Sony seems to join the VR race with a standalone VR headset.
When it comes to innovation, Sony has been a leading force in the electronics industry. Never shy of experimenting with cutting-edge technology, the company has brought us several gadgets and devices that took the world by storm. Just last week, Sony hosted an online event called Sony Technology Day, where they revealed information about not one, not two, but eight new technologies that are going to bring in another paradigm shift. The innovations, as per the company’s statement, revolve around the theme of “Technology that inspires emotion”. And it seems as though the company is making serious progress with virtual reality.
The highlight of the announcement, however, is the much-hyped VR headset prototype. During the section “Pursuit of Reality”, Sony detailed an original VR headset teasing a bunch of exciting features. It is reported that the device will support 4K resolution per eye through a powerful OLED Microdisplay. This cutting-edge technology removes all the pixelations that could arise and subsequently, delivers a crystal-clear image. In the video release for the new VR headset, the company also stated that the device will change the way we approach virtual reality.
In the video, one could see the headset in action as a user examines the interiors of a vintage car wearing the prototype. As she leans into the car’s seat, one would see incredibly finer details in the texture of the upholstery, the dashboard, and the steering wheel. This is achieved by a VR head-mounted display (HMD) that reflects a 3D virtual space powered by a high resolution 4K image for one eye, and 8K for both eyes. According to Sony, such a high-quality image is achieved through miniaturisation and multi-pixel via fine processing as well as an advanced packaging technology. The latter is cultivated through the development of and manufacturing of CMOS image sensors and OLED Microdisplay, along with cutting-edge circuit technology.
In addition to the improved display, the company also revealed that the VR headset is going to bring along major updates in latency. This is reportedly an effort to ensure a more comfortable in-headset user experience. This could also potentially be a major step-up in comfort for users with conditions like motion sickness and vertigo.
The demo video indicated that the processing time of the VR headset has been reduced by effectively decreasing the latency throughout the system. Thanks to the successful integration of multiple sensors, this incredible feat has been achieved after all. According to the company, users watching the VR content via the headset can now experience HD images in real-time in accordance with their own head movements. As a result, it would deliver a more comfortable experience that is less likely to make you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
Apart from the VR headset, Sony stated that the OLED Microdisplay is expected to revolutionise an array of sectors. Beyond its industrial applications, it may also potentially be expanded to the entertainment industry.
Besides, there is also an ongoing rumour that Sony is going to release PlayStation VR 2 in 2022.
