The XR Weekly Preview (01/21/2025): XR Developments Unfold, Windows 11 Update Disables WMR, and More!

Having been hit with the notorious CES bug, I can assure you that it doesn’t just vanish once the event is over. Still, my desire to keep you informed trumps this cold, so here’s a roundup of XR news that I know you’ll enjoy!

Top Stories of the Week

The Challenging Season for XR

It’s no secret that the immersive tech market is in a bit of a slump right now. We all recognize the potential of AR and VR, but currently, they remain somewhat niche technologies. This week reinforced that sentiment with several developments:

• The team behind PowerWash Simulator VR decided to stop updates due to costs outweighing profits, just 14 months after launch.
• Soul Assembly, creators of Drop Dead: The Cabin and Just Dance VR, is cutting 15% of its workforce.
• An analysis by Omdia and Sensor Tower showed a 27% drop in downloads of the Meta Horizon app on Christmas Day 2024 compared to 2023. Factors could include a lack of compelling reasons to upgrade from Quest 2 to newer models.
• Counterpoint Research reported a 4% decline in the global VR market in Q3 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
• Former Sony executive Shuhei Yoshida expressed regret over overestimating PS VR2.
• After an impressive seven years, the F.Reality podcast has concluded.

These updates echo the concerns shared by Blair Renaud, the mind behind LOW-FI, who voiced his frustrations and uncertainties about the industry’s future. Such feelings resonate with many developers today.

However, not all is bleak:

• Forbes published an article lauding the metaverse as a preferred space for the younger generation over traditional social media.
• Counterpoint’s analysis also noted more Apple Vision Pro shipments than initially expected, especially international ones.
• Beat Saber is on the verge of selling 10 million copies on Quest alone.

I believe we’re facing a tough couple of years ahead. While CES didn’t present groundbreaking shifts in AR/VR tech, aside from advancements in smart glasses, there is hope. Despite the challenges, with patience and perseverance, things will eventually improve.

For more insights:

• [Analysis of XR in 2024]
• [End of Powerwash Simulator Development]
• [Soul Assembly Layoffs]
• [Quest Sales Analysis – Road To VR]
• [Quest Sales Analysis – LinkedIn]
• [Counterpoint Research on XR Market]
• [Shuhei Yoshida on PSVR 2]
• [End of the F.Reality Podcast]
• [Blair Renaud’s Concerns]
• [Forbes Article on Metaverse]
• [Apple Vision Pro Sales]
• [Beat Saber Sales]

Other Noteworthy News

Microsoft Enforces Windows 11 24H2 Update

For those of you avoiding the Windows 11 24H2 update, Microsoft’s latest move to enforce it on various operating systems might be unsettling. This update effectively marks the end of Mixed Reality support in the OS, rendering Windows Mixed Reality headsets pretty unusable. If you own a Pro version or are part of an enterprise setup, you might still have options, but it’s overwhelming for Home edition users. My heart goes out to those hanging onto their WMR devices, now faced with this unexpected obsolescence.

New ASUS Trailer for AirVision M1 Glasses

Recently, ASUS released an exciting trailer for its AirVision M1 smart glasses. Though introduced at CES 2024, I just came across them and thought to share. The 3DOF glasses provide a virtual screen experience, boasting 1100 nits brightness, 60% lens transparency, TÜV Rheinland certification, and built-in speakers. They’re compatible with Windows PCs and Rog Ally consoles and weigh just 87g. They enable a virtual multi-screen setup for your computer for $700—a bit more than the XREAL One Pro’s $600 price tag.

Additional info:

• [ASUS AirVision M1 Glasses Trailer]
• [ASUS AirVision M1 Glasses Shop Page]

News That Caught My Eye

Palmer Luckey Teases Upcoming Announcement

Responding to Blair Renaud on X, Palmer Luckey hinted at an upcoming VR reveal that might shift perspectives. Could this relate to the military VR headset teased at AWE, or something entirely new? The anticipation is real.

