Google and Pico Propel the OpenXR Standard as the Leading Industry Standard

Understanding the OpenXR Standard

OpenXR is an open standard crafted to improve compatibility across various XR software and headsets. With Google, one of the world’s largest tech innovators, backing this standard from its inception, many other prominent companies like Meta and Microsoft have also jumped on the bandwagon. Recently, companies such as ByteDance have expressed their support for the OpenXR standard, reinforcing its status as an industry staple. Despite this widespread enthusiasm, however, a notable outlier continues to exist in the market.

The Evolution of OpenXR

First introduced in 2017, OpenXR simplifies the development of XR applications, enabling them to operate seamlessly across diverse XR devices with minimal adjustments. This initiative has the backing of major industry players, including Meta, Microsoft, Valve, and HTC. Nevertheless, one prominent holdout persists – Apple.

Apple often opts for proprietary formats over general industry standards. Although this strategy can lead to groundbreaking innovations, it sometimes delays the adoption of broadly accepted standards.

Challenges Presented by Apple

Apple’s latest device, the Vision Pro, does not support OpenXR and does not include built-in functionality for motion-tracked controllers. This feature is crucial for most existing XR applications. If Apple were to incorporate the OpenXR standard, it would significantly ease the process for developers looking to adapt their XR content. However, the absence of motion-tracked controllers presents its own set of hurdles.

Currently, Apple remains a noteworthy exception in the landscape.

Google’s Investment in the OpenXR Standard

In contrast, Google has swiftly confirmed that its newly launched Android XR platform will fully support the OpenXR standard. This exciting development facilitates the transition for developers aiming to adapt their content created for headsets like Quest into the Android XR ecosystem.

Moreover, Google states that Android XR is already compatible with OpenXR version 1.1. The company has also introduced a range of vendor extensions. These extensions bring new features that enhance the potential of OpenXR on specific devices. Interestingly, some of these extensions could be embedded in future OpenXR versions.

Pico’s Contribution to OpenXR

Recently, Pico, the XR division of ByteDance, announced its runtime is now compliant with OpenXR 1.1 for the Pico 4 Ultra headset. Additionally, plans are underway to expand this compliance to the Pico 4 and Neo 3 headsets by mid-2025.

Pico is also sharing its vision for the future of OpenXR. The company recently introduced a framework aimed at standardizing how XR applications can run concurrently. This advancement enables users to interact with multiple XR applications in a unified environment. Pico is actively advocating for this framework within the OpenXR working group—the body tasked with directing the standard’s development.

Looking Ahead: The Future of OpenXR

With Google and Pico embracing the OpenXR standard, its significance in the industry is unmistakable. However, the prospect of Apple adopting OpenXR seems unlikely at the moment. Apple’s unique strategy may foster a fragmented ecosystem, yet unified support from other major XR market players bolsters the outlook for OpenXR.

Advantages of the OpenXR Standard

• Improved Compatibility: OpenXR empowers developers to create applications that can operate on various XR headsets without extensive revisions.
• Boosted Innovation: A unified standard allows developers to concentrate on creativity and new features instead of battling compatibility challenges.
• Increased Developer Efficiency: OpenXR streamlines the developmental process, leading to quicker deployment of XR applications across diverse platforms.
• Supportive Community: The ever-growing community surrounding OpenXR encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among industry contributors.