Simula

Overview

SimulaVR develops Linux-based standalone VR headsets optimized for productivity and knowledge work, distinguishing them from gaming-focused devices. The company offers the Simula One, featuring high-resolution displays, a detachable Intel x86 compute pack comparable to premium laptops, and a VR-specialized Linux distro for clear text rendering.¹²⁵

History

SimulaVR was founded in 2019 by George Singer, initially as an open-source VR window manager available on GitHub for use with headsets like Valve Index and HTC Vive.²³ The project pivoted to hardware with the announcement of the Simula One, a standalone VR computer targeting programmers and developers.³ Preorders opened in February 2022, with a shipping target no earlier than Q4 and a price of $2699.¹⁵

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Manufacturing details are not specified in available sources; the headset uses an Intel i7 chip and is produced as a standalone portable device.⁵

Notable Products

• Simula One - Standalone VR headset with 2448x2448 per eye resolution, 100° FOV, detachable Intel compute pack, Linux VR distro, hand tracking, and AR passthrough.
• SimulaOS - Open-source VR Linux distro and window manager optimized for productivity in VR, installable on SteamVR headsets.

Reputation

SimulaVR is perceived by developers and VR enthusiasts as an innovative niche player targeting productivity over gaming, praised for its high specs like Intel x86 architecture and text-optimized displays.²³⁵ Criticisms center on its high price of $2699 and lack of shipping progress since 2022 preorders, with no confirmed deliveries as of available data.¹⁵ Professionals note its potential for Linux-based knowledge work but question practicality compared to traditional setups.²