A very interesting campaign has just been launched on Kickstarter. It concerns the multifunctional device Pimax Portal, which the manufacturer called ‘the world’s first entertainment system in the Metaverse’. However, one should not be overly suggestive of the (disgusting many) Metaverse slogan. The handheld has many more functions than just VR. It is prepared on Android and additionally works with the AMD Mini Station external design. So maybe a lot in both mobile and classic gaming.

It seems that Pimax Portal with accessories will be able to replace many other devices such as Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, Xbox Kinect or even Meta Quest 2 goggles.

According to the manufacturer, Pimax Portal is a third-generation VR device, prepared for a wide range of customers. And indeed – its functionality can make it replace even several devices. The creators, while working on the equipment, were based on 7 years of experience with their extremely competitive HMD, which is Pimax VR. Thanks to this, it was possible to create a handheld that will offer 4 functions – it will serve as a portable system for mobile games (Android, cloud gaming), a VR system (when connected to Portal View goggles), a portable computer system (when connected to AMD Mini Station or PC) and as an entertainment center, e.g. in our living room (after connecting to the TV thanks to a dedicated charging station).

The device is also impressive when it comes to the specification. We find here, for example, a 5.5-inch QLED HDR screen with a refresh rate of 144 Hz, which additionally offers fun in VR, supporting the ASW technology, which reduces latency to below 20 ms. The resolution also does not disappoint – after connecting the set to the TV (thanks to a dedicated docking station), we can choose the “resolution” of 4K (3840 x 2160 px). The heart of the device is the Snapdragon Qualcomm XR2 processor, and if we want to play typical PC games, an external station (AMD Mini Station) will come to our aid. We can also simply stream PC games to the console thanks to Pimax Airlink or via HDMI. Is it multifunctional equipment?

Interestingly, the device will come with two interchangeable sets of lenses for VR. One will offer 100-degree FOV, the other 60-degree. The first is suitable for gaming, and the second, for example, for watching movies on the go. The handheld also has a system of advanced trackers installed, thanks to which the device will offer AR, and connected to the TV it will offer functionality similar to the xbox Kinect. Among the technical details, we can also find information about the support for 5G, Bluetooth 5.1, WiFi 6.0E or WiGig 60 GHz (Intel Wireless Gigabit). The latter option is the domain of the Pimax XL – an additional screen that enlarges the Portal to 8.8 inches, and also expands the battery capacity.

As you can see, Pimax Portal is a really interesting device. A device-harvester, which I personally await with great impatience. The campaign on Kickstarter started a while ago, but the goal (PLN 900,000) has already been achieved. Handheld should appear in the first stores in January 2023. The handheld itself (Pimax Portal) is expected to cost around $399 (8+128 GB version with LCD screen) or $649 (8+256 GB version with QLED screen). For a set with goggles (Portal View) you will have to pay more or less $ 150. You could write and write about the equipment, but it’s best if you get to know its details yourself on the already mentioned kickstarter page (click).

Source: Pimax