This past week has been a whirlwind of activity in the tech world, particularly with titans like Apple, Meta, Google, and Valve making headlines. There’s plenty to cover, so stick with me to the end where there’s a chance to snag keys for a cool mixed reality game giveaway! And if you’re interested, my recent piece on the XR landscape in China is definitely worth a look, especially with my upcoming Shanghai trip!
Top News of the Week
Headsets might dodge US tariffs
The US tariff climate is like quicksand lately, impossible to pin down. For XR headsets, it’s a waiting game. However, companies like Pimax and BigScreen have stepped up, pledging to cushion the tariff blow for consumers. BigScreen’s move to fully absorb the costs is commendable, while Pimax will impose only a partial regional charge for US buyers. It’s a relief since keeping headset prices down is crucial for the XR market’s growth. Word on the street, as per Upload VR, implies XR headsets might actually gain full exemption from these tariffs. Although it’s early to celebrate, as there’s speculation about new chip tariffs that could muddy the waters.
Other Relevant News
Apple Vision Pro 2 and the AR Glasses Rumor Mill
The Apple Vision Pro has shifted into nostalgia mode as fresh rumors about the Vision Pro 2 heat up. A Chinese source claims production on key components like panels and shells has begun. Meanwhile, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg stirs the pot with hints of not one, but two headsets—a Vision Pro refresh and a lighter, more affordable Mac-connected device. However, the real buzz concerns AR glasses. Tim Cook’s energy is reportedly laser-focused on launching AR glasses, edging out Meta in the process. This contest could take years, yet the stakes just keep getting higher.
Valve’s Headset Developments: Enter Deckard
Rumors, courtesy of Brad Lynch, suggest Valve is setting up to manufacture facial interfaces for a new VR headset, likely ‘Deckard.’ Valve hasn’t confirmed anything, but Lynch’s discovery of US-imported manufacturing equipment speaks volumes. If accurate, we might see Deckard hit the shelves sooner rather than later. Meanwhile, a website has surfaced, helping fans keep tabs on Deckard’s launch status—talk about anticipation building!
Google and Samsung Eye 2026 for Glasses Launch
Word is that Google and Samsung, working on Android XR devices, have adjusted their timelines for smartglasses. Pushed to 2026, these updated specs are said to pack in displays, cameras, and AI capabilities—a step up from the Ray-Ban Meta-like proposition. It seems like a logical jump, propelling them ahead rather than playing catch-up with Meta’s endeavors.
AltspaceVR is Being Rebooted
A chance scroll through Reddit revealed ambitions to resurrect AltspaceVR, thanks to Danny Mac, who’s breathing new life into the platform using open-source tools. While the project is still in early stages, the nostalgic pull of AltspaceVR’s community-driven vibe is promising. Details remain scant, but stay tuned—I’m on a mission to dig deeper and will keep you informed through my newsletter!
News Worth a Mention
In-Flight VR Entertainment with Meta
Meta’s successful pilot VR entertainment program with Lufthansa is ready for takeoff with other airlines. With 4,000 passengers already enjoying immersive content, VR might soon become a travel staple. Who wouldn’t want a VR headset for some fun at home after experiencing it mid-flight?
Varjo Eyes on Enterprise
Steering clear of the consumer market, Varjo has found its niche in enterprise sectors, mainly military and aeronautics. As it thrives in these domains, a consumer-oriented successor seems unlikely for now.
Pico’s Newest Tracker: The Waist Edition
ByteDance’s Pico introduces a waist tracker, promoting enhanced accuracy for full-body VR experiences. This latest gadget is priced at €50/£40 and could be a game-changer for immersive interaction.
Typing in XR: The XR TEXT Trove
In an impressive collaboration, researchers have compiled over 170 text entry techniques for XR, offering invaluable resources for both academic and UX design fields.
Meta Tightens Horizon Worlds’ Hold
Many users are frustrated with Horizon Worlds’ forced presence on Quest, made even more intrusive with Meta’s new persistent installation update. Complaints abound, yet Meta pushes ahead, even introducing device tracking for ad targeting. The feedback loop with consumers seems to be missing here.
Sound-Based Motion Sickness Relief
In an intriguing study, researchers have found that a peculiar sound frequency could help alleviate motion sickness. Applied to the inner ear, this discovery could offer temporary relief—a promising thought for those affected by VR-induced nausea.
Spring Sale: Meta Quest 3S Discounts
Meta Quest 3S is on sale until April 26 with tempting price cuts and a bundle of bonuses, including a Batman game and three months of Quest+ subscription. It’s puzzling why such a popular product is being discounted—is it strategic or a sign of slowing demand?
Content Highlights
Here’s what’s fresh and upcoming in VR content:
- Besiege is all set for its Quest launch this May.
- Dimensional Double Shift moves past open beta with exciting Texas-themed DLC.
- GORN 2 and Silent North are ready to make waves on different VR platforms.
- Starvault VR and more titles are gearing up for debuts, ensuring a vibrant gaming season ahead.
Insightful Reviews
- The rhythm game Beatable is making headlines for its innovative haptic feedback system.
- The Midnight Walk stands out for its stunning art, and Train Sim World VR offers an engaging balance of realism in VR.
- Meanwhile, Crystal Commander and Aces Of Thunder show promise in their respective previews.
Other News
- DaVinci Resolve 20 now supports editing for Apple Immersive Video.
- Hyperfy emerges as a strong contender in the world-creation platform arena with its robust WebXR capabilities.
- Daniel Eckert’s series on the challenges of enterprise VR is garnering attention for its insightful take.
News from Partners and Friends
Delve into Alex And The Jets, a delightful mixed reality game where your living room transforms into an aerial battlefield. Support the indie developers or just grab it for free if you’re quick with one of the gift codes!
Fun in XR
Catch the lighter side of XR with quirky memes, hilarious AI-generated content, and more.
A Call to Aid
In these challenging times, let’s extend our help to those who need it most. Contributing to the Red Cross in Ukraine can make a significant difference. And a huge thank you to my Patreon supporters, who help keep this space alive and thriving.
(Header image by Pimax)
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