CES 2024 Highlights Shift in AR/VR Terminology and Industrial Applications

I plan to look at the Consumer Electronics Show in more detail after the show closes later this week, yet it’s apparent that one trend is already bubbling to the service – AR and VR.

Although Apple doesn’t want to call it that, Apple is imposing strict requirements on how developers describe their Vision Pro apps, prohibiting using acronyms like AR, VR, MR, and XR. Instead, apps should be referred to as “spatial computing.” This is despite Apple using the term AR for iPhone and iPad experiences built with ARKit. It is unclear how strongly Apple will enforce these rules and whether they apply to existing titles.

And they aren’t going to be the only game in town.  

Sony has unveiled a high-end XR headset at CES 2024 that rivals Apple Vision Pro in capabilities and design. The Sony-Siemens headset features 4K OLED microdisplays, the Qualcomm XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, wearable controllers, and a sleek design. While aimed at professionals, engineers, product designers, and industrial use, the headset’s flip-up facial interface and wearable controllers are features that Apple could learn from.

ASUS has introduced the AirVision M1, a wearable display that can generate multiple virtual screens for multitasking. It features an FHD Micro OLED display, adjustable aspect ratios, and built-in noise-canceling microphones and speakers. To function, the device must be connected to a PC or phone via USB-C. Pricing and availability details have yet to be disclosed.

Xreal has introduced the Air 2 Ultra AR glasses, which are priced at $699. These glasses offer full positional tracking and dual 3D cameras for hand tracking, allowing developers to create immersive AR apps. The Air 2 Ultra is primarily aimed at developers but will be available for purchase through Xreal’s website and will ship to several countries. This isn’t their first. Xreal’s announcement comes after shipping 350,000 pairs of AR glasses and expanding the availability of the Air 2 in 2024.

Apple is carving out a lane to be different – and an acronym-free lane is pretty savvy.   

I’m noting the industrial uses of some of these products, as well as the focus on providing additional workspace.   There’s enough activity in the spatial computing space to take note.  I’m keeping a skeptical eye, and will note that some of the designs are a lot less industrial or offputting.     Let’s watch to see how adoption plays out.