Background: I have been interested in virtual reality for some time. However, the solutions to date include
- expensive computer based headsets that are wired to the processor versus
- phone based solutions that involve phone apps and insertion of a smart phone into a headset
I find both of these option not exactly user- or wallet-friendly.
Therefore when I found the Lenovo Mirage Solo available at an intermediate price point, cable, and phone-free, I decided to give it a try via a refurbished unit on Amazon.
Setup: It’s an Android device. Setup was relatively straightforward. I charged it up via the USB-C port. I powered it up, and signed into my wi-fi first and then my Google account using the pointer and a virtual keyboard that appears floating in front of me while wearing the headset.
Use: The pointer/mouse works well to click around the brightly colored, low resolution 3-Dish world offered up. There’s games and a NetFlix theater. Of course, there’s a version of the Google Play store which offers up some 3-D goodies. It’s comfortable, even for my large head. The battery seems to last for a significant amount of time.
Conclusions: It’s a comfortable, affordable way to introduce someone to the concept of VR.
1 Pros: affordable, no tether, easy to setup, easy to use, comfortable to wear, good battery life
2. Cons: low resolution, limited complexity of the VR world that is offered to the user
