesigned controller that uses optical tracking rather than the electromagnetic field tracking of its predecessor. The controller features:

  • Touchpad for gesture inputs
  • Trigger and bumper buttons
  • Home button
  • Customizable menu button
  • Battery life of approximately 3 hours
  • Precise positional tracking with 6DOF via dual on-board cameras and IR LEDs[13]

Beyond the controller, the device supports multiple input methods:

  • Hand tracking for controller-free interaction
  • Eye tracking for gaze-based selection
  • Voice commands
  • Support for Bluetooth keyboards and other peripheral devices[14]

Audio System

The Magic Leap 2 features built-in spatial audio speakers positioned above the ears, which the company calls "Sound Field Audio." This system provides directional sound without covering the ears, allowing users to hear both virtual content and their physical environment simultaneously. The device also includes a four-microphone array for voice commands and communication.[15]

Connectivity

The Magic Leap 2 supports modern connectivity standards including:

  • WiFi 6 for high-speed wireless networking
  • Bluetooth 5.0 for connecting to peripherals and smartphones
  • USB-C for charging and data transfer[16]

Software and Platform

Operating System

The Magic Leap 2 runs on Lumin OS, a custom operating system based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) Android 10. This foundation provides compatibility with existing Android development tools while incorporating Magic Leap's specialized features for augmented reality.[17]

Development Environment

Magic Leap provides developers with several tools for creating applications for the Magic Leap 2:

  • Magic Leap Hub: A desktop application for Windows, macOS, and Linux that provides development tools, SDK access, and device management capabilities
  • SDK Support: Compatible with Unity, Unreal Engine, and native development
  • OpenXR Conformance: Supports the industry-standard OpenXR framework for cross-platform development
  • MRTK Support: Compatibility with Microsoft's Mixed Reality Toolkit for streamlined porting from other platforms[18]

Enterprise Features

The Magic Leap 2 includes numerous features designed specifically for enterprise deployment:

  • Multi-User Support: Local user accounts on the device and directory-managed users (for example Active Directory integration)
  • Iris ID Authentication: Biometric security with single sign-on capabilities for applications
  • Mobile Device Management (MDM): Support for enterprise mobility management solutions
  • AR Cloud: Technology for shared, persistent AR experiences across multiple devices
  • Remote Management: Capabilities for IT administrators to remotely configure, update, and monitor devices[19]

Built-in Applications

The Magic Leap 2 comes with several pre-installed applications, which Magic Leap refers to as "Spotlight Experiences":

  • Magic Leap Assist: Enables users to share their view with remote experts who can provide guidance through annotations and drawings fixed in the user's physical space
  • Magic Leap Workshop: Visualization tool for 3D models and collaborative design
  • Web Browser: Native browser for accessing web content directly from the device[20][21]

Editions and Pricing

The Magic Leap 2 is available in several different editions, each targeted at different use cases:

  • Magic Leap 2 Base Edition: Designed for professionals and developers for commercial deployments and production environments. Priced at $3,299 with a 1-year limited warranty.
  • Magic Leap 2 Developer Pro Edition: Provides access to developer tools, sample projects, enterprise-grade features, and monthly early releases for development and testing. Priced at $4,099 with a 1-year limited warranty.
  • Magic Leap 2 Enterprise Edition: Targeted at large-scale IT deployments with additional enterprise features. Includes quarterly software releases, two-year warranty, and MDM support. Can be used in commercial deployments and production environments. Priced at $4,999.
  • Magic Leap 2 MedTech Edition: Specially certified version for healthcare applications introduced in January 2025.[22][23]

Safety and Certification

In October 2023, the Magic Leap 2 became the first XR device certified to ANSI/CAN/UL 8400, the dedicated safety standard for VR/AR/MR equipment.[24] The optical components undergo ANSI Z87.1 impact testing and comply with US 21 CFR §801.4 eye-safety regulations.[25]

In January 2023, Magic Leap announced that the Magic Leap 2 had received IEC 60601 certification, making it the first AR device approved as electronic medical equipment for use in operating rooms and other medical settings.[26]

Applications and Use Cases

Healthcare

The Magic Leap 2 has gained significant traction in the healthcare sector, with specialized applications including:

  • Surgical Visualization: Integration of 3D medical imaging data during procedures
  • Medical Training: Immersive education for medical students and professionals
  • Rehabilitation: Applications like Strolll's Reality DTx® for Parkinson's patients
  • Remote Consultation: Enabling specialists to guide procedures from a distance[27]

