OpenComposite is an OpenXR implementation that enhances performance and compatibility by bypassing SteamVR for running existing OpenVR applications.
For those exploring alternatives to OpenComposite, choices encompass OpenVR, SteamVR, Oculus VR, Oculus Runtime, Windows Mixed Reality, Unity XR, Virtual Desktop, WMR, Quest 2, and Oculus.
OpenVR
An initiative by Valve, OpenVR is a Software Development Kit (SDK) and Application Programming Interface (API) designed to interface VR hardware and software. Originally released on 30th April 2015, the platform has proven useful in the development of SteamVR games and software applications.
OpenVR Top Features
- Supports SteamVR and other virtual reality headsets: Offers compatibility with a range of VR hardware including HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, and Windows MR.
- Developer-friendly features: Allows developers to fetch values, update tracking predictions, and support multiple tracked objects, models, and textures.
- Multiple modes and settings: Supports numerous modes and settings including k_pch_audio_OnRecordDevice_String, k_pch_Camera_EnableCameraForCollisionBounds_Bool, and others.
- Open Source: Part of the open source Virtual Reality project launched by Valve, allowing for collaborative improvements and developments.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Multiple Unity versions | Supported by numerous Unity versions: MRTK2 Unity 2018 2.5.0-2.7.0, MRTK2 Unity 2019 2.5.0-2.8.0, MRTK2 Unity 2020 2.5.2-2.6.0. |
| IVR Chaperone | Records tracking data and assists in VR system management via the IVRSystem::ResetSeatedZeroPose function. |
| OpenVR Class Reference | Includes constructors, fields, properties, methods as cited in Microsoft’s MRTK document. |
OpenVR Limitations
- Complex Development: Though powerful, the platform can be complex and intimidating for novice developers.
- Emphasis on SteamVR: As the default SDK for HTC Vive and a product built for multi-vendor support, OpenVR may favor hardware aligned with or developed by Valve.
OpenVR Pricing
As part of an open source project, OpenVR is accessible without any cost. This allows developers to use and modify the platform as they see fit.
OpenVR Use Cases
Use Case 1: SteamVR Game Development
OpenVR is ideal for developers aiming to create games or software for the SteamVR platform. Its extensive toolbox and deep integration with SteamVR make it a natural choice.
Use Case 2: Multi-Vendor VR Development
For projects aimed to be compatible with a variety of VR hardware, OpenVR provides multi-vendor support, covering popular devices like HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, and Windows MR.
Use Case 3: VR System Tracking
OpenVR’s IVRChaperone and IVRSystem functions support tracking management, proving to be particularly useful for projects that need intricate tracking data.
SteamVR
Boasting noble descent with ties to the illustrious Valve, SteamVR takes centerstage in the realm of virtual reality. Seamlessly connecting your VR headset to your PC, this runtime arms you with a well-rounded VR journey that dives into the depths of immersive experiences.
SteamVR Top Features
- Room Setup: With a defining hand, mold your play area to mirror your desires.
- Device Management: With the gracious finesse of a virtuoso, conduct updates, pair new devices, and tailor your audio settings.
- SteamVR Home: Your portal to the world of VR, offering the potential to catapult into apps, tend to friendships, and roam various environments.
- Overlay Applications: Engage these for added functionality, an intrepid approach to innovation.
- 360-degree VR: Nothing less than a 360-degree full room VR experience, for an immersive sojourn into your virtual world.
| CyberShoes: | Walk into your virtual universe, with natural movements replicated in VR. |
| Cyberchair: | Enjoy 360-degree freedom and stay grounded on the antistatic Cybercarpet. |
| Compatibility: | Suited to multiple headsets, including Valve Index, Meta Quest Pro, Oculus Rift&S, HTC Vive. |
SteamVR Downsides
- In mid-2022, some users found an unfortunate rift between SteamVR and Meta Quest 3 when operating with air link.
- Substantial system requirements, including specific OS, Processor, and GPU models which may prove difficult for those lacking in high-end tech.
SteamVR Use Cases
Use case 1
For enthusiasts of open-ended VR journeys, this is the platform to tether your headset for profoundly immersive experiences, whether it’s residential, corporate or entertainment settings.
Use case 2
Game developers seeking an expansive stage for their creativity will find delight in SteamVR’s supporting software for the creation of captivating environments.
Use case 3
If you seek to multiply the insightful dynamics within your education initiatives or training programs, welcome this technology with prospects of captivating learning encounters.
Oculus VR
Founded by Palmer Luckey, Oculus VR, now rebranded as Meta, has a powerful legacy in shaping the narrative of virtual reality through ground-breaking headsets, like the highly popular Meta Quest 2 and upcoming Meta Quest 3.
