We’ve made some great advances with virtual reality technology over the years, but a common complaint with current VR headsets is that they’re too bulky. However, if Facebook’s new prototype is anything to go by, that issue might soon be a thing of the past.

A Glimpse into the Possible Future of VR Headsets

A Stylish New Design

The social media giant recently revealed the VR product they’re currently working on, and it’s safe to say it’s definitely far more stylish than the models we’re used to. Designed to look like a pair of sunglasses - albeit some rather thick ones - the prototype proves that it’s possible to still look fashionable while immersing yourself in virtual reality.

A Glimpse into the Possible Future of VR Headsets

Several Necessary Changes

Creating a VR experience without using the standard headset required Facebook to make several technological changes. That included replacing refractive lenses with holographic optics, as well as polarization-based optical folding. The former still bends light just like the lenses do, but on a smaller, lighter scale. As for the latter, the process allows for light to be bounced back and forth without the use of bulk optics in what’s known as “pancake” folding. The combination of these elements holds the promise of creating the VR experience we expect, just with less baggage.

A Glimpse into the Possible Future of VR Headsets

A While To Wait

Although Facebook has a prototype for what their new VR product will look like, it’ll probably be a few more years before we can actually buy it. There are several issues that still need to be ironed out, such as increasing the range of colors that can be displayed. There are also various external elements that have to be integrated into the glasses, all without adding any bulk into the final design. Still, at least we’ve now had a glimpse of what Facebook is bringing to the VR headsets table.

While we might have to wait a while to try out these high-tech specs, we’re feeling positive about what the future holds for virtual reality.