Spatial Computing Business Newsletter, February 2025

🚀 Latest Real-world Spatial Applications 

• February 13, 2025: Laura Mercier launches an immersive shopping app for Apple Vision Pro, developed in partnership with developer Obsess. Users can explore products in interactive 3D environments, including digital representations of the brand's New York boutique and a Paris atelier. Read more

• February 13, 2025: Jane Fonda collaborates with Meta Quest's Supernatural to release virtual reality fitness classes that pay homage to her classic '80s workout videos. The classes feature outfits, moves, and studio settings reminiscent of the original programs, bridging the past and future of fitness. Read more

• February 11, 2025: The NBA's updated its VisionOS app and introduced 'Tabletop,' a diorama-scale virtual representation of live games. This feature complements the 2D livestream, offering an immersive viewing experience. Read more

• February 6, 2025: Kendrick Lamar's award-winning track "HUMBLE." is now featured in the Synth Riders Experience on Apple Vision Pro. This immersive journey transports users through dynamic environments inspired by the song's music video, offering a unique blend of music and mixed reality. Read more

• January 31, 2025: Apple releases "Man Vs. Beast," a 10-minute immersive film for Vision Pro users. The short film provides an inside look into the world of professional bull riding, offering viewers a firsthand experience of the rodeo's intensity.

• January 17, 2025: MoviePass unveils "The MoviePass Screening Room," a spatial app for Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest. This platform allows users to watch high-definition movie trailers in an immersive environment. Read more

• January 16, 2025: Planner 5D, a popular interior design app, launches its companion app for Apple Vision Pro. The application enables users to step into their design projects, visualizing and modifying spaces in a fully immersive 3D environment. Read more

🛠️ Operating System Announcements

visionOS 2.4 Beta Release

On February 15, 2025, Bloomberg published an article about Apple’s upcoming visionOS 2.4 update, introducing significant enhancements to the Vision Pro headset:

• Apple Intelligence Integration: Incorporates AI features such as Writing Tools, Genmojis, and the Image Playground app, enhancing on-device AI processing.

• Spatial Content App: A new application for viewing 3D images and panoramas, enriching the spatial media experience.

• Guest User Mode Update: Simplifies device sharing by allowing setup control via an iPhone, enabling owners to manage guest access efficiently.

Developers can access the beta version starting this week, with a public release anticipated in April.

iOS 19 Camera Interface Redesign (kinda related)

On January 20, 2025, reports emerged about a significant redesign of the iOS 19 camera application:

• visionOS-Inspired Design: The new interface features translucent buttons and rounded icons, reflecting the aesthetics of visionOS.

This update aims to provide a more immersive and modern user experience within the camera app.

🌎 Community Corner

Developer Trends in Spatial Computing

Recent surveys indicate a shift in spatial computing development preferences:

• Meta Quest Dominance: The 2025 Game Developers Conference (GDC) survey reveals that 59% of VR/AR developers are creating content for Meta Quest, maintaining its lead in the industry.

• Apple visionOS Gains Traction: The same GDC report shows that 26% of developers are now focusing on Apple's visionOS, surpassing PlayStation VR2, which stands at 25%. This marks a notable shift in developer interest towards Apple's platform.

Meridian Meetups Expands Globally

Meridian Meetups, a community-driven initiative, is making strides in connecting mobile developersa and designers with the spatial computing community:

• Ghana Chapter: Hosts events to bridge mobile developers with spatial computing enthusiasts, fostering collaboration and innovation.

• Barcelona Launch: A new chapter is set to open during the Mobile World Congress, aiming to expand the community's reach and impact.

Google's Strategic Acquisition

In a significant move, Google has acquired a portion of HTC Vive's engineering team for $250 million:

• Enhancing Android XR: This acquisition aims to accelerate the development of Google's Android XR platform, leveraging the expertise of HTC's seasoned professionals.

🛠️ Hardware News & Rumors

Recent reports shed light on Meta's ambitious plans for wearable technology and a premium headset. Meta is reportedly developing "Supernova 2," smart glasses in collaboration with Oakley, aimed at athletes. These glasses are based on Oakley's Sphaera model and feature a center-mounted camera, catering to cyclists and sports enthusiasts. The company is also reportedly working on a high-end model that could serve as a successor to the Quest Pro mixed-reality headset, alongside the development of Quest 4.

MKBHD’s first look at Project Moohan– Samsung and Google's Collaborative Effort. “A mixed-reality headset poised to compete with Apple's Vision Pro.” Watch.

Google's Strategic Acquisition. In a significant move, Google has acquired a portion of HTC Vive's engineering team for $250 million

Android XR to Offer Passthrough Camera Access. Google has confirmed that its upcoming Android XR platform will grant developers access to passthrough camera views:

Apple continues to promote its Vision Pro headset with announcement of dedicated retail Ssaces: The newest Apple Store in Miami features a dedicated side room for Vision Pro demos and purchases, indicating Apple's commitment to providing immersive customer experiences.

🚀 Keep Innovating With Us

As the field of spatial computing continues to evolve, we're eager to connect with teams pushing its boundaries. Whether you're developing exploratory concepts or fully realized applications, we invite you to share your latest projects with us. Our goal is to feature and highlight work that propels the industry forward, fostering understanding and innovation within this dynamic landscape.

We'll be attending the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona from March 3rd to 6th, 2025. If you're planning to be there, we'd love to connect for events and meetups. Feel free to reach out to coordinate.

Let's collaborate to shape the future of spatial computing together.