The XR Weekly Roundup (December 16, 2024): Introduction of Android XR, Samsung Reveals New Headset, and More!

This week has been incredibly exciting for me, as I’ve just announced my plans to attend CES in January, marking my first venture to this prestigious event! I’m already in the thick of planning my trip and lining up a few appointments to test out AR/VR glasses. If you’re planning to be there too, give me a shout! Also, if you have any tips to make my CES experience stellar, I’m all ears. I can’t wait to share all the amazing experiences with you. But until then, let’s dive into the most exciting XR news of the week… and there’s even a giveaway in store!

Top News of the Week

Google Announced Android XR

One of the week’s standout announcements, and perhaps one of the year’s biggest tech revelations, is Google’s introduction of Android XR, their newly minted OS for all XR devices. This system powers everything from mixed reality headsets to AR glasses, including smart glasses. The first gadget to support this is the mixed-reality headset Google is crafting with Samsung and Qualcomm, known as Project Moohan. Other companies like XREAL, Sony, and Lynx are also developing devices compatible with this OS. Google’s exclusive demos of Android XR showcased on Project Moohan and various smart glasses models highlighted the integration of artificial intelligence. Gemini AI, embedded within the OS, assists users by tracking their activities in both real and virtual worlds. This AI can even provide detailed mapping information or translate conversations in real-time. While it’s a boon for usability, its implications for privacy might be disconcerting to some. Moreover, the OS boasts features like automatic 3D conversion of media and supports multiple input modes such as voice, hand gestures, and controllers. Currently, content for this platform includes G-suite apps and games like Demeo and Vacation Simulator, with more in the pipeline. Developers can already get a sneak peek at the development environment for platforms like Unity and WebXR. As for Project Moohan, detailed specs remain scant, but it’s rumored to be akin to a blend between the Quest Pro and Apple Vision Pro. Scheduled for a 2025 release, it features high-def displays and an external battery. Google’s entry heralds a new era of competition in the XR realm, a promising step for innovation. Let’s hope this venture thrives and doesn’t end up in Google’s infamous product graveyard.

Want to dive deeper? Check my detailed roundup on Android XR and Ben Lang’s insights on Android XR vs Horizon OS.

Other Relevant News

Latest Quest Update Enhances Features

Meta’s latest runtime update, v72 for Quest, brings some noteworthy enhancements:

• Hand tracking 2.3: Improved responsiveness and tracking in enclosed spaces.
• Windows Mixed Reality Link: Simplified connection for Quest 3/3S users with Windows 11, mirroring Vision Pro’s functionality with Mac.
• Keyboard tracking via passthrough mode.
• A new Media Gallery app to manage your media seamlessly.
• Simplified VR home entry with assumed static boundaries.

Additionally, minor updates include Instagram app direct messaging capabilities. My personal highlight? The Windows 11 connection feature. It’s praised akin to the Mac-Vision Pro link, and I can’t wait to explore its capabilities.

For more detailed info: Meta Quest runtime v72 – Road To VR, Meta Quest runtime v72 – Upload VR, and Connecting Quest with Windows 11.

News Worth a Mention

Omdia’s 2025 XR Market Forecast

Omdia’s latest report projects a gloomy 2025 for the XR market, expecting a 10% drop in headset sales back to 6.9 million units by 2024. Despite this dip, a rebound is expected in 2026. While the current industry trajectory seems to challenge these findings, I see promising growth ahead, fueled by successful products like Ray-Ban Meta and the Android XR launch.

For further details, visit the Financial Times and LinkedIn for insights on Omdia’s outlook.

The Rise of Gorilla Tag

An intriguing piece by XR investor JP Minetos on Road To VR explores Gorilla Tag’s meteoric rise to fame. Key to its success are its social mechanics, unique movement style, and wide meme appeal.

Grab a Quest 3S Bargain!

In the market for a Quest 3S? Amazon US is offering the 256GB version at $400, along with a $30 digital credit.

Batman: Arkham Shadow Takes Top Honors

The Game Awards crowned Batman: Arkham Shadow as the Best VR/AR Game of the Year, a testament to its impact and quality within the VR community.

Want more details? Check the award video here and Meta’s celebratory blog post.

Content Highlights

From modding new VR experiences to on-rails action games, here’s a look at what’s making waves in the VR content scene:

• Fallout London VR mod.
• Path of Fury: Episode I launching in early 2025.
• Bridge Constructor’s XR adaptation.
• Major patches and updates across popular games.
• Upcoming VR launches like Panic Room MR and Crystal Commanders.

For more on these content pieces, visit links provided for Fallout London VR, Path Of Fury, Bridge Constructor, and more.

Content Reviews

Delve into some of the latest VR games with these insightful reviews:

• Metamorphosis VR: Interesting concept, yet slightly unrefined.
• Action Hero: A fresh take on SuperHot mechanics with an enticing campaign.
• Home Sports: Fun sports compilation with room for depth.
• Rogue Piñatas: VRmageddon: Family-friendly fun with a zombified twist.

Explore more here.

Other Noteworthy Developments

• Rob Cole reviews the Pimax Crystal Light in extensive detail.
• Norman Mueller outlines the latest in smartglasses and AR developments.
• Apple’s VisionOS 2.2 now features an Ultrawide Virtual Display.

Learn more about these and more tech updates in the listed articles.

Support and Fun

Vitruvian VR is looking for investors to bring their ambitious simulator to life, and Iron Rebellion has generously shared some free game keys — check out what might still be up for grabs or consider supporting the game!

On a softer note, remember to donate to the Red Cross to aide those affected by ongoing conflicts, particularly in Ukraine. Your contributions can make a vital difference. Thank you to all my Patreon supporters for their continued support as well!

Finally, check out some amusing XR links, from quirky camera setups to VR chickens.

Stay tuned for more updates and have an incredible week exploring the XR universe!