The Pimax Dream Air headset marks a significant shift in focus for the company. Traditionally known for its large, bulky headsets that deliver an expansive field of view, Pimax is now aiming to create a device that is both compact and packed with exciting features. One of the most notable is a headstrap that automatically adjusts its fit, a pioneering feature in the VR industry.
With a price tag of $1,900 and a slated release in May 2025, the Dream Air is Pimax’s answer to the burgeoning market of sleek, high-end PC VR headsets, challenging rivals like Bigscreen Beyond and Shiftall MaganeX Superlight.
However, true to Pimax style, they’ve made bold promises that could potentially affect their ability to deliver on time. The Dream Air boasts the possibility of transforming into a standalone VR headset through an optional compute module, known as ‘Cobb’. This accessory is expected to house a Snapdragon XR2 chip and a battery, and Pimax also offers an optional SteamVR Tracking faceplate.
Continuing their pattern, Pimax’s announcement of the Dream Air follows a familiar script of unveiling new products before fulfilling prior commitments. The Crystal Super headset, introduced back in April 2024, was supposed to launch in the last quarter of 2024 but is now anticipated for release in early 2025.
The Dream Air promises an impressive lineup of specifications and features:
– Weight: 200g
– Resolution: 13MP (3,840 × 3,552) micro-OLED screens per eye @ 90Hz with HDR support
– Field of View: 102°
– Tracking: Inside-out
– Controls: Motion controllers and hand-tracking
– Audio: Integrated
– Extras: Optional prescription lenses, eye-tracking, automatic IPD adjustment, and the standout feature, automatic strap tightening
The latter is an innovation yet to be seen in major headsets, addressing the common challenge of achieving a snug but comfortable fit. Users often tighten their headsets for stability, but this balance can now be better maintained through automation.
The design of this auto-tightening strap shows thoughtful consideration. Although we’ve only seen concept images, the mechanism appears to integrate seamlessly under the fabric, suggesting a smooth, magical shrinking of the strap into the perfect position.
If it works as proposed, this feature could be a game-changer for many VR enthusiasts. The automatic IPD adjustment further simplifies use by aligning the lenses to the user’s unique eye spacing—a task most users find cumbersome to adjust manually.
While it’s yet to be seen if Pimax can deliver a design as sleek as promised, there’s no denying the company is showcasing a knack for innovative design, stepping away from the utilitarian, boxy forms of its previous offerings.
Nevertheless, Pimax isn’t abandoning its traditional designs entirely. While compact headsets represent a new focus for the company, they remain committed to developing their larger, wide field-of-view models.
Pre-orders for the Dream Air have already begun, priced at $1,900, with an anticipated release in May 2025.
