[Delaware, US] - May 11, 2025 – Pimax, a leader in high-end virtual reality technology, announced the launch of the Dream Air SE alongside an update to the Dream Air. Designed for portability and stunning micro-OLED visuals like Dream Air, the Dream Air SE features such as integrated audio, inside-out tracking, hand and eye-tracking — at an accessible price point.
Dream Air: World’s Smallest Full-Feature 8K VR Headset
Pimax introduced the Dream Air in December 2024 as the world’s smallest 8K resolution VR headset. Now, the updated Dream Air takes immersive VR experiences to the next levels, with upgrades across visuals, optics, tracking, and ergonomics:
- Sony Micro-OLED Panels: 3840 x 3552 pixels per eye, delivering over 27 million lifelike pixels. Upgraded Sony panels enhance brightness, color depth, and detail, with a wider 20° chief ray angle for stunning visuals.
- Advanced Optics: Next-gen pancake lenses offer edge-to-edge clarity, minimal glare, and a perfect field of view for total immersion.
- Comprehensive Tracking: Includes Tobii-powered eye-tracking (120Hz refresh), inside-out tracking, hand-tracking, and controller support. Users can choose SLAM or Lighthouse versions for ultimate flexibility.
- Integrated Audio: Built-in audio delivers rich, immersive soundscapes.
- Ergonomic Design: Lightweight and versatile, featuring a self-tightening headstrap, adaptable halo strap, and universal compatibility for extended comfort.
Pricing and Availability:
- SLAM Version (Inside-out tracking and controllers): $2099 (Prime: $1399 + $900)
- Lighthouse Version (Without controllers): $1899 (Prime: $1199 + $700)
Both versions are scheduled to ship in August or early September 2025.
Introducing the Dream Air SE: An affordable High-End PCVR Option
Building on Dream Air, Dream Air SE brings many of the premium features of its predecessor to a wider audience with a focus on affordability.
Key differences include:
- Micro-OLED Panels: 2560 x 2560 resolution per eye, offering vivid colors and perfect blacks.
- Optics: Tailored pancake lenses for a balanced FOV and above 90° stereo overlap.
- Tracking and Features: Integrated audio, eye-tracking, SLAM tracking, controllers, and hand-tracking.
- Weight: Less than 150 grams
For VR users who already own base stations and controllers, the Lighthouse version starts from a very competitive price of $899 USD, whereas users who don't own any controllers or base stations, the SLAM-tracked version provides a whole package for $1199 USD, which is far more affordable than any competitor product with third party base station and controller options.
Pricing and Availability
- SLAM Version (Inside-out tracking and controllers): $1199 (Prime: $699 + $500)
- Lighthouse Version (Without controllers): $899 (Prime: $599 + $300)
Dream Air SE is expected to be shipped in Q3 2025, alongside Dream Air.
Both prototypes are already in testing, marking the final stages of development.
More Updates from Pimax
SLAM Tracking
Pimax is one of the few VR companies developing its own SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) tracking technology. Unlike traditional base station tracking, which relies on infrared sensors and is prone to occlusion and interference, Pimax’s SLAM tracking leverages four cameras to generate over a million tracking points, paired with inertial measurement for unparalleled accuracy. This advancement is bringing the VR world closer to a future where inside-out tracking can rival traditional base station tracking.
Hand-tracking
Pimax is expanding its capabilities with hand-tracking, set to debut in beta for the Crystal Light, Crystal Super, and Dream Air series in Q3 2025. This feature will further enhance interactivity and immersion.
Crystal Super Optical Engine
The Crystal Super with 50PPD optical engine has been shipping since April, with all pre-orders set to be fulfilled by June. The 57PPD optical engine will start shipping in Q2, and the micro-OLED version, featuring upgraded Sony panels from Dream Air, will ship in early Q3 at $1199.
60G Airlink
The upcoming 60G Airlink, also launching in Q3 2025, introduces wireless capabilities to the Crystal series, offering seamless connectivity and improved compatibility across platforms. The company’s commitment to continuous product improvement is evident in its proactive approach to user feedback and addressing shortcomings in competitor offerings.
About Pimax
Founded in 2015, Pimax is a pioneer in high-end virtual reality technology, driven by the vision of pushing the boundaries of innovation and helping humanity transcend its limitations through immersive technology. The company gained global recognition with the world’s first 4K VR headset and has continued to lead the industry with a series of breakthrough products, including the groundbreaking Pimax 8K, whose Kickstarter campaign set a reigning Guinness World Record for the most successful crowdfunded VR project. Other milestones include the Pimax 8KX, which won Best VR Product at CES 2020, and the CES 2024 Innovation Award-winning Pimax Crystal.
Known for its cutting-edge hardware, Pimax headsets feature ultra-high resolution, high refresh rates, an ultra-wide field of view, and advanced technologies such as QLED with mini-LED backlighting, glass aspheric lenses, proprietary SLAM tracking, and high-bandwidth bridge chips that enable visually lossless data transmission from PC to headset. These innovations have made Pimax a favorite among demanding VR enthusiasts seeking unmatched clarity and immersion. Continuing to push the limits of what VR can deliver, Pimax has introduced the Crystal Light, Crystal Super—the world’s first retina-level VR headset—and the upcoming Dream Air, further demonstrating its commitment to shaping the future of virtual reality.
