Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality will become a key part of entertainment within the next few decades.
We've already seen a tremendous development from the beginnings of VR just a few years ago.
The graphics are constantly evolving, more headsets and games are being developed, and the whole VR experience is starting to feel more "real".
But there is still one thing that keeps Virtual / Augmented Reality from going mainstream: It's the accessibility.
Most VR/AR headsets are very expensive, although more affordable alternatives like Playstation VR and Microsoft VR have already been launched.
But still, most people don't own a VR/AR headset yet because the gadgets are still quite expensive.
What if you could integrate your iPhone into an AR headset that only costs $99 ?
Introducing: The Mira Prism Headset:
Mira Prism
The Mira Prism headset is the most affordable alternative to experience Augmented Reality at home.
Normally, Virtual / Augmented reality headsets can be priced anywhere between $300 and $3,000 - but the Mira Prisms costs only $99.
That's because the headset doesn't use any electronics but has an iPhone at its core, and the display as part of the screen.
The concept is similar to that of Google cardboard, where users also strap their iPhone on to the cardboard headset to experience Augmented Reality.
"The industry is getting really interested in this area. There doesn't seem like there is a good low-cost way to learn about and experiment and figure out why AR really matters. And that's what really excited us about Mira."-Omar Hamoui, partner at Sequoia Capital
How does it work?
First, the user needs to download the Mira app on his iPhone. The phone screen then reflects onto the clear lense that has been custom-molded.
As a result, the user can view the world around him - but with a digital layer of virtual reality on top.
Stereoscopic 3D renders then float in fron of the user, on top of his real-world surroundings.
The sharp, colorful images are projected from the phone onto the headset and create the augmented reality effect.
Phone-based AR (like Apple's ARKit) has already been released, but now Mira aims to take this technology to the next level and see how it works on headsets too.
"This is really a vehicle to deliver our software platform and the content we're cocreating. It's all about creating an accessible solution that people aren't scared of — not putting a big machine on their head that costs multiples of $1,000."-Matt Stern, Mira COO
Features
Since the headset itself doesn't contain any electronics, it's wireless and lightweight - but of course you have to add the weight of the iPhone.
The display is positioned at 60 degrees to offer the best AR experience.
For now, the headset can only be used with iPhone 6 and newer - this is to enable the maximum resolution of 1334 × 750 pixel.
Remote Control
The Mira Prism headset comes with a remote control that can be used as a mouse and keyboard.
In specific applications, the remote control can also be used as paintbrush, fishing rod, steering wheel, laserpointer or magic wand.
There is also a launchpad in the kit, which acts as focus point for some applications.
It looks similar to the board of a board game, and product pictures show that it could be used for soccer- or skill games.
Multiple viewers and players
A unique feature of the Mira Prism is the "Spectator mode":
It allows others to see what the user with the headset is seeing through their own smartphone in real time (without the need of a headset). That way, users can take pictures and videos of their AR experience, and share them online - an important detail that could make the headset go viral, like it happened with the AR game Pokémon Go.
In the future, it will even be possible to link multiple headsets together and enjoy the same AR experience with your friends!
Would you buy this $99 Augemented Reality Headset?
© Sirwinchester