XR Weekly Recap (Nov. 5, 2024): Google Play Store Gears Up for XR, Meta Reality Labs Financial Report, and More!

I just got back from AWE Europe, and let me tell you, it was an unforgettable experience! If you’re curious about my journey there, I’ve penned a few articles detailing my adventures.

Now, let’s jump into the most captivating XR stories from this week!

Key Highlights of the Week

Google Preps Play Store for XR Ahead of Samsung Headset Launch

According to a piece from Android Authority, Google is integrating XR support into its Play Store. Some savvy data scrapers dug into the new Play Store code and discovered an XR headset icon among the list of compatible devices, hinting at XR headset readiness. These updates are hidden from the public right now, but it’s clear Google is gearing up its Play Store to welcome XR headsets. Since a partnership with Meta wasn’t realized, it’s plausible these changes are paving the way for the anticipated headset Google is producing alongside Samsung and Qualcomm. This development signifies that the headset’s debut is looming. Samsung recently intimated during an earnings call that XR devices are a 2025 goal, suggesting we might see this headset launch that year, although we once thought it would be 2024.

Meta Reality Labs’ Upward Revenue but Increased Losses

Meta has released its Q3 2024 financials revealing $0.27 billion in revenue alongside $4.70 billion in losses. Interpretations online are varied; some focus on the staggering $4.4 billion loss, while outlets like Upload VR highlight the revenue increase from Q3 2023, suggesting healthy VR growth. Yahoo, however, points out the revenue was a miss compared to estimates. It’s a recurring topic during Meta’s quarterly reports—applaud the investment if it can be sustained. While I think some financial efficiencies could benefit Meta’s spending strategies, this investment could pay dividends when XR becomes mainstream. Personally, I’m keen to see how Q4 2024 looks as the Meta Quest 3S hits the holiday shelves.

Delayed Apple Vision Pro Rumors

According to Apple guru Ming-Chi Kuo, the cheaper version of Apple Vision might not debut until after 2027, as Apple seeks to pare down costs and add use cases to justify the device’s price. For now, we only expect a refresh of Apple Vision Pro in 2025 featuring the M5 chipset. While Kuo’s predictions should be taken with skepticism—remember, it’s not gospel—the delay agitates the Apple Vision Pro community, underscoring that Apple’s XR ecosystem might take longer to mature economically for developers. Remember: things often take longer than expected. Diversify, and don’t place all your bets on a single solution.

Introducing Oasis: AI’s New Playground

Oasis is an ambitious project aiming to simulate the multiplayer Minecraft experience using AI, replacing the need for a traditional game engine. This intriguing research aims to see if AI can drastically redefine computer science paradigms. It’s the brainchild of DecartAI, backed by Sequoia Capital, though Tim Sweeney of Epic Games had strong words about it. Although Oasis is currently limited, who knows how this AI could evolve? Maybe one day, AI could generate applications in real-time, though personally, I’m skeptical.

News Briefs

Meta Boosts Quest 3’s GPU

Meta has graciously bumped up the Quest 3 and Quest 3S’ maximum GPU speed by around 16%—a nice boost for gaming performance.

Niantic’s SPZ Format Goes Open Source

Niantic has released SPZ, a new compressed format for 3D Gaussian Splats, likened to a JPEG for splats, now open-sourced under the MIT license. It’s already inspiring development, including a Unity plugin.

Legal Drama Between ARM and Qualcomm

ARM is suing Qualcomm over license issues, with court proceedings scheduled for December. This legal clash is notable given that most VR headsets rely on Snapdragon chipsets from Qualcomm.

Meta Horizon v71’s Exciting Update

Quest v71 introduces numerous small improvements, like a new interface design, advanced pass-through, and Dolby Atmos, enhancing the overall user experience.

Somnium VR1 Ships to Early Adopters

Kudos to Somnium Space for shipping its VR1 headset, delivering on its promises.

XR Showcases at SIGGRAPH Asia and Comic Con London 2024

SIGGRAPH’s XR segment stunned with pioneering research projects, while Comic Con London spotlighted upcoming indie VR games. Watch the highlights through the provided trailer below.

Exciting Game Releases and Announcements

• "Alien: Rogue Incursion" has impressed early testers with its atmospheric horror and smart AI.
• Skydance Interactive unveiled more about "Behemoth", showcasing a new boss.
• Vertigo Games released the first seven minutes of "Metro Awakening," coming to major VR headsets.

Upcoming VR Titles to Watch

• "Sight Unseen," a quirky VR puzzle game, launches soon.
• "VAIL VR" becomes free, featuring a social hub and current shooter content available separately.
• "Gargoyle Doyle," offers a comedic mixed reality journey, is now out on Quest.
• And many more titles are pushing the boundaries of VR experiences.

Recent Reviews

• "Phasmophobia" on PSVR 2 delivers chills despite some technical hiccups.
• "Blade and Sorcery Nomad" campaign update nearly matches the PC experience, enhancing an already beloved game.

Other Announcements

• Canon’s latest spatial video lens will soon be on sale.
• Marques Brownlee explored Meta Orion hands-on, offering insights.
• Upload VR’s Winter Showcase is around the corner, promising fresh updates.
• An insightful PhD thesis dissects VR interactions.

Friend and Partner Updates

MindPort’s AIXTRA and its innovative AI-driven approach to VR training has been selected for the VOXReality initiative. Meanwhile, "Devil’s Purge" is making waves on iOS with its action-packed AR gameplay.

And for a chuckle, check out some humorous VR moments collected in this section.

Donate to Make a Difference

Much like last week, I’m encouraging readers to support those impacted by conflict. Consider donating to the Red Cross for Ukraine’s humanitarian efforts. A special thanks to my Patreon supporters who make my content possible. Here’s the link to contribute: Support The Red Cross in Ukraine

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