XR Weekly Roundup (December 16, 2024): Unveiling Android XR, Samsung’s Headset Debut, and More!

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news: I’m gearing up for my very first trip to CES this coming January! It’s a big deal for me, and the excitement is already building as I organize my travel plans and line up sessions to test out some intriguing AR/VR glasses. If you’re planning to attend, I’d love to connect! And if you have any tips to make the most of CES, please share them with me. I’m eager to update you on all the happenings from my experience there. Meanwhile, let’s dive into some of this week’s standout XR updates and a giveaway!

Top Stories of the Week

(Image credit: Google)

Google Unveils Android XR

Arguably the most groundbreaking news this week comes from Google, announcing Android XR. This new operating system is set to drive all XR devices, including AR glasses and smart glasses. Kicking things off is Google’s mixed-reality headset, crafted in collaboration with Samsung and Qualcomm, codenamed "Project Moohan." Other tech giants like XREAL, Sony, and Lynx are also in the mix, creating devices compatible with Android XR. Select media got a sneak peek of this OS on Project Moohan and various smart glasses. A standout feature is its use of the all-seeing Gemini AI, which seamlessly assists in both virtual and real-world contexts. For example, if you’re handed a business card, Gemini can pull up the restaurant location on a 3D Map, and, intriguingly, it offers real-time language translation during conversations. Some might find the AI’s memory recall feature—a 10-minute snapshot—both impressive and a little unsettling from a privacy standpoint. The operating system even boasts features like turning 2D media into 3D and supports multimodal commands through hand, eye, or voice controls. Developers eager to tinker with this innovation can access a preview development suite, including tools for Unity and WebXR. Details on Project Moohan are sparse, but it seems to combine elements of Quest Pro and Apple Vision Pro, powered by Qualcomm’s advanced Snapdragon XR2+ Gen2 chip, with a controller release slated for 2025. Google’s bold entry signals fresh competition and growth for the XR landscape, though there’s always that cautious hope it doesn’t end up abandoned in Google’s notorious project graveyard.

Read more about Android XR in my comprehensive roundup or Ben Lang’s editorial comparing it with Horizon OS.

Other Significant Updates

(Image credit: Meta)

Latest Quest Update Enhances Hand Tracking and More

Meta’s latest runtime v72 update brings noteworthy improvements to Quest headsets. This includes the introduction of hand tracking version 2.3, refining responsiveness in confined spaces, especially useful in travel scenarios. Additionally, the Windows Mixed Reality Link enables Quest 3 and 3S users to connect seamlessly with their Windows 11 PCs by simply glancing at them, mirroring Mac’s intuitive Vision Pro connection. The update also supports keyboard tracking via passthrough and welcomes a new Media Gallery app for enhanced media enjoyment. Users can now enter VR home environments without boundary setup, streamlining the experience. Many also welcomed direct messaging integration in the Instagram app. Personally, the Windows 11 connectivity stands out as a game-changer for productivity, rivaling Apple’s Mac integration—I’m eager to give it a spin.

For more insights, check out the resources on Meta Quest runtime v72 by Road To VR and Upload VR, including a guide on connecting Quest with a Windows 11 PC.

Noteworthy Mentions

(Image credit: Apple)

Omdia’s Less Than Bright Forecast for XR in 2025

According to Omdia’s latest report, the XR market faces a slump, with a 10% drop in headset sales expected this year, dipping further in 2025. However, they’re hopeful for resurgence in 2026. While this prediction seems accurate, especially given the slow and steady industry growth since 2023, as evidenced by products like Ray-Ban meta and Android XR’s launch, it’s all a matter of perspective.

You can read more about Omdia’s analysis in the Financial Times and on LinkedIn.

The Viral Success of Gorilla Tag

A fascinating read by XR investor JP Minetos on the rise of Gorilla Tag highlights its social interaction dynamics, unique movement mechanics, and naturally engaging, meme-worthy gameplay, all contributing to its massive popularity.

Explore more about Gorilla Tag’s journey.

Special Offer: Quest 3S

For those yet to hop on the Quest bandwagon, the Quest 3S (256 GB) is available for a steal at $400 on Amazon US and other regions, complete with a $30 digital credit, running until Christmas.

Discover more about this deal.

Batman Triumphs at The Game Awards

This year, Batman: Arkham Shadow took home the accolade for Best VR/AR Game during The Game Awards, a testament to its remarkable impact on the VR scene.

For more details on this win, see the award video or the celebratory Meta blog post.

Content News Highlights

• Fallout London VR looks to introduce VR love to the expansive ‘Fallout: London’s DLC.
• Path of Fury: Episode I — Tetsuo’s Tower, punch-through 80s Kung Fu inspired action is set for 2025 on Quest 2/3/Pro, priced at $9.99.
• Bridge Constructor in XR format for $10.
• Behemoth patch addresses several bugs, enhancing gameplay.
• Clone Drone in the Hyperdome, is now available for $20.
• Realize Music: Sing combines rhythm, wellness, and VR on Meta Quest, launching in January 2025.
• Experience horror in Panic Room MR, summoning creatures through mixed reality on Quest 3/3S for just $5.
• X8 Contra: Super Wall Storm merges classic Contra with VR for $20.
• Crystal Commanders RTS hits Quest on February 27, 2025.
• Explore early access for Mecha Force, inspired by classic anime on Quest.
• DodgeCraft offers a new VR sports training experience on Quest.
• Dive into oceanic exploration with Beyond Blue: After the Storm in VR.
• Human Fall Flat VR prototype mode is available for beta testing on Steam.
• Upload VR’s XR News Round-Up rolls out more minor XR updates.

If interested, find additional details in the respective info links.

Reviews Round-Up

• Metamorphosis VR boasts an innovative concept with impressive visuals, yet needs polish.
• Action Hero reimagines SuperHot mechanics for a balanced mix appealing to VR novices and veterans alike.
• Home Sports serves a fun blend for social VR but lacks depth in its games.
• Rogue Piñatas: VRmageddon flips the script on typical zombie-killing games with a fun family-friendly approach.

Check out the reviews for a more in-depth perspective.

Extra News Tidbits

• Rob Cole delivers an extensive review of Pimax Crystal Light.
• Norman Mueller provides updates on smart and AR glasses.
• Apple’s latest VisionOS 2.2 introduces the Ultrawide Virtual Display.
• NeoGrip offers customizable, open-source controllers for VR.
• Unity opens applications for the Humanity 2025 grant competition.
• Into The Scaniverse offers virtual tours in reconstructed environments using Gaussian Splats.

Discover more through the provided links for each update.

Partner and Community News

Interested in investing? Vitruvian VR invites you to join its exciting venture with a starting investment of €250. The unique simulator promises an immersive experience akin to outer space adventures.

Check out the crowdfunding page and read my review to understand the venture’s potential.

Giving away Iron Rebellion keys, a thrilling mecha game on Quest and Steam! If you missed out on claiming a key, consider supporting the developers by purchasing the game.

Unwind with some fun XR topics such as possible configurations for Quest 4 and humorous VR-themed comics.

Spreading Good Will

This week’s closing note isn’t solicitations for my blog. Instead, I encourage supporting those enduring the fallout of war. Please consider donating to the Red Cross to aid the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. A heartfelt shoutout to my Patreon supporters for their invaluable backing, enabling continued content creation.

Huge thanks to my Patreon patrons, including names like Alex Gonzalez, DeoVR, GenVR, and many more. Your ongoing support is deeply appreciated, and you’re vital to sustaining this journey.

Support those in need by donating to the Red Cross in Ukraine.

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