XR headsets Archives

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

Android XR apps will have camera permissions similar to Android phones

In December of last year, Google introduced Android XR, an extended reality operating system for virtual and mixed reality headsets, with a commercial launch planned for 2025. Samsung is developing a headset for this platform, called Project Moohan, and Google’s DeepMind subsidiary is creating a pair of smart glasses. Android XR app developers can request camera permissions similar to those on Android smartphones, allowing access to both world-facing and selfie cameras. Unlike Meta’s Quest 3 and Apple’s Vision Pro, which do not allow third-party camera access, Android XR will enable developers to access the living room feed through the headset's cameras to enhance mixed-reality applications. Developers can also request access to "Scene Understanding" features, including light estimation and advanced tracking capabilities for hand movements. Basic hand tracking functionalities will be available by default, with further details expected from Google soon.

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 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.

BetaBeacon

December 12, 2024

Inside [JOB] Aims To Onboard Android XR Users With A New Mixed Reality Game

Inside [JOB] is a mixed reality game from Owlchemy Labs, set to launch on Android XR. It serves as an onboarding experience for the platform, introducing players to unique gestures, interactive mixed reality, and virtual reality experiences.

AppWizard

November 15, 2024

The Google Glass companion app might find a new life with Android XR

Google has introduced the Android Glasses Core app as part of its latest Android beta update, which shares the same package name as the companion application for the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2. Samsung is expected to launch a new extended reality (XR) product in 2025, powered by a Qualcomm chipset, with a collaborative effort between Samsung, Qualcomm, and Google to develop a new version of Android for XR devices called Android XR. The recent beta release of Android 15 includes the Android Glasses Core app, categorized as a privileged system app, which has not been publicly available before. The app was previously associated with the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2, launched in 2019, and facilitated streaming applications when paired with an Android phone. The version in the beta is newer and features a refreshed icon, suggesting a potential shift in purpose. Speculation arises that Google may be repurposing the Android Glasses Core app for upcoming Android XR products. Additionally, the Google Play Store is preparing for applications designed for Android XR headsets, indicating a seamless installation process, while Samsung aims to enhance connectivity among its products, including XR devices.

AppWizard

October 29, 2024

Google Play Store seems to be preparing for a whole new category of Android device (APK teardown)

The Google Play Store is preparing to add support for extended reality (XR) headsets, as indicated by findings in the latest version of the Play Store app, which includes a new icon resembling an XR headset and a reference to “XR headset.” This development suggests the possibility of a dedicated section for XR applications, coinciding with the anticipated launch of next-generation Android-powered XR headsets. Various manufacturers have approached XR software differently, and Google's endorsement of XR applications could benefit manufacturers in a competitive market.