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VR headsets, mixed reality, or sticky gadgets, CES 2023 was full of new interest in the world of metaverse technology.
This year’s event was particularly exciting, boasting many interesting ideas and diverse presentations. Here are our picks for the new VR headsets, AR glasses and more at the event.
HTC Vive XR Elite
HTC has upped its game with the Vive XR Elite, challenging the Meta’s Quest Pro for the title of best versatile VR headset. Like the Meta, HTC is one of the few VR manufacturers with a significant library of standalone VR games and apps, reducing the effort required to get started in VR.
Base stations are not required when tracking inside the headset and connecting to a VR-capable PC is optional. HTC hasn’t matched all of the Quest Pro’s features, but you can save $400 by opting for the Vive XR Elite for $1,100.
Check out our Quest Pro vs Vive XR Elite comparison for more details.
Sony PSVR 2
The biggest use case for VR outside of high-end simulation is gaming, and as the maker of the PlayStation console, Sony is well-positioned to compete in the VR gaming marketplace. The Sony PSVR is on our list of the best VR headsets, but like many older systems, it can’t match the latest offerings.
Sony has unveiled the new version of the PSVR 2, a $550 upgrade that could be the headset of choice for PlayStation fans. It requires a PlayStation 5 console, but looks like it’ll cost a cool $1,100. Every headset and controller has been upgraded, bringing an experience that rivals the PCVR system at a much lower price point.
Shiftall MeganeX
Shiftall’s MeganeX is another thin but powerful VR headset that will ship in 2023. Like high-end headsets like the Meta and HTC, the Shiftall uses pancake lenses, but boosts image quality with higher-resolution and faster refresh rate MicroOLD displays.
Equally interesting are accessories like Shiftall’s FlipVR controllers that snap into your hand, leaving your hands free to grab your smartphone or a glass of water.
Shiftall Mutalk is exactly what it sounds like, a VR headset that lets you shout out loud in games and make those stuck in the real world jealous of all the fun you’re having.
Pimax crystal
Pimax Crystal was announced in June 2022, but the company’s promising history has led to some skepticism about new products. First impressions of Pimax Crystal match the claims.
This high quality headset beats the specs of most other VR headsets. This isn’t new for Pimax, as its 5K Super made it to our list of best VR headsets.
The Pimax Crystal starts at $1,600 and is about to be released. With an eye-catching 2,880-by-2,880 pixels, updated aspherical lenses, local dimming and a 160Hz refresh rate, the display should be placed near the top of the list of best PCVR monitors. If quality control and software reliability are matched, Pimax Crystal will be a great value headset.
Advances in AR glasses
Augmented reality is limited to viewing the window provided by your smartphone, but that could change very soon as AR glasses become a reality. While Google Glass was a little too advanced for mass consumption in 2013, we’re more than ready for AR glasses in 2023.
Companies like Vuzix and Lumus are leading the way with advanced waveguide technology that powers AR glasses, allowing you to stay connected to what’s happening online without having to connect to the real world around you.
Vuzix Ultralite is the ultra thin and lightweight design for AR glasses that should be available this year. The Ultralite pairs with your smartphone and brings you notifications, directions and more via a bright, clear green display.
Looking ahead, Lumus showcased a prototype of its Z-Lens technology that delivers a bright, full-color display in lightweight AR glasses. The finished product is still a few years away and this early demo requires cable.
AR will begin to make an impact in the near future and may be the missing cog to speed up widespread adoption of the future of the Internet.
Fringe VR technology
CES brings a lot of fringe technology, and there are many interesting products that can be seen in the markets. While these may not grow to the level of popularity that Meta Quest 2 has, there is room for creativity in virtual reality.
VR simulation is always interesting, and there are a number of haptic products designed to signal to the wearer that a virtual object has been touched or hit in a VR game. The evo haptic shirt includes electrodes to deliver controlled electrical vibrations for more realistic sensations. You can see how YouTube channel RenderedReality responded to the experience.
Translating into a more relaxed VR experience, the Sol Reader is a unique headset that features an e-color display. It is specially designed for reading e-books while sleeping. A simple remote control allows you to turn pages and navigate menus without having to lift your hands. It’s an unexpected goal for a VR headset, but it sounds welcome to readers and could be a game changer for those with limited mobility. YouTuber Brad Lynch usually focuses on high-end VR headsets, but he spent some time admiring this unlikely product.
CES embraces VR and Metraverse.
While VR and the Metaverse have been the targets of some media’s derision, it was exciting to see CES embrace this new technology with open arms. A good example is HoloRide, which offers VR in cars. Although not everyone is ready to experience such a confusing feeling, it seems like a wild idea.
Overall, CES attendees were eager to learn more about the new VR and metaverse technology, whether it’s coming soon or just a preview of what to expect in a few more years.
Editors’ recommendations
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