Hands-on Canon’s $20K headset and very small MR prototype

Canon recently displayed two mixed-reality headsets at the AWE expo that highlight different approaches to enterprise hardware. The first is a compact, handle-equipped optical module designed for quick interactions in public spaces like museums. Because it lacks onboard computing and straps, it functions as a grab-and-go tool. However, the current prototype is limited by a narrow field of view and relies on markers for tracking, which feels dated for a 2026 device.

The second device, the MREAL X1, carries a $20,000 price tag. This unit targets corporate users and includes a PC and a connection box for operation. Despite the high cost, the hardware struggles to compete with modern standards. Users experience low resolution per eye, a restricted field of view, and unstable tracking. The build quality of the blinders and head strap also leaves room for improvement, as the unit feels less stable than other professional-grade options available today.

While Canon is a leader in optical technology, these headsets struggle to match the performance of current market competitors. Devices like the Varjo XR-4 offer higher resolution and wider fields of view at similar price points. The MREAL X1, having launched in 2022, shows its age when compared against current consumer and enterprise hardware. For Canon to remain relevant in the mixed-reality space, their future iterations will need to address these technical bottlenecks and reduce dependence on external hardware boxes.