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Trying VR Bungee Jumping and the Future of Augmented Reality
CNETยท2025-06-14 12:00

AR/XR Technology & Market Trends - The AR/XR industry is experiencing rapid change with AI integration and evolving form factors like meta bands and XR glasses [2] - Snap is developing AR glasses for release next year, while Google's Android XR platform, incorporating Gemini AI, will debut with AI glasses through Warby Parker before expanding to full AR glasses [3] - Peripherals like rings and watches are being developed to enhance AR glass functionality, enabling hand gesture tracking and control even when hands are out of sight [3][4] - AR glasses are evolving for outdoor use and multi-user experiences, as demonstrated by Niantic Spatial's location-based AR experience using Snap Spectacles [5] - Companies are exploring the overlap of physical and virtual experiences in entertainment, such as Meowolf's collaboration with Niantic Spatial to integrate AR into physical installations, expected in 2026 [9] - Light field displays are being developed for mission-critical applications like defense and driving, offering greater depth and potential for windshield integration [10][11] Product Development & Future Outlook - New Meta glasses are anticipated by the end of the year, and Google's AI glasses are expected in 2026 [13] - Companies like XRL are pushing boundaries with devices like the XRL 1 Pro glasses and eye camera, offering six degrees of freedom tracking and potential for AI integration [13][14] - Haptic technology, such as haptic gloves, is being developed to enhance tactile interaction in VR/AR experiences [16] - Free Aim is launching motorized VR walking shoes via a Kickstarter campaign, with shipping expected 6-8 months after the campaign ends in July [17][18] - The future of AR/XR remains uncertain, with various form factors and AI integration strategies being explored [19]