Certainly! Let’s dive into the latest buzz in the tech world, particularly focusing on players like Apple, Meta, Google, and Valve. We have a lot to catch up on, so be sure to stick around until the end where we’ve got some exciting mixed reality game keys to give away! And as always, feel free to check out my latest piece discussing the XR scene in China and my upcoming adventure in Shanghai.
Headsets May Escape the US Tariff Trap
The story around US tariffs remains a swirling confusion with updates seemingly every few days. It’s a bit unclear just how XR headsets might be impacted, so most companies are cautiously waiting for clarity. Pimax and BigScreen, however, have taken a stand, trying to shield their users from any potential cost hikes. BigScreen is entirely absorbing the hit, whereas Pimax will be adding a modest regional fee of $75-$95 for US buyers. It’s great to see companies striving to keep prices in check because lower prices mean more headsets in the hands of consumers. Even better, it seems like tariffs on XR headsets are being removed, according to sources at Upload VR. While that’s cause for cautious optimism, we should keep an eye on potential tariffs on electronic chips as they might ruffle our industry in other ways.
Other Noteworthy News
Apple’s Vision Pro 2 and the Quest for AR Glasses
The debut of Apple’s Vision Pro put an end to many wild speculations. But now, the rumor mill is back in full swing with talks of the Vision Pro 2. According to a Chinese source, the Vision Pro 2 is in production, and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman adds that Apple may be producing two headsets, including a lighter and cheaper one. More intriguing is Gurman’s note that Apple’s CEO is heavily focused on AR glasses, keen on outpacing Meta in this race. It seems AR is where the future clashes will occur.
Valve’s Deckard Developments
Our trusted source, Brad Lynch, reports that Valve is importing equipment in preparation for manufacturing VR headset facial interfaces in the US. This move suggests that Valve is getting serious about its upcoming Deckard headset, edging closer to production and a potential launch announcement soon.
Google and Samsung’s 2026 Glasses Vision
Murmurs have it that Google and Samsung are forging ahead with XR projects, including a mixed reality headset due this year and a pair of XR glasses slated for 2026. They seem to have pivoted from earlier plans, opting for a more technologically ambitious model that integrates displays and cameras. I think it makes sense to take their time with this, especially with Meta’s anticipated release.
AltspaceVR Makes a Comeback
Unexpectedly, AltspaceVR is seeing a revival thanks to Danny Mac (McLellan), who’s breathing new life into the beloved social VR space. He aims to nurture a vibrant community while offering creative tools. This is an exciting revival, though plenty of questions about the project’s development and funding remain.
Quick News Bits
- Meta plans to expand VR in-flight entertainment after success with Lufthansa.
- Varjo is likely staying away from the consumer market for now.
- Pico introduces a waist tracker for enhanced full-body tracking.
- A repository, XR TEXT Trove, now catalogs over 170 XR text entry techniques.
Content Highlights and Deals
- Let loose on the Quest this May with the release of the physics sandbox game ‘Besiege’.
- ‘GORN 2’ makes its way to Quest & PC VR on April 17th, with a PSVR 2 release planned for summer.
- ‘Civilization VII VR’ is now available on Quest 3, albeit with some reported performance issues.
In Other News
- DaVinci Resolve 20’s latest feature supports Apple Immersive Video editing.
- Hyperfy emerges as a promising world-creation platform using WebXR technology.
- Exciting new developments are afoot with the US Army kicking off another AR-focused project.
Get In on the Action!
We’re thrilled to offer a giveaway for the mixed reality game, Alex And The Jets! Engage in thrilling aerial combat right in your living room. Be quick to snag one of the free codes provided at the end for a shot at some exciting gameplay. Don’t miss out on this chance to dive into the action for free!
Moment of Goodwill
Finally, while I’ve got your attention, let’s turn support to the Red Cross to aid those affected by the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. A heartfelt thanks to my Patreon supporters who make these updates possible. Your generosity helps sustain our shared journey into exploring the frontiers of XR.
Thank you all for tuning in, and please consider contributing to a worthy cause. Here’s the link to donate: [Support The Red Cross in Ukraine].
As always, feel free to share this roundup with fellow innovators. Let’s keep the conversation going and the innovation flowing!
