headset Archives

AppWizard

December 28, 2024

Google just gave us our first look at what Samsung XR headset apps might look like

Samsung's XR headset, known as Project Moohan, will debut within the next year and is powered by the Snapdragon XR Plus Gen 2 chip. The Android XR developer blog features a six-second video showing app windows layered over real-world environments. Android XR has two modes: Home Space, which allows multitasking with multiple app windows, and Full Space, which offers a single window experience against a virtual backdrop. Home Space is the default view, with a toggle to switch between modes. Samsung's app windows are expected to reflect the aesthetic of One UI. Android XR will support various input methods, including hand and eye tracking, voice commands, keyboard and mouse, and dedicated controllers. CES 2025, starting January 7, will provide more information about the headset's features and capabilities.

Winsage

December 26, 2024

How to Use Windows on Meta Quest 3 Headsets

At Ignite 2024, Microsoft announced enhanced support for Windows applications on Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S devices, allowing users to access Microsoft’s suite of tools without additional software. Users can create multiple virtual windows for multitasking, such as switching between Microsoft Teams and spreadsheets. Previously, users accessed Windows apps via Air Link, Remote Desktop in Horizon Workrooms, or third-party software. The new integration allows streaming from a Windows 11 PC or virtual Windows Cloud PC, enabling quick access to Windows applications in an XR environment. This functionality includes creating multiple virtual monitors or a single large monitor while maintaining visibility of physical surroundings. The experience is supported by a program called “Volumetric Apps.” Microsoft has discontinued its “Windows Mixed Reality” platform but continues to support XR innovators. Microsoft also announced the end of software support for HoloLens 2 in 2027 and hinted at a new deal with Samsung for OLED displays for a future mixed-reality headset.

Winsage

December 24, 2024

Windows Central Tech Awards 2024 — Ranking the top PCs, tools, accessories, and software innovations of the year

This year has seen significant advancements in consumer technology, particularly in artificial intelligence, highlighted by Microsoft's Copilot+ PC initiative in collaboration with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processor, introducing fanless, battery-efficient laptops to the Windows ecosystem. AI companies like OpenAI have expanded their offerings, prompting competitors such as Google, xAI, and Facebook to enhance their products. New brands like XREAL have emerged, while established companies like ASUS have innovated with dual-screen laptops. Accessory manufacturers have also improved their products. The Windows Central Tech Awards for 2024 recognize standout devices and features across various categories, including Tech Innovator of the Year, Best Processor, Best Overall Laptop, Best Keyboard, Best Pre-Built Gaming PC, Best Mini PC, Best Gaming Laptop, Best Gaming Headset, Best Tech Accessory, Best Monitor, Best Gaming Input, Best Gaming Hardware, Best Desktop All-in-One, Best Budget Laptop, Best Business Laptop, Best Mobile App for Windows Users, Best Windows Feature, Best Mouse, and Best Windows PC App. Looking ahead to 2025, advancements in AI, robotics, cloud computing, and potential breakthroughs in 6G and quantum computing are anticipated, with Microsoft focusing on AI server technology acquisitions and developments in PC gaming handhelds and new Xbox hardware.

BetaBeacon

December 22, 2024

Android XR could be Google’s Daydream redemption, and VR games can help

Daydream had issues such as draining phone batteries and lack of smartphone support. Google abandoned Daydream just as Quest began to take off. Google could potentially regain ground in the XR market by focusing on gaming, offering a curated selection of apps, supporting hand-tracking and controllers, and utilizing powerful hardware like Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2. The success of Android XR will depend on how well Google can differentiate itself from competitors like Meta and Apple.

Winsage

December 18, 2024

Fan of Microsoft’s Windows PC accessories? They’ve been resurrected by another brand

Incase has launched a new line of peripherals in collaboration with Microsoft, reviving previously discontinued devices such as the Modern Mobile Mouse and the Mobile Mouse 1850. This marks Incase's entry into the PC accessories market, expanding beyond bags and sleeves. The partnership aims to combine Microsoft's innovation with Incase's performance and style. Incase plans to revive other Microsoft products, including the Sculpt keyboard and mouse, the Wireless Comfort keyboard and mouse, the Modern Mobile Headset, and the Modern Webcam, maintaining their original designs. The Modern Mobile Mouse is priced at .99, while the Mobile Mouse 1850 is available for .99.

