IonVR

IonVR is a smartphone VR headset. It has custom electronics in it.^[1]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

IonVR supports

Background[edit]

IonVR was founded by Dan Thurber, who found his interest in VR by experimenting on Oculus DK1.

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[edit]

↑ James, Paul (2016-01-05). "ionVR is a Smartphone VR Headset That Aims to Kill Latency". https://www.roadtovr.com/ionvr-is-a-smartphone-vr-headset-that-aims-to-kill-latency/.

[p571-1] James, Paul (2016-01-05). "ionVR is a Smartphone VR Headset That Aims to Kill Latency". https://www.roadtovr.com/ionvr-is-a-smartphone-vr-headset-that-aims-to-kill-latency/.

[1]