Recently, Qualcomm joined Samsung and Google in the tech advancements race, announcing their latest creation, the second-generation Snapdragon XR2+ spatial computing platform. This innovative chip sets the stage for the development of top-tier mixed reality (MR), virtual reality (VR), and smart glasses devices. The XR2+ Gen 2 chip, an improvement over the XR2 Gen2 used in the Quest 3, boasts the capability to render high-resolution images, challenging Apple’s Vision Pro headset.
Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 Features
The Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip features 4.3K resolution per eye and a 90fps refresh rate, better than the XR2 Gen2’s 3K. It supports devices with 12+ cameras and advanced AI. This allows accurate tracking of movements and surroundings, merging real and digital worlds for immersive, easy-to-navigate experiences. In comparison to its predecessor, the latest Snapdragon XR2+ showcases substantial performance enhancements. Its GPU and CPU frequencies have seen increases of 15% and 20%, respectively. The chip also supports up to 12 parallel cameras and possesses potent AI capabilities for tracking movements and surroundings, further bridging the gap between physical and digital realms.
Qualcomm’s vice president of technology, Si Hongguo, highlighted the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 potential to significantly enhance XR’s productivity and entertainment aspects, promising a transformative user experience. Qualcomm, in partnership with Goertek, has launched a new mixed reality and VR reference design. This includes Tobii’s eye-tracking tech. It offers two options: a 3K single-eye display with Snapdragon XR2, and a 4K version with Snapdragon XR2+. This aims to speed up product releases for OEM manufacturers.
Qualcomm’s growing partnerships include collaborations with at least five VR manufacturers, such as HTC, Samsung, and Google. However, the launch dates for these new products remain under wraps. In contrast, Google’s internal AR team is grappling with challenges, and Samsung is experiencing hardware development delays. Apple, on the other hand, might soon release its Vision Pro headset.
Updates from Samsung, Qualcomm, and Google may be just around the corner. Samsung’s upcoming Unpacked conference in San Jose, California, only two weeks away, might offer the perfect platform for them to showcase a product that competes with Apple’s Vision Pro, especially given its proximity to Apple’s Cupertino headquarters.
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