Introduction to AR/VR in 2024
We’re six months into 2024, and the primary half of the yr has been exciting for augmented and virtual reality tech. Several major announcements have been made, including the launch of the Apple Vision Pro, Meta’s decision to open up its Horizon OS to third-party headsets, and Xreal’s recent glasses and spatial computing accessory.
Biggest Announcements So Far
The Apple Vision Pro was one of the crucial anticipated product launches of the yr. Although it received a variety of attention when it was released in February, the hype has died down, and the upcoming global launch on July 12 doesn’t appear to have reignited major interest within the device. However, the VR space was given a big boost when Meta announced that its Horizon OS can be available on third-party headsets, starting with devices from ASUS, Lenovo, and Xbox. This move is predicted to steer to the event of a wider range of headset designs, specializing in distinct niches like gaming, productivity, and exercise.
Meta’s Horizon OS
The Horizon OS is taken into account the most effective standalone VR platform because of its intuitive UI, massive software library, and regular updates. By making it available on third-party headsets, Meta is opening up recent possibilities for VR technology. However, it is not all excellent news from Meta, as the corporate has cut support for the unique Oculus Quest headset. April 30 was the last day developers could send app updates to the device, and August will mark the ultimate month Meta will send out critical bug fixes and security patches.
Xreal’s New Releases
In the AR space, Xreal announced the Xreal Air 2 Ultra and a handy Xreal Beam Pro accessory, which is actually a spatial computing-ready smartphone. The Xreal Air 2 Ultra is billed as a more cost-effective alternative to the Apple Vision Pro, with in-built cameras that allow users to interact with virtual elements using their hands.
Upcoming Launches
The second half of 2024 is predicted to be just as exciting, with several recent launches on the horizon. One of probably the most anticipated releases is the Meta Quest 3S, a more cost-effective version of the Meta Quest 3. The device is believed to pack the identical brain because the Quest 3, but with a number of downgrades, including a bulkier Quest 2-like body.
Meta Quest 3S and Other Releases
Meta hasn’t officially confirmed the Quest 3S, but it surely has leaked the device twice, which suggests that it can be released soon. The company has also teased its first pair of AR glasses, although they should not expected to launch until 2027. A pair of precursor smart glasses is predicted in 2025 to update the AI-powered Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses product line. Additionally, Samsung and Google may release their highly-anticipated XR/VR headset, which was announced over a yr ago but has been delayed because of reactions to the Apple Vision Pro.
Conclusion
The first half of 2024 has been an exciting time for AR and VR technology, with several major announcements and releases. The second half of the yr is predicted to be just as exciting, with recent launches and developments on the horizon. As the technology continues to evolve, we will expect to see more progressive products and experiences that may change the! way we interact with the world around us. With the Meta Quest 3S, Xreal’s recent releases, and potentially the Samsung XR/VR headset, the longer term of AR and VR is looking vibrant.