Industrial and Manufacturing

The Magic Leap 2 is being used in industrial settings for:

  • Training: Immersive, hands-on training for complex procedures
  • Remote Assistance: Expert guidance for field technicians
  • Assembly and Maintenance: Step-by-step visual instructions overlaid on equipment
  • Quality Control: Augmented inspection processes with digital overlays[28]

Architecture and Design

In architecture and design fields, the Magic Leap 2 enables:

  • 3D Visualization: Life-sized models of buildings and products
  • Collaborative Design: Multiple users viewing and manipulating the same virtual models
  • On-Site Planning: Viewing planned structures in their intended location
  • Client Presentations: Immersive presentations of design concepts[29]

Enterprise Collaboration

The Magic Leap 2 enhances business collaboration through:

  • Remote Meetings: Shared virtual workspaces with 3D content
  • Data Visualization: Interactive display of complex data sets
  • Training: Immersive learning experiences
  • Product Development: Collaborative prototyping and review[30]

Reception and Reviews

The Magic Leap 2 has generally received positive reviews, particularly for its technical improvements over its predecessor and competitor devices. Reviewers have highlighted several strengths:

  • The expanded field of view compared to the original Magic Leap 1
  • The innovative Dynamic Dimming technology that improves visibility of virtual content
  • The comfortable, lightweight design suitable for extended professional use
  • The powerful processing capabilities for enterprise applications[31]

Some of the limitations noted by reviewers include:

  • The high price point, which puts it out of reach for many consumers
  • The enterprise-focused approach, which limits its appeal for personal use
  • Battery life constraints for all-day professional applications
  • The continued need for a tethered Compute Pack[32]

History and Development

The Magic Leap 2 represents a strategic pivot for Magic Leap following the commercial disappointment of the original Magic Leap 1. After raising significant venture capital (over $2.6 billion by 2020), the company struggled to meet sales expectations with its first consumer-oriented device.[33]

In May 2020, founder Rony Abovitz stepped down as CEO, and Peggy Johnson, a former Microsoft executive, took over leadership in July 2020. Under Johnson's direction, Magic Leap refocused its efforts on enterprise applications rather than the consumer market.[34]

The Magic Leap 2 was first announced in October 2021, with select customers gaining early access through a limited program. The device was officially released on September 30, 2022, initially available in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Saudi Arabia, with expansion to Japan and Singapore by the end of 2022.[35]