Winsage

December 18, 2024

The first “Designed by Microsoft” accessories from Incase are now available to buy

Microsoft discontinued its line of PC accessories last year but announced a collaboration with Incase to revive some of these products. The partnership combines Microsoft's legacy of innovation with Incase's performance and aesthetic appeal. They previously collaborated on the official Surface Hub stand. The reintroduced accessories, like the Modern Mobile Mouse and Mobile Mouse 1850, feature Incase branding instead of Microsoft’s. Incase plans to release more accessories under the Designed by Microsoft label, including the Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard, Bluetooth Ergonomic Mouse, Modern Webcam, and Wireless Headset. The Modern Mobile Mouse is priced at .99, and the Mobile Mouse 1850 at .99 on Amazon. Microsoft continues to develop its own accessories under the Surface brand, including the Surface Desktop Keyboard and a new Flex Keyboard for the Surface Pro.

AppWizard

December 16, 2024

Here’s how you’ll know if an app was built for Android XR (APK teardown)

Google is launching Android XR to support augmented, mixed, and virtual reality applications, utilizing advanced hardware like Samsung's upcoming "Moohan" headset. The Google Play Store is introducing a “Made for XR” label with a headset icon to help users identify apps optimized for XR experiences. This label will appear in app listings and search results, aiding in the discovery of compatible applications. Microsoft Edge has already begun to support this new technology, indicating early adoption in the XR ecosystem. The enhancements in the Play Store aim to assist developers and users as the XR hardware market grows.

AppWizard

December 15, 2024

Android XR: The Gemini era comes to headsets and glasses

The upcoming launch of Android XR, featuring headsets developed by Samsung under the codename Project Moohan, is set for next year. These headsets will enable users to transition between immersive virtual environments and the real world, enhanced by an AI assistant named Gemini. Gemini will assist users in interacting with their surroundings and managing tasks. Google is also adapting popular applications for this headset experience, allowing users to watch YouTube and Google TV on a virtual big screen, view Google Photos in 3D, explore Google Maps in an Immersive View, manage multiple virtual screens with Chrome, and use Circle to Search for information. Android XR will support existing mobile and tablet applications from Google Play, with more tailored content expected to be released next year.

Winsage

December 13, 2024

Microsoft XR and Windows Mixed Reality: Could the HoloLens Make a Comeback?

Microsoft introduced the Windows Mixed Reality platform in 2017, enabling various PC manufacturers to create consumer-ready XR headsets. In 2016, Microsoft launched the HoloLens, followed by the HoloLens 2, which was aimed at enterprise users but struggled in the consumer market. Recently, Microsoft discontinued the HoloLens and ceased support for Windows Mixed Reality, leading to speculation about its future in XR. In December 2023, Microsoft announced the removal of Windows Mixed Reality from Windows 11, making previous devices inoperable after a 2024 update. Despite this, Microsoft is shifting towards becoming a software provider for other XR vendors, partnering with companies like Unity and Meta to develop mixed reality solutions for devices like the Quest 3. Microsoft also announced a long-term partnership with RealWear for distributing Power Apps for smart glasses. The HoloLens 2 will continue to receive security updates until December 2027, but no new HoloLens headsets are in development. Microsoft has partnered with Samsung to produce mini OLED panels for a potential new line of mixed reality headsets, with mass production expected in 2026.

Winsage

December 13, 2024

Windows 11 Mixed Reality support revived for Meta Quest 3, Quest 3S headsets

Microsoft has revived its Mixed Reality feature, previously retired for all but the HoloLens, now limited to the Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S. The integration includes three key features: immersive and private productivity, Windows 365 Cloud PCs, and easy PC connection. Users can connect to their PCs or subscribe to a Windows 365 Cloud PC for remote access via their headset. The broader Windows Mixed Reality program was officially retired in December 2023 after about six years, and its future beyond the partnership with Meta is uncertain. Windows Mixed Reality struggled to attract customers compared to other VR offerings, with the entry-level market led by Oculus and the high-end segment occupied by HTC and Valve.