Panasonic and it's subsidiary Shiftall have announced 3 new immersive technologies in a recent press release; the google shaped VR headset MeganeX, the sound suppression bluetooth microphone mutalk, and the immersion enhancing heating/cooling element, the PebbleFeel.
The MeganeX is a very promising looking high resolution (5.2k, 120hz) and light weight (250g) compact headset that appears to be based on the designs Panasonic has been showcasing for the past 1-2 years. It's SteamVR compatible and also appears to include an XR1 chipset for standalone applications. Here are some of the specifications from the presser:
- Display : 1.3inch OLED Microdisplay 5.2K(2,560×2,560 per eye) , 10bit HDR / 120Hz
- Weight : Approx. 250g (8.8oz) *Without cable
- Processor : Snapdragon® XR1 platform
- Tracking system : 6DoF, camera based inside-out head tracking
- Connection : DisplayPort Alternate Mode on USB-C or DisplayPort + USB2.0*
*Connect with the interface conversion box(included to package) - Estimated Price : Less than $900
The mutalk is something we at VR Crashed are very excited about. Some older readers may recall the "cone of silence" from classic spy comedy "Get Smart".
We've all been in environments where we don't want our conversations overheard, but would love to be able to speak freely and clearly to the intended audience. The mutalk is said to effectively prevent sounds from leaking into the exterior enviroment. In addition to VR applications such as using VRChat at night in shared accommodations or close quarters, other touted applications such as having a more private conversation in a crowded Cafe are listed. This may also become very popular in countries like Japan, where neighboring apartment units typically offer little soundproofing.
Specifications from the Press Release:
- Battery Life : 10 hours+
- Charging method : USB Type-C
- System Requirements : Windows/macOS/iOS/iPadOS/Android
- Connection : Bluetooth® v4.2 BR/EDR(HSP, HFP1.7)
- Estimated Price : Around $200
For more insight into why this type of technology matters, please see our recent article asking for methods of silent voice communication;
VR/AR features that we need - Subvocalization voice input
The 3rd interesting technology announced is the PebbleFeel.
This device uses heating and cooling to enhance immersion in VR environments. By strategic placements at the base of the neck, and held in place by the specialized strap, the PebbleFeel is said to be compatible with immersive metaverse style applications such as VRChat.
Specifications from the Press Release:
- Heat & Cool plate temperature : Min. 9°C(48°F), Max. 42°C(107°F)
- *in a 25℃(77°F) environment
- Use per charge : In “Medium” cooling mode: Approx. 15 hours* In “Medium” heating mode: Approx. 25 hours*
- *When using a 10,000mAh portable charger.
- Recommended operating temperature : 5°C to 40°C(41°F to 104°F)
- Weight : Approx. 60g (2.1oz)
- System Requirements : Windows(SteamVR)/iOS/iPadOS/Android
- Connection : Bluetooth® v5.0 Low Energy
- Estimated Price : Around $200
Source: Shiftall Press Release