Vivo Vision MR headset emerges as Apple Vision Pro rival
Vivo has unveiled its Vision MR headset in China, positioning it as a contender against established mixed-reality devices from Apple and Meta. Weighing just 14 ounces, the headset is noticeably lighter and more compact than its rivals, while also promising advanced display performance and comfort. The product has been presented as a Discovery Edition, available for reviewers and in Vivo stores, though it is not yet on general sale.
The launch comes at a time when mixed reality remains outside the mainstream, despite high-profile efforts from major technology companies. Apple’s Vision Pro, although innovative, carries a steep price tag that limits its appeal beyond enthusiasts and professionals. Meta’s Quest range, though more affordable, is targeted largely at gaming communities. With its new device, Vivo seeks to position itself differently, aiming at both entertainment and productivity users, while keeping pricing competitive, although final figures have not yet been disclosed.
At the core of the Vision MR is a dual micro-OLED display system with a combined resolution of 8K. Each eye benefits from 3840 X 3552 pixels, exceeding the Apple Vision Pro’s specifications. Vivo also claims strong colour accuracy, with coverage of 94 per cent of the DCI-P3 colour space and Delta E values below two, which should enhance viewing comfort and realism. The Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset powers the system, offering a balance of performance and efficiency tailored for extended use.
A significant focus of the new design is weight reduction. At around 40 per cent lighter than Apple’s Vision Pro, the Vivo headset stands out as one of the lightest in its category. The use of different materials and a compact frame measuring 3.27 by 1.57 inches contributes to this result. A ring strap on the rear provides additional stability, and Vivo highlights improved comfort for prolonged sessions. Eye-tracking technology delivers 1.5 degrees of precision, while a 175-degree vertical tracking range allows natural hand and finger gestures, all facilitated through its OriginOS Vision system.
The headset introduces the concept of a virtual IMAX-sized display, capable of expanding to a 118-foot view. Applications extend beyond cinema-like experiences and gaming, covering productivity tasks such as managing multiple windows and supporting spatial photos and videos. Latency is claimed to be particularly low, measured at 13 milliseconds, which could help reduce motion sickness and enhance responsiveness.
Initial hands-on assessments published on Chinese platforms suggest that the lighter build is indeed one of the device’s main strengths. The use of an external battery, similar to Apple’s design, allows the main headset to remain smaller and lighter. Users requiring vision correction are able to attach magnetic lenses. Eleven cameras are integrated, with seven positioned on the front, two beneath, and two inside, offering tracking capabilities that match most current industry standards. While camera quality is reported as good, low-light environments appear to generate more noise.
One limitation noted is that the supported interpupillary distance of 57 to 71 millimetres is narrower than Apple’s broader range of 51 to 75 millimetres, which may affect comfort for some users. The sound system has also been described as less impressive than Apple’s, though physical buttons on the headset provide convenient volume adjustment.
Despite these compromises, the Vision MR has been praised for its 90Hz refresh rate and 100-nit brightness display, delivering a viewing quality likened to high-end cinema experiences. The headset integrates well with spatial computing functions, providing immersive 3D environments and responsive hand tracking. Importantly, Vivo is also prioritising 3D gaming. With support for a dedicated controller and compatibility with Steam for VR game streaming, the headset demonstrates potential as a platform for both casual and serious gamers.
Early indications suggest that Vivo’s strategy rests on three pillars: lower pricing, improved comfort, and an emphasis on gaming. While Apple leads in terms of ecosystem integration and premium build, Vivo may carve out an advantage by appealing to a wider audience seeking an accessible, lightweight alternative. If final pricing aligns with expectations, the Vision MR could represent a pivotal step in bringing mixed reality closer to everyday users.
