IonVR

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Intro

Working with Intel RealSense depth sensing technology, the IonVR headset looks like an ordinary 3D printed prototype where you strap your smartphone to a pair of lenses until you realized that within the hardware is a patent-pending technology that greatly reduces VR motion sickness.

Priced at $229 and with over 1,000 pre-order, it is scheduled for release in late 2016 but a quick check on IonVR’s website does not show any indication of the unit being released at the moment of writing. Taking a leaf from Google Cardboard, IonVR brings the concept of VR-on-your-mobile further by making the headset compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows operating users.

Features

The game changer that greatly stands out for IonVR headset is its patent-pending MotionSync technology. The hardware in the headset is capable of greatly reducing distortion and latency by making use of advanced optics technology and on-board processing.

The IonVR headset also features a modular design where the user will only need to replace the pluggable holder as newer smartphones are introduced into the market.

Hardware

Spotting a 3 point strap on an innovative 3D printed modular design, the IonVR supports smartphone with screen size ranging from 4.6” to 6” and with a minimum 720p resolution.

It works on 2 AAA batteries and is specified to last for over 300 hours of continuous use. It is also a notable fact that the IonVR does not communicate with the smartphone on any level and doesn’t drain the smartphone’s battery in the process.

Technical Specifications

HEADSET

  • Weight: 12 ounces
  • Dimensions: 7.3 in x 5.5 in x 3.6 in

OPTICS

  • * Less than 5% distortion
  • * Less than 100 microns lateral color
  • * Works with Super Amoled and IPS displays
  • * Adjustable IPD

DISPLAY

  • Field of View: Varies by phone and screen size, 80-100 degrees
  • Eye Relief: 15 mm eye relief for glasses

SMARTPHONE REQUIREMENTS

  • Screen size: 4.6″-6″
  • Resolution: Min. 720p resolution, 1080p recommended, 2k ideal
  • Operating System: iOS, Android, Windows
  • Phone must have an accelerometer

POWER REQUIREMENTS

  • Batteries: 2 AAA Batteries (Lithium recommended for weight)
  • Battery Life: Over 300 hours of continuous use

Software

IonVR supports

  • Google Cardboard
  • Drovious Dive
  • Project Tango
  • Intel RealSense Smartphone Developer Kit.

Background

IonVR was founded by Dan Thurber, an internet security expert who found his interest in VR by experimenting on Oculus DK1 and Brooke Linville, a business marketing expert who brings a decade of experience to the company.

The IonVR headset was created from Dan Thurber’s foresight of the potential of VR beyond gaming and the recognition of inherent problems with VR.

References