This week has been jam-packed with updates from big names like Apple, Meta, Google, and Valve. There’s a ton to digest, and if you stick around till the end, there’s even a chance to snag keys for an exciting mixed reality game! Don’t miss my latest post about the XR environment in China and an upcoming trip to Shanghai!
Weekly Highlights
Don’t Worry, Headsets Might Be Safe from Tariffs
The landscape around U.S. tariffs is constantly shifting, leaving the fate of XR headsets in the balance. While many companies wait to see how things play out, Pimax and BigScreen have pledged to absorb potential tariff impacts, sparing consumers from extra charges. BigScreen is taking on the entire burden, while Pimax intends to add a small regional fee. However, there’s good news: it seems that most electronic devices, including XR headsets, are likely exempt from these tariffs now. While nothing is set in stone, it looks like devices from brands like Quest might remain price-stable, barring any future tariffs on electronic chips that could affect the sector.
Apple’s New Ventures: From Vision Pro 2 to AR Glasses
Rumors are swirling about Apple’s newest ventures. There’s buzz in China about the Apple Vision Pro 2 already entering production, and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests Apple is actually developing two headsets: an upgraded Vision Pro and an affordable tethered headset for Mac. But the real buzz surrounds AR glasses, with claims that Tim Cook is fervently driving development to outpace Meta. While these glasses aren’t launching anytime soon, the race is underway.
Valve’s Stepping Up Production for Deckard?
Rumblings indicate Valve might soon debut the Deckard, its next headset. The company’s recent imports hint at domestic production for VR headset parts, likely intended for this new device, given the age of its Index model. After all, an increase in speculation usually means a big announcement is on the horizon, possibly soon.
Google & Samsung’s Possible 2026 XR Glasses Launch
Google and Samsung plan an impressive XR lineup, featuring a mixed reality headset and new glasses with AI-enhanced features. Initially expected sooner, these glasses now target a 2026 release, likely because of an expanded feature set. This move seems strategic to outpace Meta’s upcoming releases, ensuring competitive relevance with robust technological advancements.
The Revival of AltspaceVR
In a nostalgic twist, AltspaceVR is making a comeback. Danny Mac is helming this revival using an open-source framework, aiming to recapture the positive community spirit AltspaceVR was known for and providing creators with new tools. Though it’s early days yet, it’s exciting to see a beloved platform getting a second chance.
Newsworthy Tidbits
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VR Entertainment Takes Flight: After smashing success with Lufthansa, Meta’s VR entertainment looks set to take off with more airlines.
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Varjo Stays Focused on B2B: Varjo is unlikely to pivot back to consumer markets, choosing instead to stick with enterprise applications.
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Pico’s New Tracker: Pico’s latest waist tracker is now available, promising enhanced full-body tracking for users.
- Typing in XR Made Easier: A consortium of researchers has created a vast resource of text entry techniques for XR, a boon for designers and developers.
Extras and Updates
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Meta Quest 3S Discount: The headset gets a spring markdown, raising questions about its sales performance post-holiday season.
- New Game Content: Highlights include the imminent arrival of Besiege on Quest and GORN 2’s scheduled releases across platforms.
Community Shout-outs
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(Header image by Pimax)
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