The Chinese Singles’ Day has just passed (hope you had a good one if you’re celebrating!) and as the chill of colder weather sets in, I’m cozying up with a hot drink to bring you the week’s most exciting XR developments.
Top News of the Week
The Hype for Smartglasses Continues
Following the success of Ray-Ban Meta, the smartglasses scene is buzzing with interest. Apple, not one to be left behind, is reportedly developing its own intelligent eyewear, with a tentative release planned for 2027, according to Mark Gurman. Although specifics are sketchy, these new glasses are said to feature AI capabilities to help users interact with their environment. Apple’s unique brand appeal could make these a must-have item for many, despite the fashion-forward competition from Ray-Ban Meta. Meanwhile, giants like Samsung and Google are also in on the act, and word has it that Baidu might steal the show at their annual event in Shanghai with smartglasses that boast advanced features like integrated cameras and voice interaction.
Meta isn’t resting on its laurels, either. It’s bolstering its Ray-Ban Meta lineup by launching dedicated pop-up stores in LA, with another opening soon in Phoenix. These aren’t just regular stores but experiential hubs with events ranging from live comedy to workshops. As the smartglasses trend skyrockets, only time will tell if it’s another passing fad or a tech staple that’s here to stay.
Learn More (Apple exploring smartglasses) Learn More (Baidu’s potential launch) Learn More (Meta’s pop-up stores)
Other Relevant News
Meta is Allegedly Cutting Funding for Gaming Content
Meta is reportedly reallocating funds from its gaming content to emphasize lifestyle XR experiences. This shift has led to cuts, impacting studios like Monks and Atlas V, resulting in significant layoffs. It’s disheartening to see these changes affect people’s livelihoods. Perhaps Meta could have handled this transition more gently. However, this move seems aligned with their vision of being the next go-to platform for everyday utilities, beyond just gaming.
News Worth Mentioning
DIY AR Glasses
Tech enthusiast Miroslav Kotalík has impressed many by creating his own AR glasses prototype powered by Raspberry Pi Zero. This innovative device, aptly named Zero, can manage various multimedia tasks. He’s planning to upgrade it further with a Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 for even more functionalities. Follow Miroslav on X for ongoing project updates—this personal endeavor could be an exciting glimpse into the future of DIY tech.
Apple Unveils Panoramic Display for Vision Pro
With the release of VisionOS 2.2 beta, Apple introduces an ultra-wide virtual display that can mimic the span of two 4K monitors. This advance is poised to revolutionize productivity for Mac users by removing the need for physical ultrawide screens. The catch, however, is the lack of suitable window management on Macs, requiring third-party solutions for optimal use.
LIV’s Creator Kit for Quest
LIV has unveiled a Unity SDK enabling creators to capture footage in VR from a third-person perspective, a boon for social media content producers. By simplifying this capability, LIV is saving developers significant effort, enhancing applications like Gorilla Tag, which just integrated this feature.
EgoTouch’s Innovative Interface
EgoTouch is breaking new ground by allowing users to interact with their devices using their palms as touchscreens. This novel approach, which distinguishes simple touch from actual pressure, offers a new dimension to virtual interfaces.
Osmo’s Scent Teleportation Breakthrough
Osmo has made headlines with its innovative "scent teleportation" technology. By capturing and transmitting scent data, they claim to replicate odors at remote locations, marking a significant leap in olfactory digitalization. While it’s far from perfect, the implications for virtual reality experiences are exciting.
PlayStation Store Sale
If you’re a PSVR 2 owner, now’s the time to expand your game library—PlayStation Store has slashed prices, with some titles over 40% off.
Metro Awakening Buzz
Metro Awakening is the talk of the gaming community, praised for its immersive environments, although it faces criticism for minor mechanical issues and monotony in later stages. Noteworthy is the developers’ decision to add a spider-free mode for arachnophobic players.
Spatial DJing with djay on Meta Quest
Algoriddim’s djay app has landed on Meta Quest, bringing spatial DJing to the VR world. With a rich library and VR-compatible gear, it delivers an immersive DJing experience that’s sure to delight music enthusiasts.
News About Content
Some notable upcoming releases and updates include Alien: Rogue Incursion’s delay, the debut of Human Within, and new interactive experiences across various platforms. Keep an eye out for these diverse offerings that promise engaging gameplay and novel experiences.
Content Reviews
This section highlights recent reviews, from the quirky chaos of Human Fall Flat VR to Underworld Overseer’s strategic depth. Each game offers unique charm, albeit with areas for improvement.
Other News
Photon introduced a new multiplayer collaboration sample in mixed reality. Meanwhile, a petition for open-sourcing WMR garners modest support, and Julie Smithson takes the helm as CEO of METAVRSE.
News from Partners and Friends
Exciting events like MatchXR in Helsinki and a VR Jam in Slovenia are on the horizon, offering opportunities to delve deeper into the XR space. These gatherings promise insightful discussions and the latest in VR tech.
XR Fun
Delve into the lighter side of XR with humorous insights on development time savings, and VR solutions for everyday tasks like hair combing.
Donate for Good
This week, I urge support for those affected by conflict. The Red Cross is working tirelessly to address humanitarian needs in Ukraine, and your donations can make a difference.
(Header image by Miroslav Kotalík)
In conclusion, the XR field is abuzz with innovation and potential. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you to all who contribute to this growing community.
