This week has been buzzing with updates from big names like Apple, Meta, Google, and Valve, and there’s plenty to catch up on. If you stick around until the end, there’s a special treat – keys for an exciting mixed reality game giveaway! And don’t forget to check out my recent piece about the XR ecosystem in China and my upcoming adventure to Shanghai!
Top News of the Week
What’s Up with US Tariffs on Headsets?
The situation with US tariffs is as tangled as ever, changing constantly and leaving companies on edge. Still in a gray zone, XR headset manufacturers are in a bit of a holding pattern, waiting to see how things settle. However, Pimax and BigScreen have stepped up, reassuring users they’ll handle the tariff costs, at least partially. Pimax plans a $75-95 surcharge for US buyers, while BigScreen aims to absorb the tariffs altogether. Keeping costs down is crucial in the price-sensitive XR market, so this is a relief. Better yet, signs suggest tariffs on XR headsets might be dropped entirely, following a recent US exemption of most electronic devices, sparking hope among manufacturers like Apple. Fingers crossed this holds true for XR devices too, though we remain cautious as other tariffs might soon target electronic chips potentially affecting the industry.
Other Relevant News
Apple’s Vision Pro 2 May Be in the Works, But AR Glasses Are Its Main Aim
The buzz around Apple continues, especially after the Vision Pro launch calmed wild speculation. Now, the rumor mill is grinding again over the Apple Vision Pro 2. Reports this week vary. A Chinese outlet says components like panels are currently churned out in mass production, while Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman claims Apple is working on two headsets—a Vision Pro upgrade featuring a potential M5 chip, and a lighter, cheaper model intended as a tethered Mac accessory. While this tethered concept is interesting, with Vision Pro already capable of Mac connections, its purpose is questionable without significant price cuts.
More intriguing is the AR glasses race against Meta. Gurman notes Apple CEO Tim Cook is laser-focused on AR glasses, hinting that this might shift the entire industry landscape—exciting stuff for XR enthusiasts!
Valve’s Next Step with Deckard
Brad Lynch’s insights suggest Valve is importing equipment to manufacture VR headset pieces stateside, likely for the anticipated Deckard model. The production moves imply a release might be closer than we think, increasing the hype. Valve aficionados should keep an eye out; the Deckard might drop this year (check this nifty site to see if it’s out).
Google and Samsung’s Glasses Vision for 2026
Teaming up, Google and Samsung are aiming for mixed reality glory with glasses slated for 2026, rather than a Ray-Ban Meta clone this year. With upgraded features, including displays and AI components, they’re positioning against Meta’s forthcoming releases. Recent demos hint at Google’s continued innovation in this space, so watch for impressive developments soon.
AltspaceVR’s Revival
In delightful news for longtime VR socialites, AltspaceVR is getting a fresh start! Danny Mac (aka Danny McLellan) is reviving the beloved platform using open-source tech to foster a lively community space. Skepticism understandably runs high as details are scarce, but it’s exciting to think AltspaceVR might rise again. I’ll be digging for more info, so stay tuned (subscribe to my newsletter to get updates straight to your inbox).
Mention-Worthy Highlights
Meta’s VR Entertainment Takes Flight
Meta’s VR in-flight program soared with Lufthansa, delighting passengers and winning awards. With plans to expand to more airlines, VR could soon be part of your travel experience, encouraging more headset ownership post-flight.
Varjo’s Consumer Focus Sideline
Varjo seems committed to its enterprise path, leaving little room for another consumer headset based on their current focus on training sims, particularly within military and aeronautical sectors.
Pico’s New Tracker and More…
Pico now offers a waist tracker enhancing full-body VR tracking precision, available for €50/£40. Meanwhile, the XR TEXT Trove unveils over 170 text entry methods, aiding researchers and designers in usability improvement quests.
Unstoppable Horizon Worlds?
Meta controversially decided to make Horizon Worlds a permanent fixture on Quest devices, stirring mixed reactions. Let’s hope future updates focus equally on customer satisfaction.
Fun, Reviews, and More
From exciting game announcements to standout reviews, there’s plenty bubbling under the surface. Whether it’s the mesmerizing sandbox ‘Besiege’ arriving on Quest or intriguing startups in mixed reality gaming, the industry remains abuzz.
Finally, a quick note on charity-end this roundup with a call to contribute to the dire humanitarian situation in Ukraine, through the Red Cross.
(Header image by Pimax)
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