As we bid farewell to the year, it’s only natural to look back and reflect on the journey we’ve had. I’ve shared some really insightful pieces over the year about my experiences in the XR world during 2024. If you haven’t had a chance to check them out yet, I recommend giving them a read. In one, I delve into the various XR events I attended, while the other takes a closer look at the state of XR, highlighting both its highs and lows. But that’s not all; as you catch up on the latest stories I’m about to report, make sure you also take some time to celebrate with the people who matter to you. Here’s to an incredible 2025, filled with great adventures and happiness! 🎉
Top news of the week
Some Meta Quest headsets encountered issues this Christmas
Meta’s recent v72 update has unfortunately caused some Meta Quest headsets to malfunction. The devices most impacted were those that had not been updated in a while, requiring a cumulative update. Users faced a boot screen indicating the device was corrupt, which was especially disappointing during the holiday season as many received these headsets as gifts. There was quite a stir online with users voicing their dissatisfaction. Initially, Meta’s response was slow, possibly due to the holidays, and their service team refused to assist those with headsets out of warranty. However, after numerous complaints, Meta acknowledged the problem, fixed the glitch, and extended support, even to those out of warranty. They’ve even offered a free Quest 3S replacement and some Horizon Store credits to the affected users. Though Meta eventually managed the situation well, it might be time they reconsidered their update schedules. Releasing critical updates right before a holiday isn’t the best move, as any issues can go unresolved due to the lack of support staff available.
More information: Bricked Quest issue | Cursed boot screen | Initial Meta response | Meta’s resolution | Replacement details
Other relevant news
Pimax introduces the Dream Air headset
In typical Pimax fashion, they’ve unveiled yet another device, the Dream Air headset. Unlike their earlier, bulkier models, Dream Air is compact and targets the same audience interested in devices like the BigScreen Beyond, Visor, or MeganeX. What sets it apart is its promise of features like hand tracking, eye tracking, and new user-experience technologies such as auto-fitting head straps. There’s also an optional external puck named Cobb that transforms the headset into a semi-standalone device. It comes equipped with a battery and a Snapdragon XR2 chip.
Some of the Dream Air features revealed by Road to VR include:
- Dual micro-OLED displays with 100% DCI-P3 color
- Per-eye resolution of 13MP (3,840 × 3,552)
- Maximum refresh rate of 90Hz
- Pancake optics with a 102° horizontal field of view
- Black & white passthrough view
- Automatic IPD adjustments with optional prescription lenses
- Dream Air controllers and hand tracking for input
- Inside-out headset tracking, SteamVR tracking (optional)
Priced at around $1900 with a predicted mid-2025 release, Pimax is confident, possibly due to shared components with their Crystal Super model. However, given Pimax’s history, a delay isn’t entirely unexpected. The community is split on this latest release—some welcome it, while others question the plethora of announcements. Pimax’s PR efforts, led by Japp with his Zen-like calmness, have been extensive. An intriguing analysis suggests that Pimax’s strategy might be to quickly capitalize on emerging trends in PCVR, often launching products that may not fully deliver but capture market attention. This approach seems to be working, given the competitive edge the Pimax Crystal Light currently holds in the market. Dream Air aims to challenge recent developments like the MeganeX SuperLight 8K, focusing on clarity and comfort rather than just field of view.
Let’s see if the Dream Air lives up to its potential. I’ll keep you informed as more details emerge.
(Thanks to Rob Cole for the tip!)
More information: Pimax Dream Air announcement | Pimax Dream Air video | Official Pimax product page | Pimax Dream Air FAQ | Pimax’s strategic analysis
Meta’s potential new addition to Ray-Ban Meta glasses
The Ray-Ban Meta glasses have been a hit this past year, and it appears Meta isn’t resting on its laurels. Rumors are swirling about a new model featuring a small display for notifications and AI interactions. While Meta has been eyeing this space for a while, the noteworthy part is in a Financial Times report suggesting this addition would still be part of the stylish Ray-Ban line. It seems Luxottica, previously hesitant about adding a display due to bulk concerns, might be on board. If so, this could leverage Luxottica’s vast distribution network, significantly boosting the chances of success.
Upcoming device reveals at CES
CES is just around the corner, and I’m excited! A few teasers have already come out: Sony is holding a keynote titled "Create Infinite Realities," DPVR plans to reveal a new mystery product, and NVIDIA may showcase their RTX 50 series cards. With such an assembly of tech companies, next week promises to be thrilling, and I’ll be on the ground to bring you exclusive updates.
Quick mentions:
- The Meta Horizon app became a top download during the holidays, hinting at robust Quest headset sales.
- Pico has announced SecureMR, which provides passthrough API functions while protecting privacy, albeit potentially limiting developers.
- The impending shutdown of Magic Leap One servers means these devices will soon be obsolete, marking the end of an era for users.
- LiDAR data is increasingly accessible, with numerous countries offering programs akin to Tokyo’s recent release.
Road to VR’s top games of the year
Road to VR, a leading XR publication, has unveiled its picks for the year’s best games. While Batman: Arkham Shadow has snagged the top spot for Quest, there are a few surprising selections among the other categories. Check them out for some potential hidden gems!
Fanatical’s winter VR game bundle
In gaming deals, Fanatical is offering a "Build your own Quest VR Bundle." With games valued at a significant discount, it’s an excellent opportunity to grab multiple titles for a fraction of the price.
Some content tidbits:
- The creators of "Blade & Sorcery" are working on a new physics-based, moddable game.
- "Attack on Titan VR: Unbreakable" has released its ‘Complete Edition’ with positive fan feedback.
- Game Night, a Quest party game, blends cerebral and physical mini-games and looks promising from its trailer.
Other noteworthy news:
- Samsung’s XR headset might include Google’s "Find My Device" feature.
- It’s been discovered that the Quest’s startup animation is an animated 3D model, not a pre-rendered video.
Partner and friend updates
As this week’s partner news is light, I’d like to extend warm holiday wishes. May your days be filled with joy and happiness. Enjoy this magical season with your loved ones.
XR Fun
Check out some amusing tidbits in the XR space:
- A wall AI didn’t expect to hit!
- The fun (or lack thereof) of techies at parties.
- Meta Horizon Worlds at its unique best.
- Pimax’s "original" designs and more meme-worthy moments.
Make a difference
Once again, I’ll use this closing moment to urge you to extend a helping hand to those affected by the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Please consider donating to organizations like the Red Cross to support those in need during these challenging times. And here’s a heartfelt thank you to all my Patreon supporters who keep my content going!
Support the Red Cross in Ukraine.
(Header image by Pimax)
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