The XR Weekly Update (December 2, 2024): Leak of Valve Roy Controllers 3D Designs, Black Friday VR Specials, and More!

Wishing a joyful Thanksgiving weekend to all my American pals! While Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated in Italy, I’m well aware of its importance in the US, Canada, and several other nations, so I hope those of you who participated enjoyed wonderful family moments. As for everyone else, I hope you snagged some fantastic deals during Black Friday! My own shopping spree included a much-needed new phone after my friend in Helsinki jokingly inquired if there was a fundraising page to help replace my battered old one! Before diving into this week’s XR updates, a quick note: I’ve joined Bluesky! Feel free to follow me if you’re there too, as I’m exploring new platforms due to dwindling engagement on X. But don’t worry, I’m still active on both!

Top News of the Week

In a notable find, dataminers have uncovered 3D models of Valve Roy controllers hidden within SteamVR files, affirming earlier leaks. This suggests Valve is progressing with these controllers, hinting at a nearing launch for the Deckard headset. With these models surfacing in SteamVR, there’s speculation that a complete headset release could happen by 2025. The models highlight previously revealed details, including bumpers, a D-pad, thumbsticks, and more, allowing for comprehensive game controller functionality. Additionally, datamining indicates Valve’s use of Arcturus Technologies’ reliable inside-out tracking technology, as demonstrated in a 2020 video, which bodes well for the Deckard headset’s mixed reality capabilities.

Want more details? Discover further information on SteamVR’s Valve Roy controllers and their connection to Arcturus Technologies.

Other Relevant News

Cyber Monday continues the VR deals from Black Friday! Here are some standout offers:

• PSVR 2 is now just $350, bundled with the acclaimed Horizon Call of the Mountain. It’ll be intriguing to see if this discount spikes sales again.
• The Pico 4 Ultra offers Pico Motion Trackers, three games, and a month of VRChat Plus within a bundle.
• Quest 3S is priced at $299.99 in some US stores, accompanied by a $75 gift card.
• HTC discounts: Vive Focus Vision comes with a free DisplayPort adapter and game bundle; Vive XR Elite is reduced by $100, or $150 if bundled with Vive Ultimate Trackers; Vive Pro 2 offers $400 off the full kit or $200 off the headset alone.
• On the Horizon (Quest) Store, use code ‘BFCM24’ at checkout to receive up to 40% off select titles, code valid multiple times.

For complete details: Check out VR game discounts across Quest, Pico, SteamVR, and PlayStation stores.

Apple’s XR Journey: A Long Time Coming

Apple’s Vision Pro is rumored to have been in development for over seven years. However, a 2008 patent points to even earlier experimentation with VR concepts. Mac World unearthed a patent depicting a device reminiscent of the Vision Pro, suggesting Apple’s long-term interest in immersive reality. Although big companies often patent ideas without immediate application, this discovery shows Apple’s early interest predating even the Oculus Rift.

VRChat Implements Age Verification

Partnering with Persona, VRChat now offers age verification via government ID and device camera. Not mandatory for all, it is necessary for certain “Age Verification” instances. Adults can display an optional “Verified 18+” badge. Initial rollout will be phased, focusing on reducing bugs. This step addresses long-standing user requests for age-appropriate interactions, though it’s anticipated that not all will opt for this verification. It’s a savvy move by VRChat, easing privacy concerns by making verification optional for specific contexts.

Noteworthy Mentions

• Pimax introduces the Crystal Super, which boasts impressive specs on paper. However, there’s community confusion regarding its Pimax Prime subscription, meant to cover a two-year licensing for Pimax software.
• XREAL teases new AR glasses, set for a December 4th reveal.
• Virtual reality gets quirky as Flinders University researchers use tiny VR setups to study insect behavior, offering groundbreaking insights.
• A novel virtual lollipop, developed by University of Hong Kong researchers, simulates a range of flavors using hydrogel technology, including the infamous durian.

Tom Emrich Releases a New Book

Tom Emrich, a leader in AR, has unveiled his new book, "The Next Dimension: How to Use Augmented Reality for Business Growth in the Era of Spatial Computing." Featuring industry insights and data, it’s a must-read for entrepreneurs exploring AR opportunities.

Halo Enters VR Realm

A mod now allows Halo: Combat Evolved to be experienced in VR on PC, complete with motion controls and other features. User feedback, notably on Reddit, has been very positive.

Content Updates and Reviews

• Home Sports debuts on Meta Horizon Store on December 11 for $20.
• The Premier League Player game launches on Meta Quest on December 3.
• Trivia Crack World offers a VR challenge, now available on Quest for $10.
• The Vision Pro’s Spatial Web Shooter makes a compelling mixed reality experience.

Other News

Innovation continues with Miroslav Kotalík’s debut of Zero V2 AR glasses, the ANNAPRO A2 strap enhancing Apple Vision Pro comfort, and ongoing sluggish growth within the PCVR market.

Partner News

GroKit Core presents a low-code XR development platform in Unity, simplifying the creation of XR applications by handling core functionalities like interactions and multiplayer setup.

Some XR Fun

Dig into amusing XR content, including deals and headset comparisons, guaranteed to entertain and amuse!

Allowing Generosity to Shine

This week, rather than seeking support for my blog, I encourage donations to those affected by the ongoing war, such as contributions to the Red Cross for aiding humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. My heartfelt thanks to my Patreon supporters for their continued assistance.

If interested, the link to donate is available: Support The Red Cross in Ukraine.