Vivo Challenges Apple With Ultra-Light MR Headset
Chinese smartphone maker Vivo has entered the mixed reality market, unveiling a new headset that significantly undercuts competitors on weight in a bid to challenge established players like Apple Inc. in the spatial computing sector.
The company on Thursday launched its first MR device, the vivo Vision Explorer Edition, touting it as the industry's lightest headset at 398 grams. This positions the device well below the weight of Apple’s Vision Pro, which exceeds 600 grams, and other mainstream headsets that typically weigh over 500 grams.
"Reducing weight was a core mission from the very beginning of the project," said Hong Yi, General Manager of Smart Terminals at vivo Mobile Communication Co., Ltd. , at the August 21 launch event in 2025. "If a device is too heavy, it's difficult for people to stay immersed for long periods."
By focusing on ergonomics and comfort, vivo aims to address a key barrier to mainstream MR adoption—user fatigue. The strategy is to position its headset not just as a niche gadget, but as an everyday wearable device, potentially expanding the market for long-duration immersive experiences.
Lightweight by Design
To achieve its sub-400-gram weight, the vivo Vision Explorer Edition utilizes a high-strength, lightweight magnesium alloy in its construction. The company also implemented a split-body riveted design to optimize structural integrity while minimizing mass. A proprietary "spindle-shaped folded surface" lens layout further contributes to a slimmer physical and visual profile, according to the company's presentation.
From 'Tech Toy' to 'Daily Companion'
Vivo is framing the headset's lightness as a strategic move to redefine the user experience for wearable terminals. The company claims the design, combined with an adjustable mask and straps, allows the device to fit various head shapes and achieve "imperceptible wear," mitigating the neck strain common with heavier units. This focus on comfort is intended to transition the MR headset from a "tech toy" used for short-term entertainment into a "daily smart companion" suitable for extended immersive viewing or interactive tasks.