Get to Know the New VR/XR Software Features in Varjo Base 4.6
The latest Varjo Base update is packed with powerful upgrades. Experience faster autofocus on the XR-4 Focal Edition, enhanced mixed reality alignment for all users, and eye tracking optimized for eyeglass wearers.
Please note: Varjo Base 4.6 must currently be installed manually by downloading it from the account portal. Updating directly via Varjo Base is not yet available.
Varjo Base 4.6. Faster and more focused.
The latest version of Varjo Base brings several enhancements, including improved autofocus performance for the Varjo XR-4 Focal Edition and better mixed reality alignment for all users. Eyeglass wearers will also experience enhanced eye tracking. Additionally, a range of bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements have been implemented.
Please note: Varjo Base 4.6 must currently be installed manually by downloading it from the account portal. Updating directly via Varjo Base is currently not available.
The XR-4 Series “Tweak Tool” is no longer included in the installation package, as it is no longer maintained. All its key functionalities have been fully integrated into Varjo Base.
Key highlights of the update include:
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Faster autofocus: Reduced average autofocus latency by 40 ms when shifting focus between objects at different distances. (XR-4 Focal Edition)
- Improved mixed reality alignment: Increased accuracy for mixed reality alignment with the introduction of temperature-aware distortion correction.
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Improved eye tracking accuracy and stability for eyeglass wearers: With single-dot calibration, the foveation focus area now more reliably follows the user’s gaze for approximately 85% of eyeglass users.
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Enhanced detection and stability of static markers.
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Integration of key features from the ‘Tweak Tool’ application into Varjo Base, such as camera stream status indicators.
- General bug fixes and stability improvements
For the complete list of new features, improvements, and known issues, please refer to the release notes.
Lightning fast autofocus
The Varjo XR-4 Focal Edition headset has the groundbreaking ability to adjust focus of the passthrough video feed in real time according to the users gaze. Replicating human vision, the passthrough video feed will focus on objects at varying distances as the user shifts their gaze.
With a nearly 40-millisecond reduction in focus-shifting time, this cutting-edge functionality is now smoother and more natural than ever. This advancement further solidifies the XR-4 Focal Edition’s position as the provider of the world’s most advanced passthrough experience in a mixed reality (XR) headset.
Improved mixed reality alignment
Mixed reality alignment determines how well virtual objects stay anchored to their positions when superimposed onto the real world via passthrough. Poor alignment can cause virtual objects to appear as if they are floating or swaying, disrupting the immersive experience.
Previously, extended use of the Varjo XR-4 Series headsets caused temperature fluctuations, leading to slight shifts in the position of internal sensors and gradual alignment drift over time. This issue has now been addressed with temperature-aware corrections, ensuring consistently accurate mixed reality alignment.
The result is a significantly improved mixed reality experience for all users, particularly benefiting design review use cases where precision is critical.
Good news for glasses-wearers
The Varjo XR-4 Series is designed to accommodate glasses, ensuring a comfortable fit while wearing the headset. Now, with enhanced eye-tracking technology, the integrated cameras more accurately capture eye movements through glass lenses. As a result, gaze-driven features like foveated rendering and autofocus are now significantly more precise for up to 85% of glasses wearers.
Additionally, custom face cushions are available for a better fit with eyeglasses. The new extended face cushion even includes a removable section, providing an adaptable solution for added comfort and usability.
Varjo Base updates come frequently, bringing updates and improvements on a consistent basis. Major updates are scheduled every two months, with incremental releases in between.
To delve deeper into this release and learn about all of the new features, additions, and fixes, please take a look at the full release notes.
We introduce new software features and improvements based on feedback from our customers, and we’d like to concentrate on the features that matter the most to our users. So, after giving the new Varjo Base a try, get in touch with us and tell us what you think. We warmly welcome all feedback and improvement suggestions.