Oppo reveals a prototype AR headset at Shenzhen developer event

Oppo is best known for its smartphones but it looks set to branch out into new markets with the unveiling of its first AR headset. Although only in prototype form, the headset looked enough like a finished product to get a sense of the direction Oppo is taking. The primarily app developer-focus audience was also treated to a live demo that gave them a sense of what the headset will be capable of should it eventually launch officially as a shipping product.

While VR headsets have had mixed success to date, AR headsets may hold more overall appeal, partly because they help to give the user a sense of the world around them. VR headsets, while more immersive, are also more prone to giving users potential motion sickness even though those effects are increasingly being minimized with higher refresh and frame rates. Most notably, Apple skipped the VR fad and has poured its energy into developing an AR headset set for as 2022 or 2023 launch suggesting this could be the way to go.

Oppo didn’t reveal the full specifications of its new AR headset, but it does appear to sport a wireless 5G connection in line with the company’s 5G focus at the event. It did, however, reveal that the headset could sport up to four cameras comprised of two fisheye lenses, one HD camera and a single ToF sensor. While Apple’s headset could be targeted to CAD and the professional audience, Oppo looks to have an entertainment experience in mind with the planned launch of an AR content and game service to support the new platform.