The XR Weekly Update (November 12, 2024): Surge in Smartglasses, Meta Reduces Game Funding, and Other Highlights!

Just as the Chinese Singles’ Day wraps up (a shout-out to all our single friends celebrating!), the chillier weather is settling in here. With a warm cup of something delicious by my side, I’m excited to dive into this week’s most compelling XR news for you!

Top News of the Week

(Image by Ray-Ban)

The Ongoing Buzz About Smartglasses

The buzz around smartglasses is showing no sign of slowing down. With Ray-Ban Meta setting the tone, everyone appears to be getting in on the action. Notably, Mark Gurman has hinted that Apple is behind closed doors crafting their own version. Expected to rival Ray-Ban Meta, this could be a big revelation by 2027. While details are scant, Gurman suggests these glasses will be AI-enhanced for environmental awareness. Apple’s potential entry into this space could shake things up, especially given its standalone brand prowess unlike Meta’s partnership with Luxottica. Meanwhile, Samsung and Google have also thrown their hats into the ring. In China, tech giant Baidu is expected to unveil its smartglasses this week at the Baidu World event, complete with built-in cameras and voice interaction via Baidu’s Ernie AI model.

Meta continues to deepen its Ray-Ban Meta foray, opening a dedicated pop-up store in Los Angeles until year-end. Next year, a new location in Phoenix will follow. These stores are more than just retail spots; they aim to create a fashionable lifestyle ambiance. Events from comedy acts to workshops and classes enhance this experiential retail approach. The enthusiasm for smartglasses is palpable. Are they here to stay, or just another fleeting tech trend? The future will reveal all.

For more on Apple’s exploration, Baidu’s launch, and Meta’s retail strategy, click through the links provided.

Other Noteworthy News

(Image by Meta)

Meta Allegedly Slashing Gaming Content Funds

A fresh report from The Information reveals that Meta might be rethinking its XR content funding, pivoting from gaming towards non-gaming lifestyle ventures. This shift has seen them pull back financial support from certain gaming-focused partners, leading to unfortunate layoffs at studios like Monks and Atlas V. This kind of sudden funding retraction is undoubtedly challenging for businesses caught by surprise, prompting difficult staff reductions. However, from a strategic standpoint, Meta’s vision extends beyond creating the next gaming console; it aims at becoming an indispensable utility within daily life, more akin to the smartphone than the game console of the future.

Explore further details on this topic through the link provided.

Notable Mentions

(Image by Miroslav Kotalík)

DIY AR Glasses Project

Meet Miroslav Kotalík, a tech genius who independently crafted AR glasses using a Raspberry Pi. Dubbed “Zero,” this prototype can display videos, images, play music, and show text via Bluetooth. His plans for a second version involve the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4, promising features like YouTube, Spotify, and Twitter compatibility. For updates on this fascinating DIY journey, follow his social media account.

Apple’s Vision Pro Gets Panoramic Display

Apple’s latest VisionOS 2.2 beta introduces a virtual UltraWide screen for Mac users via Vision Pro, effectively replacing two 4K monitors. Envisioned for enhanced productivity, this launch is especially beneficial for designers and professionals keen on large displays but at a fraction of the cost. Early feedback is overwhelmingly positive, though there’s a small hiccup regarding optimal window management, requiring third-party solutions until Apple catches up.

LIV Rolls Out Creator Kit for Quest

LIV has launched a Unity SDK allowing VR developers to incorporate third-person viewpoint recording on Quest standalones. This capability empowers users to craft engaging VR content without external PCs, making experiences like Gorilla Tag more shareable and viral.

Dive into the full details of each development via the links attached.

Scent Teleportation by Osmo

Osmo is making headlines by claiming a breakthrough in "scent teleportation." The technology involves digitizing a scent’s profile, then reproducing it in another location via a specialized device — a futuristic concept with potential VR applications. Despite current limitations, this innovation hints at exciting prospects for immersive experiences.

For a deeper dive into this pioneering technology, additional information is just a click away.

Sales and New Content

The PlayStation Store is currently boasting substantial discounts on PSVR 2 titles, presenting a golden opportunity for game enthusiasts to expand their collection with some hefty savings.

The game world is also buzzing about Metro Awakening, receiving accolades for its immersive environments despite some minor critiques. The developers’ thoughtful arachnophobia mode update has been particularly well-received for its inclusivity.

For further reading on these updates and new releases across platforms, follow the links provided.

Brief Reviews

• Human Fall Flat VR is a delightful rendition of its original, with physics-based antics ideal for multiplayer fun.
• Dumb Ways: Free for All harnesses charm and humor, though the mini-games can grow repetitive.
• Living Room offers adorable augmented reality interactions, but might benefit from more content variety.
• Underworld Overseer impressively revives the Dungeon Keeper vibe, though it could use a richer narrative and more diverse gameplay.

For full reviews and additional insights, the links are ready for your exploration.

Other Tidbits

• Photon debuted a new sample focusing on multiplayer collaboration in mixed reality.
• There’s a minor but noticeable push to open-source WMR via a budding petition.
• METAVRSE recently appointed a new CEO, Julie Smithson.

Partner Updates

For those in the Nordic region, MatchXR on November 19th in Helsinki is a not-to-miss event celebrating the XR ecosystem. Expect engaging discussions, demonstrations, and networking opportunities.

Meanwhile, over in Ljubljana, Slovenia, DeoVR is hosting a VR Jam on November 13th, promising insights into cutting-edge VR tech, hands-on experiences, and immersive gaming fun.

As always, enjoy the weekend, explore the growing XR landscape, and perhaps contribute to those in need worldwide. Support organizations like the Red Cross, making a tangible difference in challenging times. Links for learning more or donating can be found below.

(Header image by Miroslav Kotalík)

Disclaimer: This blog supports itself through ads and affiliate links. Clicking those links might earn me a small commission. More transparency available in my full disclosure.