I can assure you, CES sickness is real, and the unfortunate truth is that it lingers even after the event wraps up. Despite battling a pesky cold, my commitment to delivering engaging XR news remains unwavering. So, get comfy and dive into these intriguing updates!
Top Stories of the Week
The Autumn Struggles for XR
The world of immersive realities is facing a challenging season. The market appears somewhat sluggish, and profiting in this environment is no easy feat. While there’s consensus about AR and VR technologies becoming significant in our future, for now, they remain relatively niche. I delved into this subject in a previous piece, evaluating our current landscape.
This past week brought forth various developments that resonate with my initial observations:
- PowerWash Simulator VR’s studio has decided to cease updates merely 14 months post-launch due to development costs overshadowing revenue.
- Soul Assembly, creators of Drop Dead: The Cabin and Just Dance VR, is reducing its workforce by 15%.
- An analysis by Omdia and Sensor Tower revealed a 27% drop in downloads of the Meta Horizon app on Christmas Day 2024 compared to 2023, suggesting less enthusiasm in VR holiday purchases this year. One reason could be that Quest 2 owners didn’t find enough incentive to upgrade to newer models.
- Counterpoint Research’s data showed a 4% decline in the global VR market during Q3 2024, compared to the same period in 2023.
- Shuhei Yoshida, formerly with Sony, openly expressed regret about his optimistic views on PS VR2 in an interview.
- After seven successful years, the F.Reality podcast has concluded its run.
In light of these developments, Blair Renaud, the developer behind LOW-FI, took to social media platform X, to voice his concerns about the uncertain future. His sentiments are shared by many in the industry who feel adrift amidst turbulent times.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s a silver lining with some positive news:
- Forbes highlighted how younger generations are favoring the metaverse over traditional social media for interactions.
- The same Counterpoint analysis noted that the Apple Vision Pro’s shipments, particularly internationally, exceeded expectations if shipment numbers can indeed be equated with sales.
- Beat Saber is reportedly on the verge of reaching 10 million copies sold on Quest alone.
The road ahead looks bumpy, and it’s crucial we acknowledge this. While CES didn’t present major breakthroughs for AR/VR, there are glimmers of hope with innovations like smart glasses. Positivity remains vital as we brace for the upcoming challenges. For now, it’s about perseverance and optimism.
Other Important News
Microsoft Mandates the Windows 11 24H2 Update
The 24H2 update for Windows 11 is now inevitable for many users. Microsoft is rolling out this update across all systems it controls, particularly Home versions. For the XR community, this change is significant as it effectively halts support for Mixed Reality on Windows 11, rendering many Windows Mixed Reality headsets obsolete. Some have managed to delay this inevitable transition, and while it might still be possible for those using professional or enterprise editions of the OS, those with Home versions have a harder time dodging it. I extend my heartfelt sympathy to everyone impacted by this, watching their gear become dormant.
ASUS Unveils a New Trailer for AirVision M1 Glasses
ASUS recently dropped an exciting trailer for their AirVision M1 smart glasses. These glasses, which I stumbled upon in coverage from CES 2024, offer a virtual screen experience. With features like 1100 nits of brightness and 60% lens transparency, they’re TÜV Rheinland certified and include built-in speakers. They’re compatible with both Windows PCs and ROG Ally handhelds, and weigh in at a mere 87 grams. Paired with their companion app, users can enjoy a virtual multi-screen setup. They’re priced at $700—slightly above the $600 mark for XREAL One Pro glasses.
Noteworthy Mentions
Palmer Luckey Teases an Upcoming Reveal
In response to Blair Renaud’s post, Palmer Luckey hinted at impending VR-related news, stating, "Wait till you see what I am announcing in a few weeks and see if you still think I am out of the game." Whether it pertains to the military-grade VR headset he hinted at during AWE or the anticipated Quest Pro, I’m certainly intrigued.
Somnium Space Adjusts Headset Prices
Realizing the complexities involved in production, Somnium Space has increased their headset prices by €5–700. Here’s the updated pricing:
- Somnium VR1 Visionary Edition: €3000 + VAT
- Somnium VR1 Titan Edition: €3400 + VAT
- Somnium VR1 Ultimate Edition: €4300 + VAT
Meta’s MicroLED Breakthrough
In collaboration with Plessey, Meta announced a new red MicroLED display touted as the "world’s brightest" for AR glasses, boasting ultra-low power consumption. Dr. Keith Strickland from Plessey highlighted this as a pivotal step forward for AR technology, especially noteworthy given the traditionally lower efficiency of red displays compared to blue and green.
Playing Chess with Ray-Ban Meta Glasses
Innovative young developers Caden Li and Eddy Xu have harnessed the Ray-Ban Meta glasses to enhance chess playing by streaming the board to an AI, which then offers moves to the user via the glasses’ speakers. This imaginative showcase highlights the potential of combining smart glasses with AI, underscoring the need for open, programmable devices.
Jayden Daniels and VR Training
Jayden Daniels, quarterback for the Washington Commanders, attributes part of his recent success to using VR for daily training, further cementing VR’s role as a potent training tool.
Content Highlights
Exciting developments in the gaming world include:
- GRIM: A Rust-inspired survival game entering early access for Quest and SteamVR.
- Tablecraft: A "mad science" VR sandbox launching this week on Quest.
- Lovesick: A VR puzzle game set to release for Meta Quest headsets on March 6.
- Rogue Piñatas: VRmageddon debuts on Meta Quest on February 6, with a spring release on Steam.
- Despite its studio’s shutdown, PSVR 2’s Firewall Ultra got a surprise update.
Game Reviews
Recent reviews shed light on various titles:
- Iron Rebellion has been praised for balancing usability with the authentic mech experience.
- Arken Age captivates with its vibrant presentation and rewarding combat.
- Assetto Corsa EVO’s Early Access launch faces significant issues.
- The Thrill Of The Fight 2 offers a fresh multiplayer boxing experience.
- Human Within exemplifies the pitfalls of a poorly executed branching story.
Miscellaneous Tidbits
In other news:
- Meta’s decision to remove an achievements app has frustrated both developers and users.
- Peculiar insights this week center around a mysterious LED near the Quest 3S cameras.
- The Visor headset saga unfolds with mixed reviews and some censorship issues on Discord.
- Michael Gschwandtner is creatively coupling affordable AR glasses to his Nintendo Switch.
Partner Announcements
The IEEE International Symposium on the Internet of Sounds will host a workshop on the musical metaverse in L’Aquila, Italy. Focused on integrating Musical XR systems with networking, it’s an excellent opportunity for academics and industry professionals alike.
A Bit of XR Humor
Enjoy some XR-centric humor, from meta hardware/software comparisons to humorous business insights and future device testing needs.
Support a Cause
As always, I urge you to consider supporting those affected by current global conflicts, particularly through organizations like the Red Cross, which are actively addressing the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. I deeply appreciate my Patreon supporters for their unwavering support. If you wish to contribute, an easy way to help is through the link provided for donating to the Red Cross in Ukraine.
(Header image derived from a Microsoft image)
