PICO today officially unveiled its next-generation operating system, PICO OS 6, and offered an early preview of its upcoming flagship XR hardware, internally codenamed Project Swan.
PICO OS 6 is not merely an incremental update, but a fundamental reconstruction of the spatial operating system. Rebuilt from the ground up, it addresses long-standing friction in XR systems by enabling the seamless coexistence of 2D applications, 3D experiences, virtual environments, and physical reality within a single unified framework.
To deliver a more integrated spatial computing experience, PICO also plans to introduce a new headset that combines upgraded hardware with the enhanced operating system.
At the core of PICO OS 6 is the PICO Spatial Engine, a unified rendering architecture that represents the platform’s defining breakthrough. Over the past two years, PICO’s engineering teams have developed a core engine that transforms how graphics are processed. Unlike previous approaches where rendering occurred at the application level, the PICO Spatial Engine shifts the rendering pipeline to the operating system level. This enables the system to render 2D applications, 3D objects, virtual environments, and physical reality simultaneously while maintaining strong responsiveness. The result is a seamless flow in which multiple 3D applications and 2D windows operate harmoniously, blending virtual elements naturally into the real world.
Built upon the PICO Spatial Engine, PICO OS 6 introduces spatial multitasking. Users can collaborate on complex 3D models with colleagues represented as avatars, while keeping browsers and notes active and floating above a physical desk. The ecosystem is supported by an adaptive input system that eliminates the need for mode switching. Users can navigate with simple look-and-pinch gestures, use XR controllers for gaming, or rely on a traditional keyboard and mouse for productivity workflows. For the more than 2,600 enterprise institutions served by PICO, this architecture delivers a stable and responsive digital workspace for professional spatial collaboration.
PICO OS 6 is built on a principle of openness, grounded in the belief that spatial computing must be inclusive to thrive. The operating system supports a wide range of application ecosystems, including Spatial apps, OpenXR, WebXR, Android apps, Web apps, and PC VR streaming, treating each as an equal pillar of the platform. By continuously lowering barriers to entry, PICO aims to unite distinct ecosystems into a seamless user experience that better serves developers.
To empower developers, PICO introduces a comprehensive toolkit. The new PICO Spatial SDK (Kotlin) and UI system simplify design through component-based APIs and unified runtime adaptation. With the PICO Spatial Plugin for Android Studio and the new desktop-based PICO Emulator, developers can design, code, and test applications rapidly without requiring a headset. PICO is also democratizing spatial application creation through WebSpatial, an open-source framework that brings standard web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and React into spatial computing. This enables developers to build install-free, cross-platform applications that run seamlessly across PICO OS, VisionOS, and AndroidXR. In addition, PICO OS 6 deepens support for Unity and Unreal Engine, allowing developers to build mixed reality games that run alongside 2D and 3D applications, unlocking true multitasking during gameplay, including video calls and browsing in floating windows. All development tools are available at developer.picoxr.com.
While PICO OS 6 establishes the software foundation, the full realization of this new computing paradigm requires a major leap in hardware. Project Swan is designed to deliver that leap. The device aims to address key industry bottlenecks, beginning with visual clarity. It features a new generation of MicroOLED displays with a pixel density of nearly 4,000 PPI, approximately nine times that of flagship smartphones. The optical stack delivers an average of 40 Pixels Per Degree (PPD), with a center sweet spot exceeding 45 PPD, enabling text clarity suitable for professional workflows.
Project Swan also advances mixed reality capabilities through a unique dual-chip architecture designed to manage the complex mixed reality pipeline. The device integrates custom XR silicon that powers perception and imaging engines, fusing data from multiple sensors to construct a realistic representation of the physical world with just 12 milliseconds of latency. In addition, it features a flagship system-on-chip that delivers more than double the CPU and GPU performance compared to the current XR2 Gen 2 platform. Project Swan is targeted for a global launch in late 2026.
PICO has also launched the PICO Global Early Access Program, inviting experienced users to participate in a closed beta test for Project Swan and PICO OS 6. By recruiting pioneers with high-end device experience, the company aims to gather rigorous technical feedback to ensure strong synergy between the new operating system and flagship hardware. Applications for the early access program are now open at picoxr.com.
Founded in 2015, PICO is a leading innovator in VR and MR all-in-one technology. With a mission to bridge connections, enrich lives, and unlock infinite possibilities, the company is building an integrated XR platform that empowers creators, developers, and businesses while inspiring communities worldwide. For more information, visit PICO’s official website.
