Apple has now unveiled the long-awaited XR headset, the Vision Pro.
The fact that it's not easy to bring a VR/AR headset to market is shown by failed attempts in this area by other major tech corporations. Let's take a look at failed products in the AR/VR sector.
Google Glass: Innovative Technology with Privacy Concerns and a High Price
Google Glass, which was first unveiled in 2013, was an innovative pair of augmented reality glasses designed to function as a kind of „wearable computer.“ Despite promising features and widespread interest, Google Glass fell short of expectations. The battery life was too short, and there was a lack of useful apps for the device. Privacy concerns, public criticism, and a high price were key factors in its failure.
Microsoft HoloLens: Potential in Industry and Design, but Limited Adoption
The Microsoft HoloLens, a mixed-reality headset, was introduced in 2016 and had the potential to revolutionize use cases in gaming, education, design, and industry. However, the HoloLens fell short of expectations due to its high price, limited availability, and technical limitations such as a narrow field of view and relatively heavy weight.
Even the successor, the HoloLens 2, failed to gain widespread popularity despite many improvements in ergonomics and its integration into the Windows 11 ecosystem.
Google Daydream: Accessible VR Experiences, But Lacking Compatibility and Support
Google Daydream, introduced in 2016, was intended to make VR experiences more accessible to the masses. Despite positive reviews and a solid selection of content, Daydream did not achieve the desired success. Limited compatibility with specific smartphones and a lack of third-party support were crucial reasons for Daydream's failure. Furthermore, Daydream, which strongly resembled the design of Samsung Gear VR, came to market too late. Gear VR already had significantly more software available, and Daydream could not bring clear advantages to the market compared to the already more successful Samsung system.
The PlayStation VR 2
Although the PS VR was a bestseller, it looks like Sony isn’t having much luck on the market with the PS VR2 either. Still, the hardware itself isn’t the problem. The PS VR2 is a fantastic VR headset and offers an incredible amount of cutting-edge technology at a reasonable price. However, that price is likely too high for some gamers. At €500, it’s more expensive than both PS5 models, and you need a PS5 to run it—unlike standalone Meta headsets, which offer a complete gaming platform for as little as €300. Perhaps Sony can still convince VR gamers to buy it with price cuts and land a hit after all.
Insights and Outlook for the Future of VR Headsets
Experiences with Google Glass, Microsoft HoloLens, and Google Daydream make it clear that successful VR headsets must do more than just impress with their technology. Factors such as price, design, user-friendliness, and the availability of compelling content are crucial. Privacy and social acceptance also play an important role.
Although these attempts can be considered failures, they have nonetheless provided valuable insights for the future development of VR headsets. The technology continues to evolve, and it remains to be seen what innovations the industry will produce in the future.
We also shouldn't forget that there have been successful launches of VR products. With the Oculus Quest, Meta has created a fairly successful VR platform for games. Not least, Meta is successful because there is an ever-growing selection of software for this device and the headsets are offered at fairly affordable prices.
