This week’s gaming news has been buzzing with updates from all the big names: Apple, Meta, Google, and Valve. Grab a comfy seat because there’s plenty to get through, including a giveaway for a fascinating mixed reality game at the end!
Highlights of the Week
US Tariffs and XR Headsets: There’s been a lot of confusion around XR headsets concerning US tariffs, which seem to change by the minute. Some companies, like Pimax and BigScreen, have pledged to cushion the blow for their users instead of hiking up prices. Thankfully, it seems tariffs on most electronic devices, including XR headsets, have been lifted. However, there’s a bit of uncertainty still, so we’ll have to keep an eye on these developments.
Apple’s AR Ambitions: Rumors about Apple’s plans keep swirling. There’s chatter about the Apple Vision Pro 2 already being in production, but what’s catching more attention is the company’s focus on AR glasses. According to insider reports, Tim Cook is laser-focused on this project, eyeing it as a significant advancement in augmented reality.
Valve’s Deckard Developments: Valve has been busy, importing equipment to manufacture components for VR headsets. Speculation is rife that this equipment is for the facial interfaces of the upcoming Valve Deckard headset, suggesting a potential launch soon. The buzz around this device is growing, and 2023 might just be the year it hits shelves.
Future XR Glasses from Google and Samsung: Teaming up, Google and Samsung have reportedly shifted away from simple Ray-Ban Meta-style shades and are now eyeing a more advanced XR device, aiming for a 2026 launch. This strategic move could place them in competition with Meta’s expected updates.
AltspaceVR Revival: In a surprising twist, AltspaceVR may be making a comeback. Danny Mac is spearheading a new version, aiming to recapture the original platform’s welcoming community vibe. While still in early development, it’s inspiring to see efforts to revitalize such a beloved VR space.
Interesting Bits
Meta’s VR for Airlines: Following a successful pilot, Meta is broadening its VR entertainment on flights, hinting at a future where virtual reality could become a standard inflight offering.
Varjo’s Business Orientation: Varjo is sticking to its B2B roots, primarily focusing on industries like aviation and military. For now, they seem to be stepping back from consumer markets.
New Ways to Navigate XR: Researchers are compiling a comprehensive list of over 170 text entry methods for XR, which could significantly aid in advancing user interaction within virtual spaces.
Meta’s Uninstall Restrictions: Meta has sparked frustration by removing the option to uninstall Horizon Worlds from their devices, a move that’s proving unpopular among users.
On the Gaming Front
Titles like ‘Besiege,’ ‘FastHands,’ and ‘GORN 2’ have exciting updates and releases slated for the coming months. ‘Civilization VII VR’ has just hit the Quest 3 platform, although some players have reported stuttering issues. Meanwhile, ‘Walkabout Mini Golf’ is undergoing changes, integrating DLC courses into the base game.
Giving Back and Community Highlights
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Finally, a huge thank you to all my Patreon supporters whose contributions help keep these updates coming!
For more detailed links and the latest on these stories, remember to check the full articles linked in the content. Happy gaming, and may the odds be ever in your favor in winning that MR game giveaway!
