Meta Quest Logitech MX Ink pen gives artists a new MR tool
Platforms for mixed reality, or spatial computing as Apple refers to it, attempt to merge digital things into the physical environment in a smooth and seamless manner, however this illusion immediately crumbles when one tries to use those virtual parts directly. Sure, it could seem a bit natural to pinch the corner of floating windows or touch on buttons in midair, but using only two wands in each hand to create content—especially 2D and 3D objects—makes it less credible. Because the stylus is so precise and comfortable to use—almost like holding a pencil or paintbrush—digital artists and designers have been using it for decades. It was only a matter of time before the same gadget entered the realm of mixed reality, and that is precisely what the Logitech MX Ink seeks to do in the virtual world.
Though that description is a little oversimplified, the Logitech MX Ink is essentially a pen made to function in virtual three-dimensional space, and its implications might change the way people live. It makes designers feel more like they’re playing games than painting or sculpting since they no longer have to feel self-conscious about waving about a thick wand. Now that they have access to a more practical and user-friendly tool for moving about in mixed reality, artists, designers, and sculptors may increase both the quantity and quality of their output. Drawing on air may still feel strange at first since the MX Ink is heavier and larger than other styluses—it resembles a 3D printing pen more than an Apple Pencil—but it’s still much superior than using your finger to sketch.
The fact that Logitech’s approach works in both 2D and 3D areas gives it a little more flair. The latter suggests that one may still scribble on an even surface and have the exact same haptics and pressure responsiveness, much as with a Wacom stylus, for instance. This implies that you may quickly transfer a paper drawing or design to a three-dimensional environment so that it can be further detailed. Alternatively, you may create works of art on a real canvas without really making any marks on the paper.
Although the MX Ink is a stand-alone device, Logitech is also providing various add-ons to lessen the inconvenience of using mixed reality at work. The MX Ink can really function on most flat surfaces, but the MX Mat provides a low-friction surface for 2D stylus sketching. You can start sketching with the gadget by simply lifting it off the dock and placing it back without worrying that it won’t be charged and ready for your next work session thanks to the MX Inkwell, a stand and wireless charging station. The pen will need to be charged via a USB-C connection in the absence of the MX Inkwell, and Logitech does not even provide a cable in the package.
This new creative tool, despite its fascinating name, is limited to usage with the Meta Quest 2 and Quest 3 headsets; the Quest Pro is not included in this list. You can connect the MX Ink and easily switch between it and the standard Quest controllers without having to change anything since this is supposedly the first time the Quest headsets accept more than two linked controllers at the same time. September marks the official launch of the Logitech MX Ink, which will retail at $129.99.
