HTC’s next-generation headset project, Project Proton, is revealed, will launch two lightweight XR headsets

While HTC is currently betting its VR future on the Vive Cosmos, it has also been working on a next-generation lightweight headset called “Project Proton,” CEO Yves Maitre said. would be “very, very close to regular glasses”. But judging from the renderings received by foreign media, this statement is controversial, but the device in the renderings is obviously more compact than the VR devices currently on the market.

In a statement sent to foreign media, an HTC representative said: “Project Proton is a prototype for HTC Vive’s future XR glasses-like device, and we hope to hear feedback from the community as we continue to work on the product.” No information on device-related specs has been made public, but the Proton Project does suggest HTC intends to shift its focus to MR use cases and include 5G connectivity (both internally and externally) in its future headsets.

Project Proton covers two device form factors: a “Proton AIO” all-in-one headset, and a split headset called “Proton Glass.” On closer inspection, both headsets appear to feature front-facing cameras, which are likely to enable inside-out tracking, although it’s also possible that HTC will use them for see-through. The lens section looks very slim, so both headsets should be much lighter than the current device. It’s unclear how much of an impact such a design would have on the field of view.

Unlike the Vive Focus, the Proton AIO’s processing unit appears to be located on the back of the headband, which further reduces the size of the device while enabling better weight distribution. There are also two parts that are likely to be headphones hovering over the user’s ear. The current concern is that while the processing unit is behind a person’s head and provides a lot of cushioning, after an active experience, it is likely to cause trouble for sweaty users (such as your real users). Hopefully HTC will find a way to alleviate this problem.

As for Proton Glass, it’s designed to be powered by an external processing module (like a smartphone), which is why it can be designed to resemble thick-rimmed glasses. Think of it as a direct competitor to Nreal Light, but it offers users a VR experience for a more immersive view. Due to the lack of speakers from the looks of it, it’s unclear where the audio is coming from.

This is a promising path for HTC, even if there are still many unanswered questions. We’re still not sure if the modular Vive Cosmos line will succeed in helping HTC fight the increasingly diverse Oculus Quest and the mighty Valve Index, but with the new portability and features in Project Proton, it’ll be great if HTC wins out in the end interesting.