Somnium’s VR1 PC Headset Now Shipping in the US with Upcoming Price Increase Announced

Somnium Space, a company based in Prague, Czechia, has started to roll out its Somnium VR1 PC VR headset in the United States. Alongside this launch, they’re simplifying their lineup to just three versions aimed at consumers and are set to increase prices on their higher-tier models soon.

The company has announced the discontinuation of several configurations they previously offered, such as the Striker, Classic, Specter, and Translucent Editions. Traditionally, the Classic Edition was the entry point at €1,900 ($1,980 USD) without eye-tracking features. Now, the least expensive option is the Visionary Edition, which includes eye-tracking and is priced at €2,499 ($2,600 USD). It’s important to note that these prices are exclusive of local taxes.

In a recent announcement, Somnium Space reassured customers who have already ordered these now-discontinued versions: “Rest assured, if you’ve already made a purchase, your order is secure and will be delivered as planned. Owning one of these variants will make your headset even more exclusive and unique.”

The company explained its decision to drop certain versions, stating: "By focusing on delivering the Visionary, Ultimate, and Titan Editions more swiftly and efficiently, we can uphold the exceptional quality standards customers expect from us."

Moreover, Somnium Space is planning price hikes for the Visionary, Ultimate, and Titan Editions, though the new prices remain unspecified. The current prices will be maintained until January 16th, 2025, after which the updated pricing will come into effect.

Here’s a breakdown of the current lineup and pricing (excluding tax):

• Visionary Edition (VR, eye-tracking): €2,499 (~$2,600 USD)
• Titan Edition (VR, eye-tracking, hand-tracking): €2,899 (~$3,020 USD)
• Ultimate Edition (VR, eye-tracking, hand-tracking, MR passthrough): €3,499 (~$3,659 USD)
• Military Edition (VR, eye-tracking, hand-tracking, MR passthrough): Prices TBD

“We aim to keep Somnium VR1 as affordable as possible but we won’t compromise on quality,” says the company. “The production complexity has surpassed our initial expectations, necessitating price increases for the Visionary, Ultimate, and Titan Editions.”

Currently, orders placed are expected to reach customers between February and March 2025, covering shipping regions such as most of Europe, the UK, and the US.

Looking ahead to 2025, Somnium Space plans to offer spare parts for the Somnium VR1, including optical modules, mainboards, electronics, cables, and screens.

Somnium VR1 Technical Specs

• Display: QLED Mini-Led Fast LCD, 2,880 x 2,880 pixels per eye
• Field of view: 130° horizontal, 105° vertical; can render up to 140° horizontally depending on individual facial and eye structure
• Refresh rate: Options of 72 Hz, 90 Hz, with potential upgrades to 120 and 144 Hz (experimental)
• Local dimming zones: 576 per eye
• Eye tracking: Operates at 120 Hz with an open-source algorithm available for adaptation
• Connectivity: USB-C, DisplayPort 1.4, 3.5mm audio jack
• IPD Range: 57 to 76 mm

For a detailed exploration of Somnium VR1, you might want to check out our hands-on review from July 2024, where we share our initial impressions.