The world of virtual reality is buzzing with a surprising new entry, and it's coming from an unexpected source! Sharp, a brand renowned for its electronics, is venturing into the VR arena with a unique crowdfunding campaign in Japan. But here's the twist: their VR headset, Xrostella VR1, evokes a retro feel with its slim and lightweight design.
The Xrostella VR1 Unveiled:
Sharp's VR ambitions were initially showcased at CES 2023 with a prototype, but it's now ready for the spotlight. At the Metaverse Expo in Japan, Sharp unveiled an updated version, as Gizmodo Japan revealed. The company is gearing up for a crowdfunding campaign on Green Funding, aiming to bring this VR headset to the Japanese market.
A Lightweight VR Experience:
The Xrostella VR1 is a mere 198g, boasting a 'glasses-like' design, according to Sharp's Japanese press release. It connects to Windows 11 PCs or select smartphones via a wired connection, with confirmed compatibility with the AQUOS sense10. The headset features dual LCD displays with a 2,160 x 2,160 resolution per eye, running at a smooth 90Hz. And here's where it gets interesting: it utilizes a 'pancake lens' for a 90-degree field of view, a feature that might spark some debate among VR enthusiasts.
Controversial Design Choices:
The headset includes inside-out 6DOF tracking and color passthrough cameras, but the controllers seem to be a standard 'Touch' design, a stark contrast to Sharp's recent haptic glove prototype. And while the adjustable interpupillary distance and diopter settings are a welcome feature for nearsighted users, the display resolution leaves something to be desired, falling slightly short of the Meta Quest 3.
A Lightweight Headset, But at What Cost?
The lightweight design is intriguing, but it raises questions about comfort during extended use. The ~198g weight might feel substantial on the nose without proper weight distribution or a sturdy strap system. This design choice is reminiscent of older VR headsets like the HTC Vive Flow, which also faced comfort challenges. And with the crowdfunding price yet to be revealed, Gizmodo Japan speculates it could be pricier than the Quest 3.
A Niche Market Strategy:
Despite the growing competition in the thin and light PC VR segment, Sharp's headset might find its niche. With devices like Bigscreen Beyond 2, Pimax's Dream Air SE, and Shiftall's MeganeX VR headset, the market is heating up. However, Sharp's focus on the Japanese market and its strong brand presence there could be a strategic move. Sharp holds a significant smartphone market share in Japan, and this VR headset might appeal to consumers who trust the brand.
The Bottom Line:
Sharp's Xrostella VR1 is a fascinating entry into the VR space, offering a lightweight design with some trade-offs. While it may not be a mainstream hit, it could find success in Japan, leveraging the brand's local presence. But will it be enough to compete in the evolving VR landscape? That's a question that only time, and the Japanese market, can answer. And this is the part most people miss—sometimes, a product's success isn't just about specs and features but also about understanding the local market dynamics.
