This Week in XR (March 18, 2025): Niantic Offloads Pokemon Go, Meta Launches Passthrough APIs, and More!

What a whirlwind of a week it’s been in the XR world! I’ve been neck-deep in exciting projects, but in the best way possible. And just when I thought my schedule couldn’t get any busier, Meta rolled out camera access for the Quest, and I just couldn’t resist diving into it. So, let’s explore some of the most fascinating XR news from this week. Stick around till the end because there’s a giveaway you won’t want to miss!

Top Stories This Week

Niantic Sells Gaming Division to Scopely

Niantic has made waves by selling its entire gaming division, including the blockbuster Pokémon Go, to Scopely for an impressive $3.85 billion. Now under Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Pokémon Go joins a new empire. Meanwhile, Niantic is pivoting to focus on geospatial technology with a new venture, Niantic Spatial, backed by $250 million. While the sale is a bold step, losing their cash cow Pokémon Go to focus on unproven tech is risky. If AR technology fails to monetize as swiftly as hoped, Niantic might find itself on shaky ground. Still, I commend John Hanke for taking such a gutsy leap into the future of XR.

Meta Opens Passthrough APIs for Quest 3/3S

Meta has indeed added a new dimension by releasing its Passthrough APIs, giving developers access to camera frames on Quest devices. This means MR apps can now gain insights into the user’s environment, reacting dynamically thanks to AI and machine learning. The APIs will require user permission, using systems familiar to developers from Android and Unity. While the feature is experimental and restricted from the Horizon Store, it’s expected to become mainstream in the coming months. This is a big step toward creating more interactive and immersive experiences.

VR Games Showcase March 2025

The latest VR Games Showcase, curated by Jamie Feltham, was packed with cool announcements. Although no single reveal stunned audiences, there were lots of exciting updates:

• "Stay: Forever Home" launches on Quest in April, offering adventures with a virtual canine friend.
• A new trailer for "Hitman: World of Assassination" on PSVR 2 looks promising as it approaches its March 27th release.
• The sci-fi horror game "Memoreum" lands on Quest in September, and "Slender: The Arrival VR" will hit multiple platforms this spring.
• Flat2VR Studios is expanding its library with four new titles adapted from traditional games.

For more detailed insights, follow the links to all VR Games Showcase developments.

Ultraleap Sold for Parts

A sobering piece of news arrives as Ultraleap, renowned for its expertise in haptics and hand tracking, has been dismantled. Pieces of the company have been sold to Roli and US IP financing company SIM IP, resulting in significant layoffs. While pioneers in their field, missing out on being acquired by a major headset manufacturer played a part in Ultraleap’s decline.

Samsung’s Project Moohan Headset to Feature Controllers

Samsung’s upcoming Project Moohan headset will reportedly include its own motion controllers, a decision that contrasts with Apple’s hand-tracking focus. This strategic move facilitates easier porting of applications from devices like the Meta Quest. Developers should welcome this addition, as it broadens compatibility and eases game transitions between platforms.

Meta Faces Challenges with Horizon Worlds

According to New World Notes, Meta’s Horizon Worlds is struggling, exacerbated by a lack of enthusiasm among developers, many of whom prefer web-based environments. The report suggests that its developers show minimal interest in virtual worlds, and some even fake their presence in Horizon Worlds. As such, this raises questions about the apps’ viability and the energy Meta invests in it.

Noteworthy Mentions

• Google & AdHawk Acquisition: Google reportedly plans to acquire AdHawk Microsystems for $115 million, aiming to integrate innovative eye-tracking tech that doesn’t use privacy-invasive cameras.

• Valve’s Wireless Dongle: Rumors hint at Valve’s new device to enhance wireless VR connectivity, particularly for the upcoming Deckard headset.

• Meta’s Micro Gesture Support: Meta has introduced microgesture detection in its SDK, enabling nuanced interactions within MR applications.

• Immersed’s Visor Delays: Amidst financial struggles, Immersed has delayed Visor headset production. Questions linger about the company’s future, risking skepticism among backers.

New Developments in VR Content

• Exciting Game Releases: New VR experiences like “BEATABLE” and “Path of Fury” hit the market, while Penguin Festival Simulator makes its debut on Quest.

• Arcade-based “RoboCop: Streets of Anarchy” and other thrilling titles are set to amuse VR enthusiasts.

• Sales and Discounts: Both Steam and the Horizon Store are offering significant discounts on VR titles. If you’re looking to expand your collection, now is an excellent time.

A Note on My XR Journey

As I conclude, I invite you to consider supporting humanitarian efforts in Ukraine by donating to the Red Cross. Additionally, I extend heartfelt thanks to my Patreon supporters whose contributions make this blog possible. And remember, I’ve got two free keys for the captivating Mythic Realms up for grabs. Act fast to claim yours or consider supporting this remarkable team of developers by purchasing a copy if you miss out.

For laughs and lighter moments in XR, check out some fun links shared towards the end of this post. Here’s to another thrilling week of exploring the endless possibilities in the XR universe!