The XR Weekly Roundup (December 16, 2024): Unveiling Android XR, Samsung’s New Headset, and More!

This week has been quite an exciting one for me as I’ve just announced that I’ll be heading to CES in January for the first time! I’m busy planning the trip and setting up meetings to try out some AR/VR glasses. If you’re attending too, definitely let me know! And if you’ve got any tips on making the most of CES, I’d love to hear them. I’m eager to share all the experiences with you. But until then, let’s dive into the top XR news from this week… and a little giveaway!

Top News of the Week

Google Announces Android XR

This week’s big news—and arguably one of the year’s biggest—comes with Google’s official announcement of Android XR. Google intends for Android XR to become the go-to operating system for all XR devices, from mixed reality headsets to augmented reality glasses and smart eyewear. The first compatible device is the mixed-reality headset being developed with Samsung and Qualcomm, codenamed Project Moohan. Additionally, partners such as XREAL, Sony, and Lynx are developing new gadgets to be used with this innovative operating system. Google provided select media members with a sneak peek on Project Moohan, as well as on both monocular and binocular smart glasses. A highlight of Android XR is its robust integration with artificial intelligence, specifically Gemini AI. This intelligent assistant keeps tabs on your activities in both physical and virtual spaces and is ready to help when needed. For instance, you can present a restaurant’s business card, and Gemini AI will show you its location using a 3D version of Google Maps. You can then explore the virtual building and request information, to which the AI will respond. Furthermore, when using smart glasses, Gemini can provide real-time translations of foreign languages. It even remembers events from the previous 10 minutes, letting you revisit previous statements or visuals. This feature is undoubtedly valuable, though it raises some privacy concerns. The operating system also boasts other exciting features, such as automatic 3D conversions of photos and videos. It supports multimodal inputs, meaning it responds to controllers, hands, eyes, or voice commands. So far, only the G-suite and a few games like Demeo and Vacation Simulator have been announced as available content, but more titles are on the horizon. Developers can already get their hands on a preview of the development environment, which supports native, Unity, and WebXR. Details about Project Moohan are still sparse, though it seems to combine aspects of the Quest Pro and Apple Vision Pro. It has an external battery, high-definition displays, and a precise passthrough. It’s equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen2 chipset, with controllers expected to arrive in 2025—the same year the headset is set to launch. Google’s venture into the XR field not only validates the technology but also raises the level of competition, benefiting everyone involved in the space. Let’s hope this initiative doesn’t end up in the tech graveyard in a few years.

For more details: [My detailed roundup on Android XR, with many reference links]

For more discussion: [Ben Lang’s editorial about Android XR vs Horizon OS]

Other Relevant News

Latest Quest Update: Hand Tracking Enhancements, Windows 11 Integration, and More

Meta has rolled out runtime v72 for Quest, packed with some noteworthy features:

• Hand Tracking 2.3: Improves tracking responsiveness, especially in closed environments like travel mode.
• Windows Mixed Reality Link: Enables Quest 3 and 3S users to connect their headset to a Windows 11 PC simply by looking at it, similar to how Vision Pro connects with Macs. This upgrade is fantastic for productivity, though Apple’s version is still ahead.
• Keyboard Tracking: Can now track and display all keyboards using passthrough.
• Media Gallery App: A new addition for enjoying media on your device.
• VR Home Environment Entry: No longer requires boundary setup thanks to a static default, allowing for a seamless entry into your VR home space.
• Instagram Updates: Includes the addition of Direct messages.

The Windows 11 connectivity feature is a personal favorite. Given the positive buzz around the Mac connection with Vision Pro, I’m eager to try out this PC equivalent.

For more details: [Meta Quest runtime v72 — Road To VR]
For more insights: [Meta Quest runtime v72 — Upload VR]
For setup instructions: [How to connect the Quest with a Windows 11 PC]

News Worth a Mention

Omdia’s Grim 2025 XR Forecast

Omdia has released a rather gloomy report on the XR market. They predict a drop in headset sales from 7.7 million in 2023 to 6.9 million in 2024, with a further decline expected in 2025. A rebound is anticipated in 2026, however. While the report’s 2025 outlook matches my expectations, I sense a gradual industry growth since 2023, evidenced by successes like Ray-Ban Meta and Android XR’s unveiling. It seems this is all about perspective.

For deeper insights: [Financial Times post about Omdia’s report]
For further thoughts: [LinkedIn post about Omdia’s report]

The Rise of Gorilla Tag

An insightful piece by XR investor JP Minetos on Road To VR explores the rise of Gorilla Tag and its massive success. The game’s engaging social features, unique movement mechanics, effortless gameplay, and meme-friendly qualities all contributed to its popularity.

Discover more

Exciting Deal on Quest 3S

Right now, you can grab the Quest 3S (256 GB) for just $400 on Amazon US and other regions. Plus, you’ll get a $30 digital Amazon credit. It’s a solid offer running until Christmas, so if you haven’t picked up a Quest 3S yet, this might be your chance.

