The celebrations for Chinese Singles’ Day have wrapped up (happy holidays to all the single folks out there!), and the chilly weather is creeping in over here. With a hot drink in hand, let’s dive into this week’s most intriguing XR news.
Top news of the week
Smartglasses Continue to Garner Attention
Ray-Ban’s collaboration with Meta has undoubtedly sparked a buzz in the smartglasses realm. Following suit, Mark Gurman sheds light on Apple’s internal workings to develop their version, aiming for a 2027 release to rival Ray-Ban Meta. While details are sparse, it seems these glasses will likely harness AI to interact with the user’s environment. Apple’s potential entry could shake things up, given its brand appeal. Meanwhile, Samsung and Google are also reportedly exploring smartglasses, and Baidu is expected to unveil its own at the Baidu World event. Meanwhile, Meta is amplifying its Ray-Ban Meta line with pop-up stores focusing on experiential retail, featuring events like comedy, podcasts, and workshops. The era of smartglasses might just be upon us—whether it’s a fleeting trend or the next big thing remains to be seen.
For more on Apple’s exploration, Baidu’s plans, or Meta’s new stores, check out the links.
Other notable news
Meta Redirects Funding from Gaming to Lifestyle Content
A report from The Information highlights Meta’s pivot from XR gaming content toward lifestyle applications. As a result, several studios have experienced funding cuts, resulting in layoffs. It’s a tough break for the Netherlands-based Monks and France-based Altas V studios, which had to downsize substantially. Though unfortunate for the affected developers, this shift may align with Meta’s ambition to dominate through everyday utility, rather than gaming exclusivity.
For more insights, click the link.
Quick mentions
DIY AR Glasses and Other Updates
Miroslav Kotalík’s solo AR glasses prototype, "Zero," demonstrates an intriguing DIY approach using Raspberry Pi technology. Capable of multimedia playback and more, he’s poised to enhance it with upcoming tech.
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Apple released Vision Pro’s Panoramic Display, transforming your Mac experience with a virtual ultra-wide monitor, though it requires third-party support for window management.
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LIV’s new Unity SDK for Quest empowers creators to capture immersive VR footage directly on the headset—saving developers weeks of effort.
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EgoTouch presents an interface using your palm as a touchscreen with innovative pressure detection.
- Osmo’s "scent teleportation" experiment impressively shares smells digitally—an exciting prospect for VR.
For these stories and more, explore the links provided.
PlayStation Store’s Major Sale
Great news for PSVR 2 enthusiasts—many games are on sale, with discounts exceeding 40%, making it a prime time to expand your gaming collection.
Metro Awakening: Game of the Moment
Amid the gaming community, Metro Awakening has taken the spotlight this week. Reviews laud its atmospheric environments and immersive engagement, despite minor gameplay hiccups. Impressive accessibility options, like arachnophobia mode, are commendable.
For reviews and details, click the link.
Djay App Comes to Meta Quest
The versatile djay app now graces Meta Quest, integrating immersive DJ experiences with real-world gear support and access to thousands of tracks.
Content Tidbits and Reviews
Here’s a glimpse of what’s new and notable:
- Alien: Rogue Incursion for Quest delayed, PCVR and PSVR remain on track.
- Upcoming VR film Human Within engages players’ choices, impacting endings.
- Here are quick takes from the week’s reviews:
- Human Fall Flat VR is chaotic fun with friends.
- Dumb Ways: Free for All amuses with quirky charm.
- Living Room’s mixed reality features cute critters.
- Underworld Overseer could use more narrative depth.
Catch more info and reviews using the provided links.
Miscellaneous
Photon’s free sample showcases multiplayer collaboration in MR. A petition to open source WMR is gaining traction, and Julie Smithson steps up as METAVRSE’s new CEO.
Events and Gatherings
Join me at MatchXR in Helsinki on November 19th for insights into the Nordic XR scene. Or, explore cutting-edge VR tech at the DeoVR Jam in Slovenia on November 13th, featuring tech demos and inspiring talks.
For details on these events, click the links.
No sponsors in this edition—just a chance to relax and relish life.
A Little XR Humor
Spare some time and giggles with these fun XR-related links.
Support for a Cause
In light of humanitarian needs, especially in Ukraine, I implore you to donate to the Red Cross. I’m grateful to my Patreon supporters for their ongoing encouragement.
Find the donation link below and join me in supporting those in need.
Support The Red Cross in Ukraine
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