Somnium Space Adjusts Headset Prices

Recognizing manufacturing challenges, Somnium Space has increased its headset price by €5–700:

• Somnium VR1 Visionary Edition: €3000 + VAT
• Somnium VR1 Titan Edition: €3400 + VAT
• Somnium VR1 Ultimate Edition €4300 + VAT

Meta Unveils High-Efficiency Red MicroLED

In collaboration with Plessey, Meta introduces "the world’s brightest" red microLED display for AR glasses, boasting 6M nits and using minimal power—essential for outdoor wear. According to Dr. Keith Strickland of Plessey, this is a "major breakthrough" for AR tech development.

Ray-Ban Meta Glasses for Chess

Two innovative developers, Caden Li and Eddy Xu, used Ray-Ban Meta glasses to provide chess players with enhanced abilities. By capturing the board and streaming to a chess AI, the glasses suggest moves through their speakers, allowing anyone to play at a master level. This showcases the potential of AI-integrated smart glasses in gaming.

Jayden Daniels: A Sports Star via Virtual Reality

Quarterback Jayden Daniels recently made headlines, leading the Washington Commanders to an NFL playoff win. He credited Virtual Reality for his rigorous daily training, proving VR’s effectiveness in sports preparation.

More on these stories:

• [Blair Renaud’s Post]
• [Somnium Space Headset Pricing]
• [Red MicroLED Breakthrough]
• [Ray-Ban Meta Chess Demo]
• [Jayden Daniels VR Training]

Content and Game Updates

This week saw some exciting launches and updates:

• GRIM: A survival game, now in early access on Quest and SteamVR
• Tablecraft: A "mad science" VR sandbox game, offering free experimentation with chemical elements, now in early access on Quest
• Lovesick: A VR puzzle game about a band’s burnt-out bassist, available March 6 on Meta Quest
• Rogue Piñatas: VRmageddon: Hits Meta Quest February 6, with a Steam release in spring
• Firewall Ultra: Surprises with an update, despite its studio’s shut down last year

Reviews of the Week:

• Upload commends the mech emulation in Iron Rebellion.
• Arken Age stands out with vibrant presentation and rewarding combat.
• Assetto Corsa EVO enters Early Access but comes with some issues.
• The Thrill Of The Fight 2 offers a fresh angle on boxing in multiplayer.
• Human Within, unfortunately, falls short in delivering a branching story experience.

Explore more:

• [GRIM]
• [TableCraft]
• [Lovesick]
• [Rogue Piñatas: VRmageddon]
• [Firewall Ultra]
• [XR News Round-Up]

Additional Interesting Tidbits

Meta’s decision to remove the achievement viewing app from the headset has upset users and developers alike. Curious about the tiny LED near the Quest 3S’s cameras? You’re not alone! The Visor headset’s release still remains a mystery with fluctuating reviews and blocked inquiries on Discord. And in fun AR projects, Michael Gschwandtner is crafting affordable AR glasses for the Nintendo Switch.

Events and Workshops

There’s a unique chance to join a musical metaverse workshop at the IEEE International Symposium on the Internet of Sounds in L’Aquila, Italy, from October 29-31. This workshop aims to unite academia and industry to explore innovation in Musical XR and networked environments. If you’re researching "Musical XR systems for networked interactions" or "Digital twins for musical applications," consider submitting your work for a chance to connect with like-minded peers.

XR Humor and Good Causes

For a lighter side, check out some humorous links about Meta hardware, XR business challenges, and future Quest testing requirements. On a serious note, instead of supporting this blog, consider donating to the Red Cross to assist those affected by the Ukraine conflict. Your help could make a significant difference.

Support the Red Cross in Ukraine. Thank you to all my Patreon supporters who have shown immense support, I couldn’t do this without you.

(Header image adapted from a Microsoft image)

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