TikTok Parent Company ByteDance Launches Mixed Reality Headset Title To Fight Meta – Yanko Design

Meta has control over social media as well as virtual headsets, but not for long because TikTok’s parent company ByteDance is coming to the hardware space with its first hybrid headset. The maker behind the world’s most popular (even polarizing) social media app has just acquired the XR Pico company, and plans to launch a headset under its new brand. found. The Pico 4S (or 4 Ultra in other countries) is an improved version of its predecessor, mainly with front-facing cameras on the headset, redesigned controls, and wrist-band sensors. which are worn for the unruly hand. tracking. How the Pico 4S ties into ByteDance’s broader approach to cornering the VR market is unclear, but then again, Spatial Computing was all the rage last year. Does it mean that TikTok is more immersive? Or maybe ByteDance has other plans…

Developer: ByteDance

One of the most significant changes to the Pico 4S is the inclusion of stereoscopic front cameras. This update is likely to improve the pass-through experience, allowing for deeper and more responsive mixed reality interaction. The cameras are housed in a slightly improved front glass design, which still retains the familiar look of the Pico 4. The battery is on the back, a feature that is praised for improving weight distribution and compensation during extended use, is still part of the plan. This thoughtful approach to ergonomics, combined with a new camera system, shows ByteDance’s commitment to improve the user experience without changing too much what worked well in the previous model.

Another addition to the Pico 4S is a set of two wrist straps designed to improve hand tracking. These cables, equipped with sensors, are expected to provide flexibility and accuracy in situations where hand-held controllers may not be necessary or desirable. The wrist straps, which appear to be detachable, add a new level to the versatility of the device. This feature, along with the same ring-less controls as the Pico 4, suggests that the Pico 4S will be suitable for a wide range of applications, from gaming to to many mixed reality jobs.

Under the hood, the Pico 4S is believed to be powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset, the same processor found in the Meta Quest 3. This is a notable upgrade from the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 used in the Pico 4, which promises improved performance. and skills. Coupled with 12 GB of RAM, the Pico 4S is expected to handle demanding real-world experiences with ease. Display specifications, which may be the same as Pico 4, include two 2.56-inch 2160 x 2160 LCD screens with a refresh rate of up to 90 Hz. Motorized inter-pupillary distance adjustment, a feature that facilitates individual user experience, is also expected to return, improving the user experience.

Despite these advances, the overall design of the Pico 4S remains simple and light, ensuring that it will continue to be a convenient device for extended periods of time. The integration of spatial sound through built-in speakers and continuous inter-pupillary conduction are complementary features to the simple design of the earphone. While the Pico 4 initially faced limited availability outside of Europe and East Asia, its positive reception and increased availability suggest that the Pico 4S could once again see a wider release, perhaps entered the competitive US market.

The Pico 4S is poised to challenge the Meta Quest 3 (and even the rumored Quest 3s) with its combination of improved design, improved technical capabilities, and thoughtful features aimed at improving user comfort and collaboration. As the mixed reality market continues to grow, the competition between these two headsets will likely drive more innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers looking for unified and accessible experiences. of truth.

Images via OnLeaks & AndroidHeadline