Images


See Also

References

  1. "Magic Leap 2 Starting Price Positioned Slightly Less Than HoloLens 2, Release Date Set for September". July 12, 2022. https://www.roadtovr.com/magic-leap-2-release-date-price-specs/.
  2. "Magic Leap 2". https://www.magicleap.com/magic-leap-2. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  3. "We Reviewed the Magic Leap 2 AR Headset for Business". https://arborxr.com/blog/magic-leap-2-review. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  4. "Buy the Magic Leap 2". https://vr-expert.com/ar-headsets/buy-magic-leap-2/. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  5. "Magic Leap Optics Technology: Advanced AR Solutions". https://www.magicleap.com/optics-technology. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  6. "Magic Leap 2: Full Specification - VRcompare". https://vr-compare.com/headset/magicleap2. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  7. "Fresh Details Revealed About Magic Leap 2 Technology". January 29, 2022. https://virtualrealitytimes.com/2022/01/29/fresh-details-revealed-about-magic-leap-2-technology/.
  8. "Magic Leap 2: Revolutionary Optics for Enterprise AR Solutions". https://www.magicleap.com/blog/magic-leap-2-optics-breakthroughs-empower-enterprise-ar. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  9. "Magic Leap 2 is the best AR headset yet, but will an enterprise focus save the company?". November 11, 2022. https://www.engadget.com/magic-leap-2-ar-headset-tech-dive-143046676.html.
  10. "Tons of New Magic Leap 2 Details Shed Light on Dynamic Dimming & More". January 27, 2022. https://www.roadtovr.com/magic-leap-2-details-dynamic-dimming-kevin-curtis/.
  11. "New Capabilities on Magic Leap 2 Increase Enterprise Collaboration and Productivity". August 3, 2023. https://www.magicleap.com/newsroom/new-capabilities-on-magic-leap-2-increase-enterprise-collaboration-and-productivity.
  12. "Magic Leap 2 Review - VRX by VR Expert". March 15, 2023. https://vrx.vr-expert.com/magic-leap-2-review/.
  13. "Magic Leap 2 Review - VRX by VR Expert". March 15, 2023. https://vrx.vr-expert.com/magic-leap-2-review/.
  14. "We Reviewed the Magic Leap 2 AR Headset for Business". https://arborxr.com/blog/magic-leap-2-review. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  15. "Magic Leap 2 Review - VRX by VR Expert". March 15, 2023. https://vrx.vr-expert.com/magic-leap-2-review/.
  16. "We Reviewed the Magic Leap 2 AR Headset for Business". https://arborxr.com/blog/magic-leap-2-review. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  17. "New Capabilities on Magic Leap 2 Increase Enterprise Collaboration and Productivity". August 3, 2023. https://www.magicleap.com/newsroom/new-capabilities-on-magic-leap-2-increase-enterprise-collaboration-and-productivity.
  18. "Magic Leap 2 Ecosystem". https://www.magicleap.com/legal/ecosystem. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  19. "Magic Leap 2 Devices". https://www.magicleap.com/legal/devices-ml2. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  20. "Magic Leap 2 Supplemental Terms and Conditions". https://www.magicleap.com/legal/sla-supplemental-terms-ml2. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  21. "New Capabilities on Magic Leap 2 Increase Enterprise Collaboration and Productivity". August 3, 2023. https://www.magicleap.com/newsroom/new-capabilities-on-magic-leap-2-increase-enterprise-collaboration-and-productivity.
  22. "Magic Leap 2 Pricing & Release Date Announced". July 14, 2022. https://80.lv/articles/magic-leap-2-pricing-release-date-announced/.
  23. "Revolutionize Healthcare with Magic Leap AR Technology". https://www.magicleap.com/ar-healthcare. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  24. "UL Solutions Issues First XR Equipment Safety Certification". UL Solutions. October 20, 2023. https://www.ul.com/news/ul-solutions-issues-first-virtual-augmented-and-mixed-reality-technology-equipment-safety.
  25. "Magic Leap 2 Product Specification – Enterprise". IMSYS VR. https://imsys-vr.de/wp-content/uploads/Product-Specification-Enterprise.pdf. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  26. "CES 2023: Magic Leap 2 AR headset will be the first of its kind to witness and assist medical miracles". January 6, 2023. https://www.sportskeeda.com/gaming-tech/news-ces-2023-magic-leap-2-ar-headset-will-be-first-of-its-kind-to-witness-assist-medical-miracles.
  27. "Magic Leap 2 Scores Major Standard for Medical Use - XR Today". June 5, 2023. https://www.xrtoday.com/augmented-reality/magic-leap-2-scores-major-standard-for-medical-use/.
  28. "We Reviewed the Magic Leap 2 AR Headset for Business". https://arborxr.com/blog/magic-leap-2-review. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  29. "Magic Leap Exhibiting at the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show, Showcasing Eight Partner and First Party AR Solutions on Magic Leap 2". https://www.magicleap.com/news/magic-leap-exhibiting-at-the-2023-consumer-electronics-show-showcasing-eight-partner-and-first-party-ar-solutions-on-magic-leap-2. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  30. "New Capabilities on Magic Leap 2 Increase Enterprise Collaboration and Productivity". August 3, 2023. https://www.magicleap.com/newsroom/new-capabilities-on-magic-leap-2-increase-enterprise-collaboration-and-productivity.
  31. "Magic Leap 2 Review: A High-Spec Enterprise AR Headset - XR Today". December 21, 2022. https://www.xrtoday.com/mixed-reality/magic-leap-2-review-smarter-and-sleeker/amp/.
  32. "Magic Leap 2 is the best AR headset yet, but will an enterprise focus save the company?". November 11, 2022. https://www.engadget.com/magic-leap-2-ar-headset-tech-dive-143046676.html.
  33. "Magic Leap - Wikipedia". https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Leap. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  34. "Magic Leap - Wikipedia". https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Leap. Retrieved May 2, 2025.
  35. "Magic Leap 2 Starting Price Positioned Slightly Less Than HoloLens 2, Release Date Set for September". July 12, 2022. https://www.roadtovr.com/magic-leap-2-release-date-price-specs/.