Enterprise XR/AR Hardware in 2024: Top 5 Vendors & Features

Consumer Electronics Show 2023 was packed with VR/AR technology, indicating the growing interest in XR for consumers and enterprises. Speculations on Apple’s VR/AR headset and augmented reality glasses have also excited the VR/AR market, which is estimated to grow with a 14% annual growth rate to its projected $52B value in 2027.¹

Extended reality (XR) is becoming more advanced by gaining more processing power and becoming more comfortable and compact to use. These advancements are opening up new use cases and benefits for consumers and businesses. However, XR technology is far from mainstream enterprise adoption, which may be due to the lack of resources/hardware that make AR/VR accessible for businesses. 

We wrote this article to inform business leaders about AR/VR hardware, key features of AR/VR devices, and the vendors that provide enterprise XR solutions.

Types of XR hardware

1. Mixed reality/Augmented reality headsets

Figure 1: Google Glass Enterprise 2 and Microsoft HoloLens 2, Source: Google, XRshop

These types of XR hardware are head-mounted displays (HMDs) which are either transmissive or non-transmissive. Transmissive HMDSs are also called AR glasses or smart glasses due to the transparent glass-like display technology. These devices overlay interactable digital objects on top of the real-world environment utilizing built-in camera(s), sensors, and algorithms. MR/AR hardware is different from VR headsets since it augments the real world rather than immersing the user in a completely virtual space.

2. Virtual reality headsets

Figure 2: HTC Vive Pro 2 and Meta Quest 2, Source: Steam, CDW

VR headsets are HMDs that provide an immersive visual and auditory experience through non-transmissive displays. It typically includes a screen positioned in front of the eyes and lenses that adjust the focus and distance of projection. The display can be a single screen or two screens, one for each eye, to provide a stereoscopic 3D image. VR headsets can also include built-in speakers or support for headphones to provide an immersive auditory experience. VR headsets also have built-in motion sensors, cameras, and other input methods, such as hand controllers, which enable users to interact with virtual objects.

3. Mobile AR

Mobile AR hardware refers to devices that use a smartphone or tablet as the display and processing unit for AR experiences. Mobile augmented reality uses the camera, sensors, and processing power of the smartphone or tablet to track the user’s movements and overlay digital images and information onto the real world.

Mobile AR applications can be used for a variety of purposes, such as gaming, navigation, and product visualization, and they are typically less expensive than other types of AR hardware. Mobile AR hardware is widely used because of its portability, low cost, and wide range of applications; it also allows for a more accessible and affordable way for people to experience augmented reality.

Examples: iPhone 7 and above, iPad 5th generation and above, Samsung Galaxy S7 and above

9 key features for VR/AR headsets

1. System on chip (SOC)

A system on chip, or SOC, is an integrated circuit that includes all of the components necessary for a computer system to operate within a single AI chip. It is essentially the brain of the device and controls all of its functions. The SOC directly correlates to:

• Computing power
• Audio/video quality
• Thermal performance
• Hardware performance
• Tracking systems (eye tracking, hand tracking, etc.)
• Immersion quality (via computer vision).

2. Field of view (FOV)

 A wider FOV will provide a more immersive experience and give the user a better sense of presence in the virtual environment. It is especially beneficial for workers on the move during the job.

3. Operating System (OS)

The OS should be compatible with different platforms and software to ensure that it can be employed with a wide range of applications and content.

4. Battery life

 Long battery life is important for prolonged use.

5. Connectivity

Connectivity is essential for XR devices as it enables them to:

• access and download content
• receive updates and maintenance
• connect to other devices and platforms
• provide more powerful and sophisticated experiences, etc.

XR hardware should offer high bandwidth and state-of-the-art connection (5G, Bluetooth, WiFi) for the best performance and collaborative work.

6. Sensors and cameras

Sensors (light sensor, depth sensors, etc.) and cameras are important for enterprise XR hardware because they enable the device to accurately track and interpret the user’s movements and actions in real time, which is crucial for a wide range of enterprise applications such as:

• Training and simulation
• Remote collaboration
• Design and development
• Field service
• Maintenance and repair.

7. Standalone vs. Tethered

Standalone XR hardware does not require a connection to a PC or a console to operate, which makes it more portable and convenient to use.

8. Weight

Weight and comfort are important for user convenience and prolonged usage.

9. Price

Price determines the affordability, accessibility, and scalability of XR hardware, which makes it a key factor.

Top 5 XR hardware vendors

XR hardware vendor screening

A capability-based review of all XR hardware features can take years or not be detailed enough to offer value. We applied a 3 step screening process to filter the number of vendors we analyze:

1. Number of Employees: The number of employees is correlated with the revenue and the overall success of a firm. The number of employees is also correlated to resources, knowledge, and the quality of customer support. We screened out companies with less than 200 employees on Linkedin.

Our screening process led us to the 5 vendors listed below in alphabetical order:

1. Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2
2. HTC Vive Focus 3
3. Meta (Oculus) Quest Pro
4. Microsoft HoloLens 2
5. Varjo

Notes

• There might be vendors we can miss to include our list. If this is the case, please let us know in the comment section.
• Apple’s entrance to the market will update this vendor list

Table 1.1: The capabilities offered by each vendor

Table 1.2: The capabilities offered by each vendor

Best practices to choose XR hardware

1. Define your needs

Before you start shopping for VR/AR hardware, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what you need the technology to do. Consider the specific tasks and XR applications for which you’ll be using the hardware, as well as the environment in which it will be used. This will help you narrow down your options and make the selection process much easier.

2. Consider the cost 

VR/AR hardware can be expensive, so it’s important to consider your budget when making a selection. Look for products that offer the best value for money while keeping the required features and specifications in mind.

3. Check integration capabilities

Make sure that the VR/AR hardware you select is compatible with your existing devices and systems. This includes integration with your computer or mobile device, as well as any other hardware or software you’ll be using in conjunction with the VR/AR hardware.

4. Test and evaluate

Once you have narrowed down your options, it’s important to test and evaluate the VR/AR hardware before making a final decision. Look for products that are easy to use and offer a good user experience. Take into account the durability and longevity of the product as well. It’s also important to keep in mind the scalability of the product, the support, and updates provided by the manufacturer, the level of security, and the ease of integration into your existing systems.

5. Work with the vendor

Many vendors offer extended post-sale assistance regarding hardware, software, and integration. Customer service from the original equipment manufacturer will be the best option to get the maximum return on investment from the product.

If you have further questions on XR, don’t hesitate to contact us:

This article was drafted by former AIMultiple industry analyst Berke Can Agagündüz.

External Links

• 1. “AR & VR – Worldwide“. Statista. Retrieved January 16, 2023.