XR News: Valve Delay, Meta UI, Xreal 6DoF

XR News: Major Updates from Google, Apple, and Meta

This week's XR news is dominated by significant updates from industry giants Google, Apple, and Meta, alongside advancements in 6DoF tracking technology. Google's smart glasses and Apple's upcoming release in late 2026 are generating buzz, while Meta's UI overhaul for Quest headsets promises a more immersive experience. Meanwhile, Xreal Eye's addition of 6DoF tracking to its display glasses is set to enhance user interaction in the XR space.

Google's smart glasses, equipped with a camera, microphones, and speakers, are part of a collaboration with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker for stylish designs. Samsung is also contributing by developing a "software and hardware reference platform." Apple, on the other hand, is planning to release its version of Ray-Ban Meta Glasses in late 2026, with prototypes expected this year and mass production beginning in 2025. These glasses will feature cameras, microphones, and speakers, positioning them as a direct competitor to Google's offering.

Meta's latest Quest update introduces the Navigator user interface, replacing the old universal menu. This update, part of Update 77, includes an AI tool for converting Instagram photos into 3D images, "following" windows, spatial audio, Bluetooth LE audio support, and text-to-speech functionality. The update aims to enhance the overall user experience, making the Quest headsets more intuitive and immersive.

Xreal Eye Adds 6DoF Tracking

Xreal Eye's new camera module brings 6DoF tracking to the Xreal One and One Pro display glasses. Weighing just 1.5 grams, the module captures photos and videos at up to 12MP resolution. Shipping is expected to begin in late June at a price point of $100. All delayed One Pro pre-orders are slated to ship by the end of May, ensuring that users can soon experience the enhanced tracking capabilities.

The addition of 6DoF tracking is a significant step forward for Xreal, as it allows for more precise and immersive interactions within virtual environments. This technology is crucial for applications ranging from gaming to professional use cases, where accurate tracking of movements is essential.

Valve's Next-Gen VR Headset Delayed

Valve's next-generation VR headset, codenamed "Deckard," may not arrive until 2026. This delay comes as Google's video chat platform, Beam, is slated for a 2025 launch, with HP producing the first units to be showcased at InfoComm in June. The delay in Valve's headset could impact the competitive landscape of the VR market, as other companies continue to innovate and release new products.

Despite the delay, Valve remains a key player in the VR industry, known for its high-quality hardware and innovative approaches to virtual reality. The anticipation for "Deckard" remains high, as users and industry experts alike await its eventual release.

New VR Experiences and Game Releases

Several new VR experiences and game releases are also making headlines. "Into The Radius 2," a survival shooter, is now available in Early Access for Meta Quest 3 and 3S. This port of the PC VR version offers roughly 15 hours of gameplay, 2K resolution at 72 FPS, and a beta co-op mode for two players. Additionally, "Trailblazer" is a complimentary interactive VR experience that allows users to retrace Bertha Benz's 1888 long-distance trip in the Benz Patent Motor Car.

For those interested in space exploration, "Cosmic XR" is a mixed reality app for Meta Quest that lets users explore the solar system and deep space. Priced at €9, the app allows users to manipulate the Milky Way, planets, and even Sagittarius A*, providing an immersive and educational experience.

In other gaming news, "Tier One: Direct Action" is struggling, and its Early Access version has been removed from the Horizon Store. However, "Into The Darkness VR," a sci-fi shooter, is launching in Early Access on May 29 for PC VR at around $20. "Maestro" is also set to arrive on PlayStation VR 2 on June 20, featuring a Star Wars content pack.

Conclusion

The XR industry continues to evolve rapidly, with major players like Google, Apple, and Meta driving innovation. From smart glasses to UI overhauls and 6DoF tracking, the latest developments promise to enhance user experiences across the board. As new VR headsets and experiences are released, the future of XR technology looks brighter than ever.