Zapbox has an $80 mixed reality headset.

Zapbox introduces mixed reality experiences at CES 2024

Zapbox introduced mixed reality (MR) experiences at CES 2024, including spatial video integration and apps such as chess.

Spatial video support was initially showcased at Apple’s Wanderlust event and now Zapbox is bringing it to its own low-cost MR headset, which sells for $80. It is also adding two immersive MR experiences, Zapbox: Chess and Open Brush app.

This spatial video integration, exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users, enables the Apple users to record and view 3D videos, delivering an immersive experience previously unheard of in this price bracket.

Zapbox: Chess is an MR experience.

Zapbox: Chess –is an MR adaptation of the classic game of chess. This immersive 3D experience not only revitalizes the game but also allows for interactive play, whether with friends in the same room or across distances. The game includes an AI chessbot named Casparov, promising engaging and challenging gameplay.

The chess game leverages the six degree of freedom (6-DoF) controllers for a seamless and realistic chess experience. It enables personalization with multiple board styles and hand designs that offer users the freedom to tailor their gaming encounters.

Open Brush

Spatial video on Zapbox.

The upcoming Open Brush app enables creation and manipulation of 3D models within the Zapbox environment. This tool empowers both amateur and seasoned 3D artists to sculpt, paint, and craft in an immersive MR setting. With user-friendly tools and Zapbox’s state-of-the-art MR technology, users can bring their creative visions to life within their own spaces.

The app offers an array of brushes and an intricate color picker, enabling users to craft intricate and vibrant 3D models.

These latest offerings from Zapbox underline the company’s dedication to democratizing MR technology.

Dean Takahashi

Dean Takahashi is editorial director for GamesBeat at VentureBeat. He has been a tech journalist since 1988, and he has covered games as a beat since 1996. He was lead writer for GamesBeat at VentureBeat from 2008 to April 2025. Prior to that, he wrote for the San Jose Mercury News, the Red Herring, the Wall Street Journal, the Los Angeles Times, and the Dallas Times-Herald. He is the author of two books, "Opening the Xbox" and "The Xbox 360 Uncloaked." He organizes the annual GamesBeat Next, GamesBeat Summit and GamesBeat Insider Series: Hollywood and Games conferences and is a frequent speaker at gaming and tech events. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.