Immersive mobile experience as provided by a VR headset is awesome, but it is an experience you would probably not bring on the road. Google Cardboard offers a lightweight alternative, but still, a box is not something that slips into the pocket and so, you’d be right to think that the roads are off-limit to VR on mobile. Well, that’s until Figment VR by Quantum Bakery (note: not an actual bakery) comes along. Figment VR is Quantum Bakery’s vision of what a VR headset should be: one that lets you experience immersive VR whenever, wherever you desire, without having to lug along a clunky headset, or a prone-to-crushing cardboard box.
In fact, Figment VR is part of an iPhone case, so that your phone gets the protection it needs and you, get to enjoy VR anytime, anywhere. When not in use, the viewer folds in completely and disappear into the back of the slim iPhone case. And when you are ready for some VR fun, just click on the button and the 6000 grade aluminum bridge flips over, placing the viewer between you and the display. Unlike regular ‘box-type’ VR headset, Figment VR does not have a divider between the lenses, but its creator assures that the distance between the phone and the lenses, together with the type of lenses used, would result in correct image convergence without ghosting or crosstalk. As a bonus, the viewer and bridge can also double as an useful kickstand.
But what about the open sided design? According to Quantum Bakery, ambient light won’t be an issue since the bridge blocks out most of the light and besides, having exposed sides would make the device “feel less claustrophobic and more socially acceptable to use in public spaces.” In addition, you get to access the touch display which today’s VR headsets don’t offer.
So where can you get one? Fortunately, Figment VR is not a mere figment of imagination by some visionary designers. It is a real product, currently pitching itself on Kickstarter. Better yet, it has already hit its initial funding goal, which means for $55 or more, you are in fact pre-ordering an unit for March 2016 delivery. Catch the pitch video below to learn more.
