The XR Weekly Roundup (November 19, 2024): Meta Unveils Project Aria Research Kits, Surge of Chinese Smartglasses Expected, and More!

Greetings from Finland! I’m penning this newsletter as I journey through the beautiful landscapes of Finland, from Helsinki to the enchanting Lapland. As always, my stay here has been delightful; I’ve had the chance to meet Santa Claus, pet some reindeers, and savor the local cuisine. I’m also gearing up to attend MatchXR, one of the most notable XR events in Nordic Europe! In a future update, I’ll share my experiences from there. Before diving into this week’s news, I want to dedicate this issue of my newsletter to the memory of Daniel Dyboski-Bryant, who recently passed away. Having met Daniel on a few occasions, both in person at events like AWE US and in virtual gatherings on platforms like ENGAGE, I can attest to his kindness and his fervor for employing VR as a positive force, especially within the realm of education. Daniel’s presence will surely be missed by all who knew him. Farewell, Daniel; your legacy will live on in our hearts.

Top News of the Week

Meta has made a significant move by opening applications for the Project Aria research kits. Introduced a few years back, Project Aria initially featured a pair of glasses equipped with numerous sensors like cameras and microphones, aimed at gathering data to train AI/ML systems for future AR developments. Initially restricted to internal Meta teams and select partners, these kits are now available to external research institutions. Universities and corporate research centers can apply for a Project Aria devkit via Meta’s website. Selected applicants will not only receive the glasses but also gain access to the entire development ecosystem, including a companion app, SDK, and cloud services. These cloud services include data storage and features such as environment reconstruction via point clouds and face or license plate obfuscation in videos. This opens exciting research opportunities for the AR future. Meta even showcases case studies from prestigious universities like Bristol, Iowa, and Carnegie Mellon to inspire interest.

Other Relevant News

The smart glasses market is experiencing a surge in activity, with a wave of new products, especially from China. Following the success of Ray-Ban Meta, companies like Xiaomi are reportedly developing competitive models. Xiaomi’s upcoming glasses, expected by Q2 2025, are being developed with Goertek, a major XR manufacturer. Meanwhile, Baidu has launched Xiaodu AI Glasses, boasting features like a 16MP camera and an array of microphones, priced under $290. Rokid has also announced its glasses, targeting 2D information display. The glasses are developed with BOLON, hinting at potential XR collaborations in China. Additionally, Amazon is rumored to be developing smart glasses codenamed "Amelia," aimed at aiding delivery drivers. These developments suggest a booming market for smart glasses. Thanks to DannieVR for notifying us about the Rokid announcement!

In another update, Meta has launched its Meta For Education program in beta. Aimed at academic institutions, it provides educational content and device management features for Quest headsets. Several universities, including Arizona State and the University of Miami, are already involved in the pilot. Meta looks to gather feedback to enhance the program before a broad release this winter. Complementing this, Meta has partnered with VictoryXR to create "metaversities," where students can engage in virtual campuses. Meta sees education as a strategic area for growth and widespread XR adoption.

Meta has also teased their Orion operating system with a video showcasing UI options for the Orion glasses, hinting at ongoing UI exploration for AR tech. Alex Coulombe, who tested Orion at Meta Connect, confirmed experiencing the UI shown in the video.

News Worth a Mention

Korean company bHaptics has revamped its lineup, introducing new haptic vests like the TactSuit Pro, priced at $499, and the TactSuit Air for $249. The updated TactSleeve is available for $199, with preorders open until November 26th. These devices are compatible with over 270 VR titles, allowing for exciting immersive experiences.

Horizon Worlds is rolling out Meta Credits, introducing a virtual currency to foster an in-world economy. This development is a crucial step in monetizing the platform and will impact creator transactions.

After much anticipation, Ekto VR begins shipping its first batch of virtual reality shoes, Genesis. Limited to a few early adopters, the shoes are priced between $2000 and $3000, with shipping expected by March 2025.

Other Notable Mentions

• MeRCURY, an XR headset for underwater usage, is available on IndieGoGo for €1250.
• Apple has released two new immersive experiences, including a music video with The Weeknd.

Game Updates and New Releases

• Ember Souls, a VR hack-and-slash game, launches on November 21st for $25.
• Mixed reality elements have been added to Gadgeteer on Quest 3.
• Beat Saber introduces the Monstercat Mixtape 2 DLC.
• New VR titles like Clone Drone in the Hyperdome and Boxing Underdog have been released, among others.

Additional Industry News

• Sony has discontinued the adapter needed for the original PSVR on PS5.
• New updates are available for Pico OS, and Apple Final Cut Pro now supports Spatial Video editing.

From Our Partners and Friends

The Global XR Design Challenge, supported by organizations like Immersive Insiders and ShapesXR, offers a prize pool of $10,000 for top XR design concepts. Registration is open for this exciting online event.

Story, a tool for creating spatial content on Vision Pro, has launched. It offers an immersive interface for integrating various media forms, enhancing content creation experiences.

For those looking to reach an engaged audience in the XR field, advertising opportunities are available on this platform to showcase your AR/VR products.

Let’s Spread Some Good

This week, I’m asking our community to support those affected by ongoing conflicts, such as the situation in Ukraine. A donation to the Red Cross can make a significant difference in their humanitarian efforts. A heartfelt thank you to all my supporters on Patreon. Your generosity keeps this work alive.

Thank you for staying tuned. Until next time, stay curious and inspired in your XR adventures!