Pimax Introduces Software Subscription to Offset Costs Amid US-China Trade Tensions

Pimax, a renowned name in the VR headset arena and based in China, has recently shed light on how the ongoing US-China trade conflict is affecting its operations, particularly with its cutting-edge Crystal Super VR headset. Due to the tensions, customers in the US might notice a slight increase in prices. However, Pimax’s new subscription payment model seems to be cushioning these added costs.

Unveiled in April 2024, the Crystal Super represents Pimax’s flagship VR offering, boasting a 57 PPD base version with high-quality QLED panels. This device supports a resolution of 3,840 x 3,840 pixels per eye and provides users with an immersive 120-degree field-of-view. As of now, it’s available for pre-order, and deliveries should kick off soon.

Amidst this, the US has imposed a towering 145% tariff on all Chinese-manufactured goods, which poses a significant challenge for XR headset makers globally, considering China’s role as a manufacturing powerhouse. Pimax is among the first in this sector to adjust their pricing strategy in response to this development.

On their blog, Pimax detailed what American customers can expect from these new tariffs. Surprisingly, the situation might not be as bleak as anticipated. Orders placed in the US before February 4th, 2025, will incur no additional tariff-related costs. However, customers might face a shipping delay of about 20 days due to bulk transport to US warehouses.

For those ordering between February 4th and April 10th, a $75 ‘Regional Surcharge’ will apply, which Pimax claims helps with the rising shipping expenses. Starting April 10th, new US orders will see a $95 surcharge, and deliveries are expected by June. Pimax is also setting up a facility in Delaware to manage final assembly tasks.

Despite these changes, the overall cost of the Crystal Super remains stable. Recent adjustments in their pricing model, even with the introduction of a subscription-based software pricing system, aid in mitigating the impact of tariffs. The initial price for the Pimax Crystal Super has been slashed to $799, with the remaining $885 distributed over time through Pimax Play with Prime, bringing the total to $1,684 (excluding the US-exclusive $95 surcharge).

Globally, the change is mostly symbolic. Previously, the headset was priced at $999, with an additional $696 for Prime, totaling $1,695. Now, international prices mirror the reduced upfront cost. Pimax also emphasizes that their 14-day trial policy remains unchanged, which could make the Crystal Super more appealing outside the US, as potential buyers need less initial capital. Plus, it’s refundable if returned within the trial period unless Prime is necessary for continued use.

Pimax has found a way to balance its costs using its pricey yet effective subscription model. This flexibility is something other giants like Meta don’t currently have, as Meta often subsidizes hardware to make its software more appealing. While Meta hasn’t announced any tariff-driven price changes, they previously hiked the price of the Quest 2 from $300 to $400 during the COVID-19 surge in 2022. Time will tell how they respond to these new challenges.

Stay tuned, as we’ll keep a close eye on how these trade tariffs continue to shape the XR hardware landscape. Check back soon for more updates.