Eye tracking technology is a significant feature in both the Apple Vision Pro and the Bigscreen Beyond 2, though they approach it differently.
Apple Vision Pro Eye Tracking
The Apple Vision Pro uses a sophisticated eye-tracking system that relies on infrared illuminators and cameras. This system projects invisible light patterns onto the user's eyes, which are then tracked by internal cameras. The Vision Pro has at least eight infrared illuminators per eye, totaling 16 or more, and four eye-tracking cameras inside the headset. This setup allows for precise tracking of the user's gaze, enabling control of the operating system and user interface through eye movements and hand gestures[2][4].
The Vision Pro's eye-tracking technology is highly integrated into its overall user experience, providing a seamless interaction with virtual objects and environments. It is designed to work in conjunction with hand tracking, allowing users to interact with virtual objects in a natural way. The precision of this system allows for accurate selection of small icons and detailed interactions within virtual spaces[4].
Bigscreen Beyond 2 Eye Tracking
The Bigscreen Beyond 2 offers eye tracking as an optional feature, which is not included by default. Bigscreen has developed a small add-on for eye tracking, but it is not as deeply integrated into the headset as Apple's solution. Instead, users can opt for an additional eye-tracking module, which is not part of the standard package. This module is designed to enhance certain VR experiences, such as foveated rendering, which optimizes graphics performance by focusing processing power on the areas where the user is looking[1][3].
For users who want more advanced eye-tracking capabilities without the official module, there is a community-driven solution called EyeTrackVR. This open-source mod uses off-the-shelf components like OmniVision cameras and IR LEDs, making it accessible and affordable. However, it requires some technical expertise to install and may not offer the same level of integration or precision as the Vision Pro's built-in system[6].
Comparison
- Integration and Precision: The Apple Vision Pro's eye-tracking system is highly integrated and precise, using advanced infrared technology to track the user's gaze accurately. In contrast, the Bigscreen Beyond 2's eye-tracking capabilities are optional and not as deeply integrated into the headset's design.
- User Experience: The Vision Pro's eye tracking is designed to enhance the overall user experience, allowing for intuitive interaction with virtual environments. The Beyond 2's eye-tracking capabilities are more focused on enhancing specific VR experiences, such as foveated rendering, and may require additional setup or community mods.
- Cost and Accessibility: The Apple Vision Pro is a premium product with a high price tag, reflecting its advanced technology. The Bigscreen Beyond 2 offers a more affordable entry point into VR with optional eye tracking available at an additional cost. The community-driven EyeTrackVR mod provides an even more budget-friendly option for those willing to tinker with hardware.
In summary, while both headsets offer eye-tracking capabilities, the Apple Vision Pro provides a more integrated and precise solution as part of its core design, whereas the Bigscreen Beyond 2 offers optional and community-driven solutions that may require more setup and technical expertise.
Citations:
[1] https://gamingnexus.com/News/67544/Bigscreen-Beyond-2-looks-to-deliver-the-ultimate-VR-experience/
[2] https://petapixel.com/2024/04/01/how-apple-vision-pros-infrared-eye-tracking-technology-works/
[3] https://www.uploadvr.com/bigscreen-beyond-2-hands-on-impressions/
[4] https://hugo.blog/2024/03/11/vision-pro/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/VisionPro/comments/1b8u2gu/increase_your_accuracy_by_10x/
[6] https://store.bigscreenvr.com/blogs/beyond/eye-tracking-for-bigscreen-beyond-with-eyetrackvr
[7] https://www.uploadvr.com/bigscreen-beyond-2-and-beyond-2e-announced/
[8] https://xrdailynews.com/apple-vision-pro-everything-known-from-testers/
[9] https://www.imveurope.com/article/could-imaging-enabled-eye-tracking-tech-drive-mass-adoption-virtual-reality
[10] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CpzZWTz1h0w