Ask HN: Anyone using augmented reality, VR, glasses, helmets etc. in industry?

I am actively looking into an Oculus 3 for a virtual desktop environment that I can use portably, such as in an Airbnb, instead of lugging around a 43" 4K monitor. I'm also looking at projectors for this purpose. The context is remote work.

This is the only use case I have for the Apple Vision Pro, and it works quite well for that, paired with my 16" M3 Macbook Pro.

That's actually a great idea. Don't need multiple screens if you can just use AR/VR.

- How is reading text for long periods?

- Does your neck get tired?

- Do you ever have to be on video calls? I can't talk to clients looking like a spaceman

Try to find a way to try various facial interfaces and head strap arrangements. The stock ones can be uncomfortable for longer-term usage on many people's faces. I don't find this to be much of an issue while playing games (I use Ace, the competition pistol shooting simulator), but it gets to me when viewing movies or reading text/code. Also, extended batteries mean you can't easily rest your head in a chair.

I think alt-tabbing or virtual desktops has less mental overhead and physical strain than using VR though.

Saw some good reviews of the Viture Pro XR for this use case.

I would search for lighter options if you intend to use it for long periods of time or get a better head strap.

Its less mental strain to just lay out the windows spatially. Who doesn't like more monitor space? However, its much more physical strain than multiple monitors.

This is a good point. I thought about it, too.

I could see a frequent traveler using an AVP as a "full setup" on the go. In my experience, I can get away with most with a MacBook. Some projects really benefit from the extra screen real estate (and a mechanical keyboard.)

For me, the problem is that if I don't see it, it doesn't exist. Slack, server monitoring, other communications channels, they all take up real estate. My daily driver is a 43" 4K monitor. Basically 4x 24" 1080p monitors in one. It's the exact opposite of portable.

I can get any task done with my laptop. But not a full day's work. And if I want to travel while I work (which I would like to do) then I need a better solution. This is why I'm looking into VR and also a 4K projector, but a projector would have to be able to be seen in a bright environment, and I don't know what the current state of projectors is.

Not them, but I have one. I love it for movies or gaming where I can lay down and easily readjust it, but it's just no good for sitting/standing over long periods.

It's not actually the weight. I have a Quest 3 with a BoboVR head strap, external battery, etc that all add up to be heavier than the AVP, but I can easily go for multi-hour social sessions with that on without any physical discomfort. You can put a ton of weight on your head with perfect comfort as long as it's balanced properly.

The AVP's real problem is that its ergonomics are just shit. As with a bunch of other things, they designed for the ads instead of actual usability, so it's significantly worse than headsets that are actually much heavier, and the earband design with the way-too-far-back connectors and no top connections makes it nigh impossible for third parties to improve on it.

The closest thing I've seen to making it comfortable is the third-party ResMed Kontor headstrap, and that's being produced in such low numbers that it's functionally impossible to actually buy.

Thanks! I'm intrigued by the idea of being able to do serious multi-monitor computing under a tree, armed with only a small mobile device and smart glasses. Maybe in a few years!

Look up laser projectors. Random article: https://www.hisense-usa.com/post/laser-light-projectors-vs-l...

Looks like 3k lumens is your maximum. https://www.google.com/search?q=3000+lumen+projector+in+dayl...

I am currently traveling and for the past few weeks have been using an Oculus 3 with Immersed (https://immersed.com/). Pleasantly surprised how usable it is for 3-6 hour stretches, more productive than just a laptop screen alone. At home I'll likely return to physical monitors though.

Tips: Get an upgraded headband, silicone face cover and carrying case. Use a physical USB connection for lower latency (& turn off the wifi/bluetooth as it's no longer needed). Bring a cloth for keeping the lenses clean. Bump the Retina quality up in the Immersed client (on Mac). Lower resolutions (1920x1080) are more comfortable to use over longer periods. Use a travel neck pillow for reclined usage. Bring replacement batteries and a charger for the controllers.