Pico 4 does not offer native PC VR connectivity, but wireless streaming via Virtual Desktop works

Pico 4 does not offer native PC VR connectivity, but wireless streaming via Virtual Desktop works

The Pico 4 isn't for PC VR purists, since it doesn't offer lossless data transfer via cable. But you can use Virtual Desktop for wireless VR streaming.

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The unveiling of the new VR headset caused disappointment among PC VR fans: Unlike its predecessor Pico Neo 3 Link, Pico 4 does not offer a DisplayPort and thus does not support uncompressed video and audio via cable connection.

There will also be no video streaming via UBS-C, Pico told us, although there are hints of cable-based PC VR streaming on the official website and on YouTube. The next few days should bring clarity.

As a reason for the lack of native PC VR connectivity, Pico points to the older VR headset, which is meant for PC VR players. Pico 4 (preview) is exclusively for mobile virtual reality applications, the company says.

That's not quite true, though, because Pico plans to launch a Wi-Fi dongle for PC VR streaming next year. Standard PC VR streaming via Wi-Fi does not yet work as well as the competition's, which is why Pico is trying out the accessory.

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Virtual Desktop offers great wireless streaming and access to exclusive Oculus products

Until the dongle hits the market, Pico 4 buyers can fall back on an excellent alternative: Virtual Desktop. Developer Guy Godin confirmed via Twitter that Virtual Desktop will be released for the Pico 4 and the older Pico Neo 3 Link. Thus, nothing should stand in the way of high-quality PC VR streaming - provided that the own network offers enough performance.

Virtual Desktop does more than PC VR streaming: it simplifies working on the PC from VR, can simulate a virtual home theater (guide) for 2D and 3D content, and streams immersive videos in all conceivable formats into the VR headset.

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It also offers special rendering techniques like Synchronous Spacewarp (SSW), which enables a smoother VR experience on weaker PCs or with particularly demanding VR apps. Godin already confirmed via Twitter that Pico 4 will support SSW.

He also confirmed that PC VR games can be streamed through Meta's Rift store, including exclusive VR hits like Asgard's Wrath, Lone Echo, and Medal of Honor: Above & Beyond.