Oculus VR Top Features
- Innovative Design: Oculus Rift pioneered a high performance VR headset, which attracted a massive $2.5M Kickstarter funding and Facebook’s interest.
- Customizable and Affordable: The Quest 2 headset, introduced in 2020, offers power, affordability, and customization.
- Broader Experiences Beyond Gaming: Envisioned by Mark Zuckerberg to transcend the gaming world, with Meta investing $36B into general VR environments– the metaverse.
| Partnerships | Product Line |
|---|---|
| Formed a critical partnership with Samsung, culminating in Gear VR (2015). | Besides Oculus VR, the company released Rift DK1, DK2, Gear VR (in collaboration with Samsung), Oculus Go, Rift S, Quest, and the Meta Quest 2. |
| Anticipation is high for the upcoming Meta Quest 3. |
Oculus VR Downsides
- Despite significant investment, Meta’s Reality Labs division posted a loss of $13.7B in 2020.
- It faces stiff competition from the prospective Apple Vision Pro mixed-reality headset.
Oculus VR Use Cases
Use Case 1: Gaming
With its robust performance and innovative design, Oculus VR set a new benchmark in immersive gaming experiences.
Use Case 2: Metaverse
Meta’s significant investment into creating a VR environment enables users to experience a broader spectrum of activities beyond gaming.
Use Case 3: Commercial Applications
With unique capabilities embedded in their products, Oculus VR headsets offer potential for various commercial applications, enhancing virtual tours, virtual meetings, or virtual training scenarios.
Oculus Runtime
Stepping into the VR realm with a standard-bearer approach, Oculus Runtime is Oculus’s pivotal move from proprietary developer APIs to OpenXR. Aimed at streamlining VR/AR application development, OpenXR offers maximum interoperability with the support of various VR industry giants.
Oculus Runtime Top Features
- Alignment with OpenXR for the standardization of VR/AR application development.
- Phased out Oculus Mobile and Oculus PC SDK encapsulated under the robust and adaptive framework of OpenXR.
- Ongoing support for older applications built with Oculus SDKs that will retain their functionality.
- Set to house all new Oculus applications to be crafted with OpenXR, commencing August 2022.
- Backed by compelling VR hardware like the Oculus Rift, a pioneering VR headset series offering a realistic experience at an affordable price.
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| OpenXR Adoption | Interoperability and industry-wide standardization |
| Legacy Apps Support | Maintaining legacy applications’ integrity |
| Oculus Rift | Realistic and affordable VR hardware |
Oculus Runtime Limitations
- Unity’s OpenXR support, which is currently experimental, with full support only anticipated by 2022.
- The motion sickness reported by users as a general complaint.
- The discontinuation of popular Oculus Rift models like the Oculus Rift S.
Oculus Runtime Use Cases
Use case 1 – Virtual Gaming
Designed with gaming at its core, Oculus Runtime provides an immersive gaming experience, with social VR experiences leading in popularity.
Use case 2 – Professional Visualisation
Architecture firms, automotive giants like Audi, and the military use Oculus Runtime for a myriad of purposes, from design visualization to configuration and situational awareness.
Use case 3 – Educational Tool
Schools and universities are employing Oculus Runtime as an aid to enhance learning potential in a virtual environment.
Windows Mixed Reality
Cutting through the cutting-edge landscape of computing technology, Windows Mixed Reality (MR) offers the next evolution in user experiences, positioning the blend of physical and digital worlds into mainstream accessibility.
Top Features of Windows Mixed Reality
- Holographic representations: Creating immersive experiences by adding holographic depictions of people and 3D models into the real world.
- Augmented and Virtual Realities: With the virtuality continuum, shift seamlessly between augmented and virtual realities, enhancing user engagement.
- Advanced Interaction: Utilizing advancements in computer vision, graphical processing, display technologies, and input systems, it provides a holistic user interface for natural and intuitive human-computer-environment interactions.
| Spatial Mapping | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Goes beyond standard displays, offering hand-tracking, eye-tracking, spatial sound, and collaboration on 3D assets to create MR spaces. | Windows Mixed Reality is compatible with regular laptops and PCs, reducing the need for new, high-end hardware. |
| Inside-Out Tracking | Affordable Devices |
| Brings greater virtuality to users with inside-out tracking technology, expanding the range of possible VR experiences. | Accessible from several manufacturers such as Acer, HP, Asus, Dell, Lenovo, and Samsung, facilitating user choice based on individual product specifications. |
Windows Mixed Reality Disadvantages
- Requires a learning curve, especially for users less familiar with advanced technology interfaces.
- The virtuality continuum may cause occasional transitions between augmented and virtual realities to be somewhat disorienting.
