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Pimax Roadmap Reveals: Hand Tracking for VR Headsets Crystal Super & Crystal Light

Pimax Roadmap Reveals: Hand Tracking for VR Headsets Crystal Super & Crystal Light

Pimax Roadmap Reveals: Hand Tracking for VR Headsets Crystal Super & Crystal Light – Image: Xpert.Digital

Pimax Connect 2025: New tracking technologies for more immersive VR experiences

Hand tracking is coming: Pimax improves high-end VR

During the recent Pimax Connect 2025 conference (May 12, 2025), VR manufacturer Pimax announced significant advancements in its tracking technologies. The highlight is the introduction of hand tracking for the Crystal series, which will significantly expand the interaction possibilities for owners of these high-end VR headsets. The feature is slated to be available as a beta version for the Crystal Light, Crystal Super, and Dream Air series in the third quarter of 2025. This announcement underscores Pimax's ongoing commitment to technologically advancing its virtual reality solutions.

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Hand tracking for the Crystal series: details and timeline

The integration of hand tracking into the Crystal series represents a significant expansion of the functionality of these PC VR headsets. According to the official announcement, Pimax plans to introduce the hand-tracking feature as a beta version for the Crystal Light and Crystal Super, as well as for the Dream Air series, in the third quarter of 2025. This technology promises to further enhance interactivity and immersion in VR environments.

While the new integrated hand-tracking feature won't be available until 2025, Pimax already offers a separate hand-tracking module. This module can be attached to the bottom of the Crystal headsets and enables hand tracking immediately. Installing this module requires attaching it to the headset with screws and connecting it via a USB Type-C cable. After connecting the headset to the PC, the Pitool software displays a notification that hand tracking has been activated and provides a download link for the necessary driver.

However, some users are reporting compatibility issues with certain software. One user on the DCS World Forum described difficulties using the Pimax hand tracker with DCS, where the system failed to recognize the connected device, even though it functioned correctly in the Pimax Home UI. This suggests that the current hand-tracking solution still needs optimization – an issue that may be resolved with the upcoming integrated solution.

Technical basics of hand tracking

Pimax's current hand-tracking module is based on LeapMotion IR170 technology, according to a Reddit post. The upcoming integrated solution is likely to be based on similar principles, though Pimax will probably implement its own optimizations to improve accuracy and responsiveness.

The development of hand tracking aligns with Pimax's advancements in other tracking technologies, particularly its proprietary SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) tracking. Unlike conventional base station tracking, which relies on infrared sensors and can be susceptible to obstructions and interference, Pimax's SLAM technology utilizes four cameras to generate over one million tracking points, combined with inertial measurement for superior precision.

Current developments in the Crystal series

In addition to the hand-tracking announcement, Pimax also provided updates on the shipping dates and technical specifications of its Crystal models.

Shipping dates and options

The Crystal Super with 50PPD optics has been shipping since April, with Pimax planning to fulfill all pre-orders by June 2025. The version with the higher-quality 57PPD optics is expected to follow in the second quarter of 2025.

Of particular interest is the announcement of a Micro-OLED variant of the Crystal Super, which will be equipped with the same Sony panels as the Dream Air. This version is slated to ship in early Q3 2025 for $1,199. The use of Micro-OLED displays promises improved image quality with higher brightness, better contrast, and more vibrant colors.

60G Airlink module

Pimax has also announced the long-awaited 60G Airlink module for the third quarter of 2025. This wireless module for VR headsets was originally slated for release in 2024 for $299, but its launch has been repeatedly delayed. The 60G Airlink module will introduce wireless capabilities to the Crystal series, offering seamless connectivity and improved compatibility across various platforms. This development is particularly important for users who desire greater freedom of movement in VR environments.

Expansions in the Pimax portfolio: Dream Air series

The announcement of hand tracking for the Crystal series coincides with other significant product updates, most notably the launch of the Dream Air SE and updates to the Dream Air range.

Dream Air and Dream Air SE

During Connect 2025, Pimax presented updates to the Crystal series as well as news about the Dream Air range, including a new model: the Dream Air SE. Both devices use micro-OLED displays and pancake lenses, with the SE version offering a lower resolution of 2560 x 2560 pixels per eye compared to the regular Dream Air (3840 x 3552 pixels).

Common features of the Dream Air models include integrated audio, SLAM tracking, and hand tracking. Both versions also support foveated rendering thanks to Tobii eye tracking, which optimizes graphics performance. The Dream Air was introduced as the "world's smallest 8K resolution VR headset" and offers comprehensive tracking capabilities, including eye tracking, inside-out tracking, hand tracking, and controller support.

However, it's important to note that current prototypes of the Dream Air series still have limitations. A hands-on report on Reddit indicates that the tested prototypes lack working tracking, controllers or hand tracking, and adjustable IPD. These features are expected to be included in the final version.

Pricing and availability

The Dream Air SE, in its SLAM version with inside-out tracking and controllers, costs $1,199, while the Lighthouse version without controllers is available for $899. The regular Dream Air starts at $1,899 for the Lighthouse version and $2,199 for the SLAM version. Shipping of both models has been delayed until the third quarter of 2025, which aligns with the timeline for the introduction of hand tracking.

Pimax's vision for the future of VR

The announcement of hand tracking for the Crystal Super and Crystal Light underscores Pimax's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of VR technology. Through the integration of advanced tracking technologies, improved display quality, and the development of wireless solutions, Pimax continues to position itself as a leader in the high-end VR segment.

For existing Crystal owners, the upcoming introduction of hand tracking represents a significant expansion of their devices' functionality, while potential buyers now have another compelling reason to choose Pimax's premium VR solutions. With the simultaneous development of the Dream Air series and the 60G Airlink module, Pimax demonstrates its commitment to addressing diverse market segments and offering innovative solutions for a range of user preferences.

While we await the beta version of hand tracking in the third quarter of 2025, it remains to be seen how well the implementation will work and how seamlessly it integrates into existing VR applications. If Pimax can deliver the promised features, this could represent a significant step towards more natural and intuitive VR interactions.

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