The XR Weekly Highlights (2024.12.02): Leak of Valve Roy Controllers 3D Models, Black Friday VR Discounts, and More!

Wishing a happy Thanksgiving weekend to all my American pals! Though we don’t celebrate it in Italy, I understand how significant this holiday is for folks in the U.S., Canada, and a few other places. I hope everyone who did partake enjoyed some quality family time. For the rest who didn’t, maybe you scored some fantastic deals during Black Friday! I snagged a few items myself, the highlight being a new phone. My old one was in such bad shape that a friend in Helsinki jokingly asked if there was a fundraiser to help me get a new one—point taken! Before we dive into this week’s XR news, a quick shoutout: I’ve joined Bluesky! Feel free to follow me there. X has been tough for engagement lately, so I’m exploring new avenues with Bluesky while still sticking around on X. You can find me on both platforms for now.

Top News of the Week

Discovery of Roy Controllers’ 3D models in SteamVR

Dataminers have uncovered the 3D models of Valve’s Roy controllers within SteamVR’s code, bolstering recent leaks about their existence. This revelation suggests that Valve is nearing the final stages of preparing these controllers, hinting at the Deckard headset’s imminent release, potentially by 2025. The models confirm elements from the leaks: the presence of bumpers, a D-pad, thumbsticks, various buttons, and triggers, all contributing to a comprehensive gamepad function. This setup allows users to enjoy a vast range of Steam games on a grand scale with the Roy controllers. Additionally, the datamine showed that Valve employs Arcturus Technologies’ tech for inside-out tracking. With Arcturus’s track record in reliable tracking and stereo passthrough from their 2020 demo, we’re optimistic about the Deckard headset’s mixed reality capabilities.

For more on Valve Roy controllers and Arcturus’s technology, check out the provided links.

Other Relevant News

Don’t Miss These Cyber Monday Deals!

The Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend VR sales are still hot! Here are some standout offers:

• PSVR 2 is significantly reduced to $350 in a bundle with the acclaimed Horizon Call Of The Mountain. This hefty discount could lead to another surge in sales, like last time.
• Pico 4 Ultra includes Pico Motion Trackers, three games, and a month of VRChat Plus in a bundle deal.
• In the U.S., some stores are offering the Quest 3S at $299.99 with a $75 gift card.
• HTC’s discounts include offers on Vive Focus Vision with a free DisplayPort adapter and bundled games; Vive XR Elite and Vive Pro 2 also have major price cuts.

Don’t miss out on these savings! Use the code ‘BFCM24’ on the Horizon Store to get up to 40% off select games. More details on all the VR discounts are available through the provided links.

Apple May Have Been Eyeing XR Since 2008

Although it’s known that Apple has been working on the Vision Pro for around seven years, recent discoveries suggest their interest dates even further back. A 2008 patent, rediscovered by a Mac World journalist, hints at Apple’s early exploration into VR headsets, describing tech features similar to today’s Vision Pro. While this doesn’t confirm direct development, it does showcase Apple’s longstanding curiosity about immersive tech, even before innovations like the Oculus Rift.

VRChat’s New Age Verification System

In collaboration with Persona, VRChat is implementing age verification for certain content, using government IDs and devices with cameras for checks. Though not mandatory across the platform, it enables access to age-verified instances. Users can also opt for a "Verified 18+" profile badge. This phased rollout is first for select groups, aiming to resolve issues before wider adoption. This move answers long-standing community requests for better age-appropriate content distinction, allowing adults and children to freely enjoy their respective environments without causing unintended exposure. It remains to be seen how many will opt for verification, but VRChat’s approach to keeping it optional for select areas is wise and considerate.

News Worth a Mention

Pimax’s New Subscription Model and Headset

Pimax is opening orders for its Crystal Super headset, boasting impressive specs like a near-retina display with a PPD of 57, dynamic foveated rendering, and an interchangeable optical system. However, the $1700 price tag—and its novel Prime subscription model—has sparked confusion. Buyers pay an upfront $999, followed by $32.99/month for 24 months, after which they fully own the headset. Critics question this approach and the unclear refund policy if the device is returned. Despite this, Pimax’s offering looks promising on paper, assuming you have the tech to support it.

XREAL’s Upcoming AR Glasses Announcement

XREAL teases new AR glasses dropping on December 4th. While details remain scarce, hints suggest a 6DOF augmented reality device, heightening anticipation for what’s on the horizon.

Virtual Reality Ventures for Insects – By Flinders University

Flinders University researchers have created an advanced VR rig for insects, forming a miniaturized CAVE setup to study their behavior in virtual scenarios. This research method could significantly broaden our understanding of animal behavior.

Experimenting with a Virtual Lollipop

Researchers at the University of Hong Kong are developing a virtual lollipop, utilizing hydrogels and iontophoresis to simulate various tastes, ranging from sugar to durian. This innovation expands multi-sensory VR experiences, despite their intriguing choice of flavors.

Tom Emrich’s Book on Augmented Reality for Business

AR expert Tom Emrich releases his new book, "The Next Dimension," focusing on how AR can boost business growth. Highlighting insights from innovative brands, it’s a must-read for entrepreneurs interested in emerging tech landscapes.

Halo in VR Thanks to a New Mod

The Halo: Combat Evolved campaign is now playable in PC VR, complete with motion controls, thanks to a mod available on GitHub. Enthusiastic community responses hint at a successful and enjoyable adaptation of the classic game.

Recent Content Highlights

• Home Sports, a mixed reality multi-sports game, is coming to the Meta Horizon Store on December 11 for $20.
• Premier League Player, by Rezzil, launches on December 3 on Meta Quest.
• Trivia Crack World challenges your knowledge on Quest for $10, and Spatial Web Shooter offers a Spider-Man-esque VR experience on Vision Pro.

Check out more about these releases through the relevant links.

Quick Reviews

Trombone Champ: Unflattened impressively brings its flat-screen version’s gameplay to VR, offering hours of entertainment.

Additional Updates

• Zero V2: Miroslav Kotalík showcases the second iteration of his open AR glasses.
• ANNAPRO A2 strap: Enhances the Apple Vision Pro’s comfort.
• PCVR market statistics show stagnation or very mild growth.

Partner and Friend News

GroKit Core, a low-code development library by 3lbXR, streamlines XR app creation in Unity by handling intricate coding tasks. Find out more about GroKit Core through their official website and tutorials.

XR Fun Corner

Check out these hilarious Black Friday VR deals and indulge in a compilation of XR fails for a good laugh!

A Call to Help

In light of continued conflict, I’m asking for compassion towards those affected. Please consider supporting the Red Cross to assist with the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. Here’s where you can contribute:

[Support The Red Cross in Ukraine]

Huge thanks to all my Patreon supporters who help keep this blog running! Your continued backing is truly appreciated.

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