The XR Weekly Update (11/12/2024): Surge in Smartglasses Popularity, Meta Reduces Game Investments, and More!

The Chinese singles’ day has just wrapped up (happy holiday to all the single folks out there!), and as the weather starts to chill here, I’m cozy with a hot drink, ready to dive into some of the most intriguing XR news from the past week.

Top news of the week

(Image by Ray-Ban)

The hype for smartglasses continues

Following the buzz created by Ray-Ban Meta, it appears everyone is now exploring smartglasses. Mark Gurman’s recent report reveals that Apple is on board, developing its own version to rival Ray-Ban Meta, with aspirations of a 2027 launch. While details are limited, Gurman hints at AI-powered capabilities to interpret user surroundings. Apple’s entry into this market could shake things up, considering Luxottica’s collaboration with Meta for a fashionable edge, whereas Apple’s brand alone attracts a distinct consumer allure. Not to be left behind, Samsung and Google are also in the smartglasses race. Meanwhile, Baidu is expected to unveil its own version at its annual Baidu World event in Shanghai, boasting features like built-in cameras and voice interaction using Baidu’s Ernie model. Meta isn’t slowing down either, having launched a Ray-Ban Meta pop-up store in LA, with plans for Phoenix next. These stores promise more than just retail, featuring events like comedy shows, workshops, and interactive sessions. The question remains, though: is this a passing trend, or are smartglasses cementing their place in tech? Only time can tell.

Meta is allegedly cutting funding for gaming content

According to The Information, Meta is reworking its XR content strategy, reducing its support for gaming and shifting towards lifestyle content instead. This strategic pivot has led to funding cuts for its gaming partners, resulting in significant layoffs at studios like Monks in the Netherlands and Altas V in France. It’s disheartening news; imagine the shock for those relying on consistent funding, only to face drastic changes and layoffs. While unfortunate, this move likely signals Meta’s intent to pivot from gaming to more daily utility applications, aiming for dominance in the realm of everyday tech usage rather than reimagining the gaming console.

Other relevant news

(Image by Meta)

Someone built cheap AR glasses by himself

Miroslav Kotalík took on the impressive feat of designing his own pair of AR glasses from scratch. Calling his creation “Zero,” this prototype employs a Raspberry Pi Zero, allowing users to play videos, display images, and listen to music through Bluetooth headphones. Kotalík is now upgrading to the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4, promising features like YouTube and Spotify streaming. If this kind of DIY project piques your interest, catch his updates on his X account!

Apple releases the Panoramic Display Feature on Vision Pro

Apple’s VisionOS 2.2 beta introduces a groundbreaking feature: a virtual ultra-wide screen displayed on Vision Pro that allows users to operate their Mac as if they had two 4K monitors side by side. It’s a thrilling update that’s been eagerly anticipated, considering the steep cost of ultra-wide monitors, especially among designers. Early feedback is overwhelmingly positive, although there’s a hitch—Mac’s lack of native ultrawide monitor support requires third-party solutions.

LIV releases Creator Kit for Quest

LIV’s new Unity SDK brings a significant upgrade, enabling developers to integrate seamless third-person VR footage capture on Quest. Through a handy virtual tablet, players and creators can now record their VR experiences without needing an external PC. This tool, as confirmed by Gorilla Tag’s recent integration announcement, simplifies what usually takes developers weeks to implement.

EgoTouch lets you use your palm as a touchscreen

In a unique twist on creating tactile feedback in virtual environments, EgoTouch lets users turn their palm into a functional touchscreen. This intriguing interface not only detects touch but differentiates between touch and pressure, offering reliable feedback that feels remarkably natural.

Osmo claims to have performed “scent teleportation”

Osmo is pushing the boundaries of digital scent technology, boasting a “scent teleportation” feat. By digitizing a scent from one location and recreating it at another, Osmo attempts to offer a sensory experience like no other. Although the process is still in its infancy—slow, costly, and limited in replicating scents—the potential applications for VR smell experiences are thrilling to consider.

Enjoy the sale of content on the PlayStation Store

Don’t miss out on the huge PlayStation Store sale, featuring discounts of over 40% on several PSVR 2 games. It’s the perfect time to expand your gaming library if you own a PSVR 2 headset!

Metro Awakening is the game of the moment

Following the success of Batman: Arkham Shadow, Metro Awakening is currently captivating gaming enthusiasts. While it’s been praised for its captivating environments, some have noted issues, such as the mechanics for accessing items and a repetitive second half. Nonetheless, kudos to the developers for including an arachnophobia mode, enhancing the game’s accessibility.

Djay brings spatial DJing to Meta Quest

Algoriddim has introduced its acclaimed djay app to Meta Quest, transforming you into a virtual DJ. With features that allow connection to real DJ equipment via USB-C, users can mix tracks in mixed reality. Known for its rich music library, djay is now embracing the VR community, promising vibrant DJ experiences.

Some news about content

• Alien: Rogue Incursion’s release for Quest 3/3S is postponed until next year, though its PCVR and PSVR versions remain set for December 19th.
• Human Within comes to Quest next January, a sci-fi VR film probing AI’s impact on humanity, featuring replayable interactive elements.
• Heroes Battle: Darksword debuts on Quest for free as an early-access 1v1 strategy game.
• Expect Nevrosa Rescape, a remake of a 2017 horror puzzle game blending escape room elements, in Quest next year.
• Vivarium, where virtual plants and pets thrive in your living room, is now on the PICO Store.
• Wall Town Wonders will be ready to launch on Quest 3 as a mixed reality town builder on November 21st.
• Zombie Army VR faces a delay, now expected next year across platforms.
• Squingle evolves with a new edition called Squingle – Legacy from November 21st.
• CROWBAR CLIMBER offers a quirky climb using crowbars, now available on Horizon Store and Steam for €6.
• Strike Rush is on a massive sale, discounted by 90% with code SR-233289 on the Meta Quest Store.
• Upload VR’s round-up of XR tidbits now goes by “XR News Bytes.”

Some reviews about content

• Human Fall Flat VR retains its signature zaniness in VR, offering chaotic yet fun group play.
• Dumb Ways: Free for All charms with its soundtrack and humor, though its minigames can wear thin over time.
• Living Room captivates with cute virtual critters in your space but needs more variety.
• Underworld Overseer brings a polished Dungeon Keeper vibe to VR, though it could benefit from a deeper story.

Other news

• Photon unveils a new free sample for multiplayer interaction in mixed reality.
• Over 3,300 signatures back a petition to open-source WMR.
• Julie Smithson is the new CEO of METAVRSE.

News from partners and friends

Come to MatchXR!

On November 19th, Helsinki hosts MatchXR, celebrating the Nordic XR scene during Slush week. Don’t miss the chance to attend this free event and connect with me and other XR enthusiasts there!

Attend the VR Jam at DeoVR!

Head to Ljubljana, Slovenia, for a VR Jam hosted by DeoVR on November 13th. Check out VR devices, including Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3S, and relish the gaming sessions and insights shared by pioneers like Ivan Varko.

Lastly, if you’re in the mood, consider donating to the Red Cross to aid those impacted by the crisis in Ukraine. Every little bit helps in handling the current humanitarian challenges.

Thanks for joining me on this XR journey—stay tuned and stay curious!