The Facebook F8 conference has Oculus present an interesting take on the VR headset-- the "Half Dome," promising users a wider range of view and means to make virtual objects look better up close.
The Half Dome increases field of view from the 110-degree offered by the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive to 140-degrees. Thus, users can view more of the virtual world, even as the prototype retains the same dimensions as the existing Rift headset. Oculus says such a development comes through "continued advances in displays," something it will continue to work on before shifting focus on shrinking the headset.
The first Spectacles launched to a somewhat dim reception, as limited functionality, confusing software and privacy concerns lead to sales reaching just 220000 units. Snap claims to do better with the V2, with a more subtle design and the ability to put prescription lenses in the frames, as well as two mirrored lens options. Further improvements include a lighter internal processor, longer battery life (Snap says one can record and transfer 70 videos over a week on a single charge), an extra microphone and a waterproof design allowing use on the beach.
PS4 sales for fiscal 2017 total 19 million units, a decline from the 20m sold in fiscal 2016. However, one has to keep in mind the PS4 is fast approaching its 5th birthday, and such sales still outnumber those of other game consoles. The Nintendo Switch comes closest, with 17.79m units sold since March 2017. As for lifetime sales, the global PS4 install base totals 76m, far beyond the 30-50m lifetime sales estimate of Xbox hardware sales (Microsoft does not detail actual Xbox numbers in its financial reports).
The KSE1200 is technically a stripped-down version of the KSE1500, a device Shure describes as "the world's first sound isolating electrostatic earphone system." As such, while the KSE1500 is a full blown personal listening system the KSE1200 drops the digital signal processor and only carries an amplifier, allowing for a lower-cost device.
