MobileTechTalk Vuzix specialise in delivering products that use integrated visual aids to enhance the wearers experience of gaming, recording media or simply consuming it. At IFA 2016 we got a look and a play with the Vuzix iWear Video Headphones.
Not VR, But RL
The Vuzix iWear Video Headphones are an interesting concept. Aside from VR being big business currently, Vuzix have instead looked to deliver a portable element to gaming with their iWear headset, whilst still allowing an element of VR within the product itself. The iWear product, put simply, delivers up to a 125″ equivalent screen directly to a users’ eyes via the visor’s dual 720p displays. Additionally the device is equipped with built-in headphones that sounds great and offer up noise cancellation as well as deep rumbling lows for the 40mm drivers – perfect for gaming. This unit allows you to be present in the real world and get immersed in your game of choice without having to worry about VR side effects.
We took it for a spin on the Playstation 4, and were suitably impressed. No motion sickness, none of the disorientation associated with some VR headset; no, this was a different proposition. The fact that this unit simply uses a standard HDMI output and can working on batteries for up to 3 hours, it makes it the perfect companion for trips where taking your unweildy, but awesome gaming monitor would be a little tricky, but your relatively small console might just fit in a bag neatly.
This unit can be hooked up to a BluRay player, DVD player, games console, tablet, phone, and practically anything else you can get an HDMI connection to. The display quality is great despite it being 720p, and the headphones really help with the immersion.
That’s not to say this can’t be used for VR, not at all. There is integration head tracking to allow compatible games to deliver additional immersion and functionality. This has been built alongside existing stalwart engines such as Unity 3D and as such has a wealth of titles it is compatible with.
Specifications
- 16:9 125″ equivalent 720p display
- Built in Li-Ion batteries delivering up to 3 hours of continuous use
- 55 degrees of diagonal FoV in 16:9
- 24 bit colour
- Portable and collapsible frame
- USB microphone and audio support
- Optional AR add on
Learn more about the Vuzix iWear Video Headphones here and check out Vuzix’s additional products.
Stay tuned for a review on this product soon!
