Qualcomm recently unveiled the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, an upgraded version of the XR2 Gen 2 chip used in the Meta Quest 3. This new chipset boasts a 15% higher GPU clock and a 20% higher CPU clock, providing enhanced performance. Notably, it supports higher resolution display output, offering up to 4.3K per eye at 90Hz or 3.7K per eye at 120Hz, compared to the base XR2 Gen 2.
The XR2+ Gen 2 also introduces support for up to 12 concurrent cameras, enabling headsets with advanced face and eye tracking sensors. This is an increase from the 10 cameras supported by the base XR2 Gen 2. It’s designed for premium headsets, including those set to compete with the Apple Vision Pro.
However, it’s essential to clarify that the XR2+ Gen 2 is not a successor to the XR2 Gen 2 released just three months ago. It serves as a more high-end option for pricier headsets and inherits the advantages of the base XR2 Gen 2 architecture, including hardware acceleration for camera passthrough to reduce latency.
Despite the increased clock speeds of the GPU and CPU, the performance per watt remains the same. Headsets using the XR2+ Gen 2 may need larger batteries to maintain comparable battery life while utilizing the extra performance.
Looking at the XR chip lineup, Qualcomm’s chart can be a bit confusing, but the XR2+ Gen 2 is positioned as a premium choice with improved specifications. It’s set to power devices from various manufacturers, including Immersed’s Visor, Samsung’s upcoming Google-powered headset, a new HTC Vive headset, a YVR headset in China, and a fifth undisclosed company’s headset.
Qualcomm’s VP and GM of XR, Hugo Swart, mentioned that, for now, they don’t see a market need for an XR3 line but didn’t rule out the possibility in the future. Swart also highlighted the XR2+ Gen 2’s design for fully tetherless headsets, contrasting it with the external battery requirement of the Apple Vision Pro.
In conclusion, the XR2+ Gen 2 brings notable improvements to GPU and CPU performance, catering to the demands of high-end VR headsets, but its impact on battery life should be considered by manufacturers. The market continues to evolve, and Qualcomm remains a key player in pushing the boundaries of XR technology. Stay tuned for potential announcements from Samsung, HTC, and the undisclosed fifth company in the coming days and weeks.
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