There are two main types of headsets: virtual reality (VR) headsets can display only virtual images, while augmented reality (AR) or mixed reality (MR) headsets display computer-generated images over the real-world environment. Both types of headsets process a 3D virtual environment and project the result on a stereoscopic display (providing separate images for each eye).
HMDs also usually incorporate motion sensors to determine direction and movement to be able to interact with one’s environment inside an immersive virtual reality application.
In fact, a key feature of an HMD is the ability to track the wearer's head and eye movements. This way, the images shown on the display change according to the wearer’s head position and where they are looking. Head-tracking is an essential aspect of the HMD that allows an enhanced immersion experience for the user.
Key challenges
Whether for fast-paced action gaming or industrial maintenance and repair applications in harsh environments, a positive HMD experience involves three technical challenges: tracking, rendering and display. They need to be executed flawlessly in order to ensure a rich VR/AR experience.
- Energy efficient for a long operating life
- Fast and accurate tracking
- High framerate with close to no latency is required to ensure an enjoyable experience and avoid motion sickness
- High degree of interaction through seamless wireless connectivity
Getting the most from our products and solutions
To overcome challenges in designing high-quality headsets, ST provides a wide range of innovative products and developer resources. In addition to highly optimized and low-power time-of-flight (ToF) sensors for fast and accurate 3D sensing, ST offers a complete range of MEMS and sensors including gyroscopes, accelerometers, and ambient light sensors ensuring accurate position tracking and flawless interaction within the AR/VR environment.
ST is also a leading company when it comes to global shutter image sensors. Thanks to our optimized products, eye tracking can be power-efficient, fast, and reliable.
ST’s Near Field Communication (NFC) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) solutions enable secure and reliable wireless connections to any device including remote controllers, smartphones and many more.
In addition, our expertise in power management enables efficient energy provisioning in a slim form factor.
Moreover, ST offers a large panel of ESD protection devices to cover a wide range of use cases. From USB protection, HDMI protection to SD card protection, you have access to dedicated protection devices to ensure safe and sustainable designs.
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