Latest VR/AR News in the First Half of 2025
The first half of 2025 has seen significant developments in the VR and AR industries. Here are seven major news topics you should know to stay up to date with the market.
Meta and Xbox Announce Quest 3S Xbox Edition
Meta has partnered with Microsoft to launch the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition in the U.S.
This special model features a 128GB Quest 3S in Xbox colors, bundled with Touch Plus controllers, an Xbox Wireless Controller, and three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
The headset boots directly into the Xbox app, enabling players to enjoy Xbox cloud titles like Forza in an immersive, big-screen VR-like experience. This collaboration is attracting attention as a next-generation gaming solution.
Prime Day Expected to Bring Major Discounts on VR Devices
During Amazon Prime Day starting July 7, major VR headsets including the Meta Quest 3/3S, PS VR2, and Pico 4 Ultra are expected to see discounts of up to 30%.
Rumors also suggest free VR game offers and bundle deals on accessories like battery straps and charging docks.
It could be the perfect opportunity for first-time buyers or those looking to upgrade their VR gear.
Meta’s Next VR Headset “Loma” Negotiating Exclusive Content with Hollywood
Reports suggest Meta’s upcoming VR headset, codenamed “Loma,” is in negotiations for exclusive content deals with Disney, A24, and James Cameron’s Lightstorm Entertainment.
The device is rumored to be priced under $1,000, with a glasses-like design and high-resolution passthrough MR features.
If successful, major franchises like Star Wars could become immersive launch experiences.
Snap to Release New AR Glasses “Specs” in 2026
Snap has officially announced plans to release its new lightweight, slim AR glasses, Specs, in 2026.
These glasses will target a lower price point than the Apple Vision Pro and are expected to include AI-powered spatial recognition and real-time subtitles.
Integration with Snap Lens+ will provide innovative AR experiences for everyday life.
AWE 2025 Showcases Cutting-Edge XR Technologies
At AWE 2025, Qualcomm unveiled an AR-dedicated SoC with integrated AI processing, setting a new performance benchmark for XR devices.
Viture demonstrated its next-generation AR glasses compatible with the Nintendo Switch, expanding possibilities in mobile XR gaming.
Samsung introduced ultra-bright OLEDoS panels, greatly enhancing outdoor visibility for AR headsets. These announcements highlight the rapid evolution of XR technology.
Apple Releases Major Vision Pro Update
In June 2025, Apple rolled out its first major software update for Vision Pro.
The update enhances spatial video recording and expands Mac integration features, enabling users to arrange multiple apps in 3D for a more immersive workspace.
As corporate adoption increases, expectations for new ways of working with Vision Pro are rising.
Google Accelerates Development of AR/VR OS “Project Iris”
Insiders revealed that Google is speeding up the development of its integrated AR/VR OS, Project Iris, in the first half of 2025.
Designed to work alongside Android, it will offer a unique UI for intuitive spatial interaction.
There’s growing speculation that Google may release AR devices for its Pixel series as early as 2026, positioning itself as a potential third major platform after Meta and Apple.
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