Learn more

Batman: Arkham Shadow Triumphs in VR/AR Category

At The Game Awards, Batman: Arkham Shadow by Camouflaj snagged the Best VR/AR Game Award. This win is hardly surprising, given the game’s tremendous impact and widespread acclaim within the VR community.

For more coverage: [Video of Batman: Arkham Shadow being awarded] [Meta blog post celebrating this success]

Content Updates

Explore the latest developments in the world of content with these exciting updates:

• Fallout London VR: A mod aiming to bring VR support to the expansive ‘Fallout: London’ DLC.
• Path of Fury: Episode I—Tetsuo’s Tower: An upcoming VR action game inspired by ’80s Kung Fu movies, releasing in early 2025 on Quest 2/3/Pro for $9.99.
• Bridge Constructor XR: Bringing the well-loved bridge-building app to XR for $10.
• Behemoth’s First Major Patch: Fixes numerous bugs and rebalances combat following mixed community reviews.
• Clone Drone in the Hyperdome VR Sequel: Available now on Steam and Meta for $20.
• Realize Music: Sing: A "singing-for-wellness" app blending rhythm gameplay, meditation, and VR aesthetics. Launches on Meta Quest January 23, 2025.
• Panic Room MR: A mixed-reality horror game that introduces eerie elements into your home for $5 on Quest 3 & 3S.
• X8 Contra: Super Wall Storm: A crossover between Konami’s Contra and free-to-play VR hero shooter X8 for $20 on Horizon Store and Steam.
• Crystal Commanders: A strategy game for both VR and mixed reality, arriving on Quest February 27, 2025.
• Mecha Force: A VR mech game inspired by Shin Getter Robo and Gurren Lagann, now in early access on Quest, featuring a free demo.
• DodgeCraft: Tests reflexes with VR sports modes, available now on Quest.
• Beyond Blue: After the Storm: Offers an aquatic VR journey, exploring the ocean up-close.
• Human Fall Flat VR Beta: Try out the beta for a new first-person game mode now available on Steam.
• Upload VR: As always, provides its regular XR News Round-Up, detailing minor XR news updates.

For more information, explore links to these exciting entries: [Fallout London VR], [Path Of Fury], and others.

Reviews Spotlight

Review highlights on recent content showcase the following:

• Metamorphosis VR: Boasts an intriguing concept and striking visuals, though it lacks polish.
• Action Hero: Provides a fresh take on SuperHot mechanics, offering accessibility for newcomers alongside engaging campaigns for veteran players.
• Home Sports: Enjoyable virtual sports collection for friends, though some games might feel underwhelming.
• Rogue Piñatas: A whimsical, family-friendly take on the well-worn zombie survival theme.

Dive into more details with links for each game: [Metamorphosis VR], [Action Hero], and other reviews.

Additional News

Stay informed on other recent developments:

• A detailed review on the Pimax Crystal Light by Rob Cole.
• Norman Mueller’s synopsis of recent smartglasses and AR glasses updates.
• Apple unveils the Ultrawide Virtual Display feature in VisionOS 2.2 for Vision Pro.
• NeoGrip’s cost-effective custom controllers for standalone VR headsets.
• Unity opens applications for its Humanity 2025 grant.
• Into The Scaniverse introduces world reconstructions with Gaussian Splats in WebXR.

For further details on each topic, follow these links.

Partner and Friendship News

Exciting opportunities and updates from partners and friends:

• Vitruvian VR Investment Opportunity: This exciting startup is launching a crowdfunding campaign. With a minimum investment of €250, you could become part of this innovative venture. Dive into my review of their simulator to get a better grasp of why this project is thrilling. Discover more: [Crowdfunding page], [My review of Vitruvian]

• Iron Rebellion Game Key Giveaway: If you’re a fan of mecha games, Iron Rebellion is right up your alley. Often likened to Titanfall and Hawken, it’s available on Quest and Steam. I’ve got a couple of Steam keys to give away. Quickly grab one: RBQ6Q-5LEEE-C0BW2 | 7HWWY-M8K6E-9W0EF. If you miss out, consider purchasing to support the developers. Learn more: [Iron Rebellion on Steam and Horizon Store]

XR Fun

There’s always room for a little fun with XR:

• Check out the quirky camera setups of Quest 4. [Funny link]
• A lighthearted comic depicting chickens in VR. [Funny link]
• The first rule of Fight Club is… [Funny link]

Help for a Cause

As usual, instead of donating to my blog, consider assisting those severely affected by war. Your donations to the Red Cross can make a difference in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. A heartfelt thank you to all my Patreon donors for your ongoing support:

• [Patreon donor list]

You can donate to the Red Cross here:

[Support The Red Cross in Ukraine]

(Header image by Google)

(Disclaimer: This blog is sustained by advertising and affiliate links. Clicking on any affiliate links means I might earn a small commission on your purchase, making me very happy. Full disclosure available here.)

Related Content