Bigscreen has made a bold move by slashing the price of its PC VR headset, the Bigscreen Beyond 2, from $1,019 to $959. This strategic decision, made in the face of inflation and rising component costs, is a significant development in the VR industry. Personally, I think this move is a smart one, as it makes the headset more accessible to a wider audience, which could potentially boost sales and market presence. What makes this particularly fascinating is the timing; it comes at a time when the VR market is experiencing a bit of a lull, with many competitors struggling to keep up with technological advancements and consumer demands. In my opinion, this price reduction is a calculated risk that could pay off handsomely for Bigscreen.
The Beyond 2, which now starts at $959, is a sleek and lightweight PC VR headset with a field of view of 116 degrees. It features adjustable IPD, 2,560 x 2,560 per-eye resolution, and a 90Hz refresh rate. The headset is also compatible with SteamVR controllers and trackers, making it a versatile option for VR enthusiasts. One thing that immediately stands out is the inclusion of the Universal-Fit Cushion, a thin silicone light seal that comes in both soft and firm varieties. This is a welcome addition, as it ensures a comfortable and customizable fit for users, which is often overlooked in the VR industry.
The price reduction is not the only significant development for Bigscreen. The company has also resumed production of the Halo Mount, a redesigned strap that was initially met with negative feedback from testers. The Halo Mount is designed to better distribute the headset's weight, which is impressive given the headset's light weight of just 107 grams. This is a crucial feature, as it ensures that users can comfortably wear the headset for extended periods without experiencing fatigue or discomfort.
The fact that Bigscreen is able to resume production of the Halo Mount after a major redesign and a delay is a testament to the company's resilience and commitment to innovation. It also suggests that the company is listening to its customers and making adjustments to meet their needs. What many people don't realize is that the Halo Mount is not just a strap; it's a crucial component that can make or break the user experience. A poorly designed strap can cause discomfort and even lead to injuries, so Bigscreen's attention to detail is commendable.
The resumed production of the Halo Mount is expected to ship in October, with the largest volume of units expected to ship in November. This is a significant development, as it means that users who have been waiting for the Halo Mount will finally be able to get their hands on it. It also suggests that Bigscreen is confident in the product and is prepared to meet the demand. If you take a step back and think about it, the Halo Mount is a crucial component that can make the Beyond 2 a truly exceptional VR headset.
However, there are some challenges that Bigscreen faces. The company has experienced high demand and delayed freight shipments, which have caused very low inventory levels. This means that some orders may take up to two weeks to ship, which is a significant inconvenience for customers. But, if you look at the bigger picture, this is a temporary setback, and Bigscreen expects to resume its regular 1-2 business day shipping by September 14th. This is a positive sign, as it shows that the company is working hard to resolve the issue and ensure a smooth customer experience.
In conclusion, Bigscreen's decision to lower the price of the Beyond 2 and resume production of the Halo Mount is a significant development in the VR industry. It shows that the company is committed to innovation and customer satisfaction, and it's a positive sign for the future of VR. From my perspective, this move is a smart one that could pay off handsomely for Bigscreen, and it's something that VR enthusiasts should keep an eye on. The company's attention to detail and commitment to innovation are impressive, and it's clear that they are working hard to make VR more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
