Pico’s upcoming mixed reality headset, known as Space Pro, has cleared FCC certification, marking a key step toward its commercial release. The device’s reveal, originally scheduled for September 2nd in Beijing, was canceled just one week prior, with the company citing a focus on software upgrades. The FCC clearance indicates the device is progressing toward market availability, now expected in late 2026.

Pico’s Space Pro, previously referred to as ‘Project Swan,’ was set to debut in early September but was abruptly canceled, delaying its official reveal. Despite this, the device has now passed FCC certification, a crucial regulatory step before U.S. commercialization. The headset is designed to feature microOLED displays with an astonishing 4,000 pixels per inch (PPI) and a dual-chip architecture that combines custom XR silicon with a high-performance SoC, promising low latency and enhanced processing power.

While Pico has not announced a new specific date for the device’s reveal, it has indicated a target launch window in the fourth quarter of 2026. The postponement appears to be partly driven by a global component shortage affecting the supply chain, including increased prices for RAM, storage, and Qualcomm SoCs. Instead of proceeding with the original event, Pico expanded its ‘Global Early Access Program’ to select testers, providing pre-production units and software to a limited group, signaling a shift toward a more controlled rollout.

In addition to competing with Apple’s Vision Pro, Pico Space Pro aims to challenge Samsung’s Galaxy XR headset, which is notable for running Google’s Android XR system, and Valve’s Steam VR headset, which has yet to announce pricing or a release date. The device’s specifications and strategic delays suggest Pico is taking a cautious, quality-focused approach amid supply chain uncertainties and ongoing software development.

Implications of FCC Certification for Pico Space Pro

The FCC clearance signifies that Pico’s Space Pro is nearing readiness for the U.S. market, which is a critical step for global commercialization. This certification not only confirms the device’s compliance with regulatory standards but also indicates that the company is progressing despite the recent postponement of its official reveal. The delay, attributed to software upgrades and supply chain issues, underscores the challenges faced by XR headset manufacturers amid ongoing component shortages. The move to expand the early access program suggests Pico is prioritizing software stability and user experience before a full launch, which could influence the device’s reception and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving XR landscape.

For consumers and industry watchers, the certification and delay highlight the complex interplay between hardware innovation, regulatory approval, and supply chain dynamics. Pico’s strategic approach may set a precedent for cautious, quality-driven rollouts in the XR sector, especially as competitors like Apple and Samsung prepare to release high-profile headsets.

Background and Development of Pico Space Pro

Pico, a subsidiary of ByteDance, has been developing the Space Pro headset as a flagship device to compete in the high-end mixed reality market. Originally known as ‘Project Swan,’ the device was expected to debut in early September, with initial leaks revealing advanced specifications, including microOLED displays with 4,000 PPI and a dual-chip architecture designed for low latency and high performance. The device was positioned as a direct competitor to Apple’s Vision Pro, which was announced in June 2023, and other upcoming headsets from Samsung and Valve.

The scheduled reveal on September 2nd in Beijing was canceled abruptly, with Pico stating the delay was to allow for a ‘major upgrade to the software experience.’ Industry analysts suggest that ongoing global component shortages, especially affecting high-performance chips and memory, have also contributed to the delay. Despite the setback, the device’s recent FCC certification indicates that development is still progressing, and the company remains committed to a late-2026 launch.

Prior to the delay, leaks and official filings provided insights into the device’s core features, including its high-resolution microOLED displays and dual architecture for perception and processing. The expanded early access program indicates a focus on refining both hardware and software before the final release, which is now anticipated in Q4 2026.

Remaining Questions About Pico Space Pro Launch

It is not yet clear when Pico will officially announce a new date for the device’s reveal, or how long the supply chain issues will persist. The company has not disclosed specific details about the software upgrades or the final pricing. Additionally, the exact timing of the device’s release in Q4 2026 remains tentative, subject to further regulatory and supply chain developments. Industry observers are awaiting more concrete updates from Pico regarding these aspects.

Next Steps for Pico’s Mixed Reality Headset

Pico is expected to announce a new reveal date sometime in late 2023 or early 2024, possibly alongside further details about the device’s specifications and pricing. The company’s expanded early access program will likely continue to test and refine the hardware and software, with final production preparations underway. Industry analysts will be watching for signs of how supply chain conditions improve and whether Pico can meet its late-2026 launch target. Regulatory filings and further leaks may also provide additional insights into the device’s final features and performance.

Key Questions

When was Pico Space Pro initially supposed to be revealed?

The device was scheduled for reveal on September 2, 2023, but the event was canceled just one week prior.

What are the key features of Pico Space Pro?

The headset is expected to feature microOLED displays with 4,000 PPI, a dual-chip architecture for perception and processing, and a target launch in late 2026.

Why was the reveal canceled?

Pico stated the cancellation was to allow more time for major software upgrades, amid ongoing supply chain challenges.

When is the expected release date for Pico Space Pro?

The company has indicated a target launch in the fourth quarter of 2026, though an exact date has not been confirmed.

How does this device compare to competitors?

Pico Space Pro aims to compete with Apple’s Vision Pro, Samsung’s Galaxy XR, and Valve’s Steam VR headset, with high-resolution displays and advanced processing capabilities.

Source: Road to VR