In 2021, Varjo, known for its high-end mixed reality headsets, ventured into the consumer VR space with the release of the Aero headset. However, it seems the company is shifting its gaze back to its roots in enterprise solutions, particularly in training simulations for industries like military and aeronautics. A successor to the Aero appears increasingly unlikely as Varjo doubles down on these specialized applications.
Patrick Wyatt, Varjo’s chief product officer, discussed this strategic pivot in a recent interview with Road to VR. Varjo is now focusing on how its headsets can be more deeply integrated into specific use cases rather than just being sold as standalone devices. This shift is particularly evident in their collaboration with companies like Leonardo, a renowned helicopter manufacturer. Together, they developed the Virtual Extended Reality (VxR) helicopter pilot training system, which heavily relies on Varjo’s high-fidelity headsets. Impressively, this system has reached FAA FTD Level 7 Certification, marking it as the first VR-based training setup to achieve such a level.
This strategic move means Varjo isn’t just selling headsets and leaving customers to fend for themselves. Instead, they’re expanding their solutions engineering capacity, working closely with clients to design and implement systems that address real-world problems. As part of this commitment, Varjo has introduced different versions of its XR-4 headset, including the ‘Focal Edition’ with auto-focus cameras for close-up interactions and the ‘Secure Edition’ for classified environments. Such tailored versions come at a premium, with the Focal Edition priced at $10,000 and the Secure Edition exceeding $14,000.
Looking forward, Wyatt stated that Varjo plans to support the XR-4 series until 2030, ensuring businesses that the technology will remain relevant for years to come. This long-term assurance highlights Varjo’s shift away from consumer VR, focusing instead on bespoke enterprise solutions.
The Aero, which debuted in 2021, might very well be the company’s only foray into consumer VR. Initially positioned as a series for VR enthusiasts, the future of such hardware is uncertain. Wyatt didn’t completely close the door on the possibility of a follow-up but indicated it’s increasingly unlikely as Varjo moves in a different direction.
While this decision is disappointing for fans of Varjo’s visually impressive tech, it’s a pragmatic step. The consumer VR market is quickly gravitating towards compact and lightweight designs, something Varjo’s hefty devices aren’t known for. Competing with sleek models like the Bigscreen Beyond and MeganeX Superlight would require a significant redesign of Varjo’s current offerings.
Varjo’s strategic focus seems validated by the rising demand for their technologies outside the consumer field. According to the company, military use of its headsets has doubled since the launch of the XR-4 in early 2024. They now boast a workforce of over 200 and claim their tech is utilized by 19 of the top 20 global defense and aerospace organizations, as well as a quarter of the Fortune 100 companies. Clearly, Varjo’s commitment to enterprise solutions is steering it toward a promising future.
