XR Weekly Highlights (2025.07.28): Unveiling New Quest Features, Brilliant Labs’ Smartglasses Launch & More!

Hey there! So I hope your summer’s been a blast. And, I mean, what better way to amp it up than diving into this pile of random XR news I stumbled upon? Oh, and there’s a giveaway too. I know, right?

The What’s-What of the Week

Luna’s Data Treasure Trove

So, Luna did some digging—uh, we call it datamining—on the upcoming Quest features. Upload VR has the scoop. Here’s what’s cooking:

• Horizon Home is, like, shaking things up. The static home? Poof! Gone. Now it’s all social and lively, sort of like Horizon Worlds stretching its legs. Imagine portals, shared windows, and pinned 2D apps. Cozy, right?

• They’re giving the central plaza a facelift. It’ll run smoother and have your home space peeking out from the sky. Sounds wild, if you ask me.

• Events Arena is in the mix, coming soon with happenings and whatnot.

Oh, remember that super impressive Horizon Hyperscape demo? They’re turning it into an app! Yep—Horizon Photoreal is happening. You’ll scan places with your phone and share them. Future’s here or what?

Keep in mind, all this info comes from Luna’s sleuthing. Meta hasn’t spilled the beans officially, though it might show at Meta Connect. Or not. Who knows?

Eyewear Shenanigans

Brilliant Labs is gearing up to drop some new smartglasses on July 31 at 10 am PT. People loved their Monocle and Frames, so there’s a decent chance this new gear will be just as nifty. Bobak Tavangar, the cofounder, is having an AMA on Reddit to answer all the gossip.

Sharp’s VR Gloves?

Yep, Sharp’s crafting a VR controller-glove hybrid thingy. No one asked for it—it just appeared. Picture this: you’re feeling haptic vibes on your fingers while playing. Costs around $680 in Japan. Wild!

Meta and Mystical Wristbands

Meta’s doing some hand jive with an EMG wristband. Published their research in Nature. They’ve got gestures down to tapping and swiping that feel super intuitive. Love it or don’t—it’s a thing.

Google’s Smart Moves?

Rumor has it Google’s smartglasses demo at TED was using some fragile Raxium microdisplays. These displays are as rare as unicorn tears. Not confirmed, just whispers.

Save the Date

‑ VR Games Showcase is back this August 12. Promises big reveals and a pre-show filled with indie charms.

‑ Pico headset folk—you’re in luck! Massive summer sale with up to 50% off until August 10.

‑ Putt Window game for Quest 3 lets you golf at home. Use a real putter in a virtual landscape. Just, uh, mind the furniture.

The Bittersweet Bits

Dungeon Full Dive’s creators, TxK Gaming Studios, are shutting doors. Makes me sad, but I guess there wasn’t enough dough despite the $250K Kickstarter boost. They’re offering the toolkit’s GM Edition for free next week. Seems fair for all their fans.

Random Tidbits

‑ Sound Bath’s here if you want to zone out.
‑ Eldramoor raised $170K on Kickstarter.
‑ Billie Eilish might appear in 180° 3D on Meta Quest.
‑ Customize your Rec Room AI buddy, Roomie.
‑ Spotify’s web app hits Meta Horizon Store!

What’s New in Gaming

‑ Pirate-themed VR caper Republic of Nassau? Yes, please!
‑ Elsewhere Electric’s co-op mystery still needs a touch of polish.
‑ Clone Drone in the Hyperdome is a rogue-like battler you can’t miss.

Tech Reviews and Sneak Peeks

‑ Checking out cool gadgets like Xiaomi AI glasses and Bhaptics Tactsuits.
‑ Getting schooled on VR training implementation.

From the Side

‑ BEATABLE game giveaway! Snag it fast, fingers crossed you’re lucky!
‑ Medhi Sam’s blog post on Unity. Man, shaders can be tricksy.

At the End

You know, don’t forget folks in Ukraine need help. Red Cross is doing great work—consider throwing some support their way.

Great, now go do something awesome. And if you made it here, give yourself a pat on the back. You read it all! 🎉