This week’s news in tech was all about the big guns: Apple, Meta, Google, and Valve. There’s plenty to digest, so stick around to the end for a chance to nab some keys for a nifty mixed reality game. I’m also excited to share my latest piece on the XR ecosystem in China and my upcoming journey to Shanghai!
Top News of the Week
Headsets and US Tariffs:
The whirlwind of US tariffs continues to puzzle the XR community. With frequent changes, everyone is holding their breath to see how this impacts XR headsets. In the meantime, Pimax and BigScreen are pledging to ease the tariff burden on users, with BigScreen covering the impact entirely and Pimax implementing a small surcharge. The great news? XR headsets might just be tariff-free. Thanks to the US exempting most electronics, devices like the Quest shouldn’t see price hikes. But it’s wise to stay cautious as other tariffs loom over electronic chips.
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Other Relevant News
Apple Vision Pro 2 & AR Glasses:
It’s fascinating how quickly the rumor mill turns! With the Apple Vision Pro now yesterday’s news, whispers about a successor, the Apple Vision Pro 2, are gaining steam. A Chinese magazine suggests its parts are already in production, while Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hints at two new headsets. One is a refresh of the Vision Pro with better specs, and the other, a cheaper tethered headset for enhanced Mac connectivity. But for me, the real kicker is the hint that Apple might be eyeing AR glasses, with Tim Cook reportedly making it a top priority. This could be groundbreaking for the tech landscape.
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Valve’s Stealthy Moves:
Brad Lynch sheds light on Valve quietly preparing key components for the mysterious Deckard headset. With equipment arriving to manufacture VR facial interfaces, the speculation is thick that the Deckard is advancing towards production. Given the buzz, its reveal might just be around the corner!
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Google & Samsung’s XR Vision:
In a collaboration expected to bear fruit by 2026, Google and Samsung are said to be crafting glasses with advanced features like displays and cameras, combined with AI. Initially slated for an earlier release, enhancements have pushed the timeline. The anticipation builds!
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The Comeback of AltspaceVR:
AltspaceVR is returning! Danny Mac, now steering its revival, is promising a fresh development start, seeking to recapture its appeal using the Basis VR framework. This ambitious project has everyone curious, especially about the team’s plans and funding.
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News Worth Mentioning
Meta Enhances In-Flight Entertainment:
After debuting VR entertainment with Lufthansa, Meta is expanding this experience to other airlines. With positive feedback and an award under its belt, VR on flights is set to grow, offering a fresh taste of this medium.
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Varjo’s Business Shift:
Varjo is seeing success in commercial applications, particularly in military and aeronautics training. Its focus is firmly on B2B, making a return to consumer markets unlikely for now.
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Pico’s new Motion Tracker:
ByteDance introduces a new waist tracker for enhanced accuracy in full-body tracking, priced at an affordable €50/£40. This addition to Pico’s lineup is bound to pique interest among users.
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Typing In XR:
Collaborators from various universities have put together the XR TEXT Trove, a catalog featuring over 170 XR-specific text entry techniques, a resource sure to benefit usability research and design.
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Meta’s Horizon Worlds Policy Change:
In a controversial move, Meta has blocked the uninstallation of Horizon Worlds, keeping its content front and center. This decision comes alongside a new device ID aimed at targeted advertising.
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A Breakthrough in Motion Sickness Relief:
Recent research suggests that unique sound frequencies can mitigate motion sickness, potentially offering a two-hour reprieve. This could be a game-changer for VR users prone to discomfort.
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Spring Sale at Meta:
With significant discounts on the Meta Quest 3S, now might be the time for those interested in VR to make a purchase. The promotion runs until April 26th, bundling in extra goodies like games and subscriptions.
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Content Highlights
Here’s a taste of what’s new in the gaming world:
- ‘Besiege’ is heading to Quest.
- ‘Dimensional Double Shift’ exits beta with new DLC.
- ‘FastHands’ promises parkour thrills.
- ‘GORN 2’ and ‘Silent North’ enhance the VR lineup.
- ‘FRENZIES’ heads for a full release soon.
More updates are flowing in, and developers are pushing the envelope in both creativity and fun.
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Reviews
Some games making waves include:
- "Beatable" gaining praise for its haptic desk integration.
- "The Midnight Walk" stealing the spotlight with its stunning artistry.
- "Train Sim World VR" finding a balance between simulation and enjoyment.
These reviews offer a deeper dive into the experiences shaping the current VR landscape.
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Other Tidbits
- DaVinci Resolve embraces Apple Immersive Video.
- Hyperfy launches as a robust world-creation platform.
- Daniel Eckert discusses VR in enterprise settings.
- The US Army embarks on a new AR initiative.
These developments are just a few of the stories unfolding at the intersection of technology and innovation.
Giveaways and Fun
Experience the excitement with "Alex And The Jets," where you engage in whimsical battles in your living room, or dive into a collection of entertaining XR content. Codes are available for the lucky few!
And if you’re ever up for a laugh, check out some hilarious memes and creative tinkering in the XR space.
Support and Charity
As we wrap up, consider lending a hand to those impacted by conflict in Ukraine. The Red Cross is doing vital work, and your support can make a difference. While I usually encourage donations to help my blog, this week’s focus is on helping those in dire straits.
And of course, a big thank you to my Patreon supporters for their continued encouragement. Your enthusiasm acts as the heartbeat of everything I create.
For more ways to help and stay informed, check out the links below.
