August 19th, 2025 | By Jenni Ryan

Is Your FPV Gear Stuck in the 19th Century?

Earlier this spring, I went to an exhibit in Oslo about the 1800s when I noticed a display of lenses that looks exactly like what is being used in VR headsets and drone goggles today!

Handheld Stereoscopic Headset from 19th Century in Oslo, Norway




These devices, popularized in the 19th century, relied on stereoscopic lenses: two separate lenses positioned side-by-side to create the illusion of depth when looking at a pair of slightly offset photographs.What’s remarkable is how little has changed.

Over 150 years later, the stereoscopic lens design remains the standard in virtual reality headsets, FPV drone goggles, and other 3D devices. Whether you’re slipping on a VR headset or strapping into drone goggles, the basic principle is still the same from centuries ago: two lenses, two images, one brain tricked into perceiving 3D.

A Brief History on Stereoscopic Lenses

From the 1800s to Today: A Timeline of Innovation

 - 1838: Wheatstone’s first stereoscope demonstrates binocular vision.

- 1849: Brewster’s portable design spreads worldwide; stereoscopes become a must-have in Victorian homes.

- 20th Century: The stereoscopic principle powers 3D cinema, View-Masters, and early VR experiments.

- Today: Most VR headsets still use the same dual-lens concept that were popularised in the 19th century!

Why Is This A Problem?

Stereoscopic setups often cause eye strain, split-image distortion, and reduced screen resolution, since each eye only receives half of the available display. Many people end up experiencing motion sickness!

DroneMask: The Future of FPV & VR

After nearly of 200 years of no significant changes in headset and goggle lenses, the creators of DroneMask is bringing FPV and VR gear into the 21st century. 

Just as the stereoscope once opened people’s eyes to the world, DroneMask is opening a new chapter for drone pilots—one where immersion meets clarity, comfort, and innovation.

Instead of relying on the same old stereoscopic trick, DroneMask introduces a patented uni-lens system—a single large lens that lets pilots view their entire smartphone screen in crisp, full resolution.Full-screen immersion: Unlike stereoscopic goggles, DroneMask doesn’t cut your resolution in half.

- No eye strain: The uni-lens design eliminates the visual discomfort common with dual-lens systems.

 - Universal compatibility: DroneMask works with most camera drones, including DJI, Autel, and Parrot, using the pilot’s smartphone as the display.

 - Lightweight & portable: By simplifying the lens system, DroneMask offers comfort and mobility without sacrificing immersion.

Man Using DroneMask with DJI RC Controller

This makes DroneMask the only drone and VR headset on the market that combines cinematic immersion with practical simplicity—a true evolution in a field that has been stagnant for more than a century.

For drone pilots, this means sharper visuals, greater comfort, and a more intuitive flying experience—whether you’re shooting cinematic landscapes or simply enjoying the freedom of flight.

- By Jenni Ryan, Marketing Manager of Immerse Optics

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