Somnium Space, a renowned tech company based in Prague, Czechia, has started rolling out its latest PC VR headset, the Somnium VR1, across the US market. Alongside this launch, they’ve streamlined their product offerings, narrowing it down to three consumer-centric versions, and have hinted at upcoming price hikes for their premium models.
Previously, Somnium VR1 came in several configurations—like the Striker, Classic, Specter, and Translucent Editions—but these have now been phased out. The Classic Edition, which was their budget-friendly option priced at €1,900 (around $1,980 USD) and didn’t feature eye-tracking, is no longer available. Its place is taken by the Visionary Edition, which does include eye-tracking capabilities and is priced at €2,499 (about $2,600 USD). It’s worth noting these prices exclude local taxes.
In light of these changes, Somnium Space reassured those who’ve already purchased the now-discontinued models that their orders remain secure and delivery will proceed as originally planned. The company emphasized that owning one of these versions will make the user’s headset particularly exclusive.
The rationale Somnium Space provides for these adjustments is to enhance the efficiency and focus on delivering the Visionary, Ultimate, and Titan Editions with urgency and quality. This shift aims to uphold the high standards their customers are accustomed to.
However, prices for these VR1 models are set to rise. While the exact numbers remain undisclosed, the current prices will be maintained until January 16, 2025. Following that date, the new pricing strategy will be unveiled.
Here’s where the current product lineup stands:
- Visionary Edition (VR with eye-tracking): €2,499 (~$2,600 USD)
- Titan Edition (VR with eye and hand tracking): €2,899 (~$3,020 USD)
- Ultimate Edition (VR with eye and hand tracking, plus MR passthrough): €3,499 (~$3,659 USD)
- Military Edition details remain unspecified.
Somnium Space acknowledges the complex nature of manufacturing these headsets, which has driven up production costs. Despite these challenges, they assert a firm stance on not compromising on quality, justifying the upcoming price increases.
Orders placed now are expected for delivery between February and March 2025 in regions including Europe, the UK, and the US. As the year progresses, Somnium Space plans to offer spare parts such as optical modules, main boards, electronics, cables, screens, and more for the Somnium VR1.
Somnium VR1 Specifications:
- Display: QLED Mini-LED Fast LCD with a resolution of 2,880 × 2,880 per eye
- Field of View: 130° horizontal and 105° vertical, potentially reaching up to 140° horizontally
- Refresh Rate: Options include 72 Hz, 90 Hz, and experimental upgrades to 120 and 144 Hz
- Local Dimming Zones: 576 per eye
- Eye Tracking: 120 Hz, featuring an open-source algorithm for customization
- Connectivity: USB-C, DisplayPort 1.4, and a 3.5mm audio jack
- IPD Range: 57 to 76 mm
For those interested in diving deeper into the Somnium VR1’s capabilities, you might want to revisit our hands-on review from July 2024, where we shared our firsthand experiences with the device.
