Sony's XYN XR headset used differently at CES 2025.

At CES 2024, the technology world was abuzz with the unveiling of a prototype AR/VR headset from Sony, designed specifically for “spatial content creation.” Concurrently, Siemens announced a collaboration with Sony to leverage this innovative hardware in what they termed the “industrial metaverse.” Fast forward to CES 2025, and both companies have showcased their headsets and associated software, shedding light on their ambitious visions.

 During Sony’s press conference at CES, the company introduced its new XYN brand, which encompasses a range of software and hardware solutions. Central to this offering is the XYN headset, which operates as a “spatial capture solution.” This technology utilizes mirrorless cameras to scan and create photorealistic 3D objects. The XYN headset allows users to visualize these objects within 3D production software, opening avenues for animation, video game development, and beyond.

I had the opportunity to experience the XYN headset firsthand and explore several scanned 3D objects. While the demonstration was not without its challenges—an all-too-common occurrence in VR experiences—I was immersed in a pre-constructed animated world. I was able to import a geode-like crystal object that had been scanned using the spatial capture tools, manipulating it within the virtual environment. The flexibility to resize the object, from a colossal structure to a diminutive pebble, was particularly striking.

The headset itself felt robust and well-engineered for a prototype. A notable feature is the display that flips up, allowing users to quickly transition back to the real world. The headband was comfortable and secure, although it remains to be seen how it would perform during extended use. The controller, while responsive and thoughtfully designed, presented a slight learning curve due to its unconventional shape, which is optimized for pointing but less intuitive for grasping objects.

Though the demo may not have been revolutionary, it effectively illustrated the complete XYN pipeline—from capturing a 3D object to its manipulation and integration into a virtual environment. Sony has indicated that the headset and controllers are still in the prototype stage, yet it is reasonable to anticipate announcements regarding public availability shortly.

In a parallel development, Siemens revealed that the same headset and controllers are now available for purchase, albeit with a distinct focus on industrial applications. The term “industrial metaverse,” coined by Siemens last year, was further clarified during the event. Initially developed for internal use by designers and engineers, the headset was optimized in collaboration with Siemens to enhance the experience for enterprise customers.

Siemens spotlighted its augmented reality capabilities, demonstrating how users could utilize its NX Immersive Designer software in conjunction with the headset as a virtual workspace. This setup allows for the enlargement and manipulation of 3D objects during the design process. Transitioning into VR mode provides users the ability to navigate around full-sized objects, offering a tangible sense of scale. In one particularly engaging demonstration, I was able to explore large-scale 3D models of airplanes, showcasing the practical applications of this technology—even if the models themselves lacked intricate details.

the collaboration between Sony and Siemens at CES 2025 marks a significant step forward in the realm of spatial content creation and industrial applications. By merging cutting-edge AR/VR technology with practical design tools, both companies are poised to redefine how professionals and creators engage with 3D environments. As these technologies continue to evolve, the potential for innovation in various industries appears boundless.