Definition: video headphones

A set of video goggles with attached headphones. Used for gaming and watching movies, video headphones provide a somewhat immersive experience for the user. Video headphones attach directly to TVs, Blu-ray players and other HDMI devices as well as smartphones and tablets via adapters.

Although video headphones may support 3D modes that display stereo content and even support head tracking, they are not bona fide virtual reality devices. They are a substitute for watching a large screen just as headphones are a substitute for shelf and floor speakers. See VR headset, 3D glasses, head mounted display, virtual reality and augmented reality.

Avegant Glyph Video Headphones

Plugged into any HDMI device, Avegant's Glyph simulates a huge 2D or 3D home theater. Creating a highly immersive experience, Avegant's Retinal Imaging Technology uses microscopic mirrors to beam 720p images directly onto the viewer's retina. (Images courtesy of Avegant.)