Windows Mixed Reality Use Cases
Use Case 1: Education
Windows Mixed Reality provides an opportunity to revolutionize education. With holographic representations and 3D models, learning experiences become interactive, engaging, and real, breaking away from static and screen-bound pedagogical tools.
Use Case 2: Business
The immersive capabilities of Windows Mixed Reality transform business practices. It facilitates virtual meetings, detailed product demonstrations, and collaborative project engagements, promoting productive and cost-effective operations.
Use Case 3: Gaming
In an industry driven by user experience, Windows Mixed Reality elevates gaming to new heights. Its seamless transitions between augmented and virtual realities, coupled with an interactive interface, offer a game-changing edge.
Unity XR
Enter the world of Unity XR – a cutting-edge application that breathes life into virtual, augmented, and mixed realities. Revolutionize your game/app development through rich Unity XR features. Fast-run, build and add GameObjects as you like. Sample codes available at Github repositories for a seamless implementation experience.
Unity XR Top Features
- Unified Plug-in Framework: Unity 2019.3 comes with this new feature, empowering you to integrate across platforms directly.
- XR Plugins and Toolkit: Enables device interfacing, which aids in fast XR interaction development. Installation facilitated via Project Settings > XR Plugin Management.
- Hardware Support: For headset and device makers, Unity XR SDK expands Unity’s capability to enabling hardware support.
| Unity XR Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Upskilling Courses: | Focus on individual learning objectives and career goals, such as AR, VR development, XR project management, and analyses of XR projects’ technical feasibility. |
| GitHub Examples: | Take cue from XR Interaction Toolkit example assets, behaviors showcased on Github. A Complete Set Up prefab demonstrates full user interaction with XRI. |
Unity XR Limitations
- Dependent on External Kits: Achieving AR interactions require AR Foundation.
- Learning Curve: Though upskilling courses are available, a new user may face a steep learning curve to fully leverage Unity XR.
Unity XR Pricing
Unity XR pricing is flexible and has a plan that caters to everyone’s needs. For the most accurate and updated pricing, please visit Unity XR’s official website.
Unity XR Use Cases
Use case 1: VR Game/App Developers
With Unity XR, developers can aid their VR game and app development process, streamline functionalities and enhance user interaction.
Use case 2: Hardware Manufacturers
Unity XR SDK supports device and headset manufacturers by offering extensive hardware support within Unity, broadening potential product capabilities.
Use case 3: Augmented Reality Enthusiasts
With AR Foundation, Unity XR offers enthusiasts the tools they need for adept AR interactions, including gestures, object placement, UI interactions, and annotations.
Virtual Desktop
Immersing users within a virtual workspace, Virtual Desktop enables seamless streaming of PC VR games and desktop applications on VR-ready PCs running Windows 10 or 11.
Virtual Desktop Top Features
- Wide Compatibility: Supports gaming via SteamVR and Oculus Rift. However, it’s essential to check specific game compatibility.
- Highly Functional: The tool aids in operating Microsoft Office, media players, and photo editing apps, and even offers browsing and viewing 360 photos and videos in a VR environment.
- Comprehensive PC Experience: Allows users to utilize all standard computer functionalities in a virtual environment. Browsing, game-play, movie-watch, and more are all available on a grand virtual screen.
- Optimized Streaming Quality: Provides secure streaming, microphone passthrough, high-quality application streaming, and gamepad emulation facilities.
| Benefits | Use Case |
|---|---|
| VR Multi-monitor setup | One can set multiple virtual monitors within VR, providing unlimited screen space. Ideal for multitasking and power users. |
| Wireless Support | Connects wirelessly to computers over Wi-Fi. Supports Bluetooth mice, keyboards, and gamepads for super input convenience. |
| Potential for Productivity | Enhances productivity in work applications by providing a VR platform to interact with desktop software. |
Virtual Desktop Limitations
- Mac Exclusion: Mac is not supported for gaming functionality.
- Antivirus Compatibility: Various antivirus software like Avast, AVG, McAfee, Norton, may require tweaking to allow Virtual Desktop Streamer to function optimally.
- Software Limitations: Virtual Desktop cannot operate concurrently with VPN software for compatibility issues.
Virtual Desktop Pricing
Virtual Desktop necessitates purchase across several platforms (Oculus Store, Itch.io, Patreon), emphasizing that no ‘free-to-play’ option is currently available. However, refunds are possible through Steam.
Virtual Desktop Use Cases
Use Case 1: Gamers
Dedicated gamers can play their favorite PC VR games in a new dimension with Virtual Desktop.
Use Case 2: Professionals
Remote workers and professionals who require versatile and substantial screen space will find Virtual Desktop highly productive.
Use Case 3: Media Enthusiasts
Media enthusiasts can enjoy a theater-like experience while watching 3D SBS movies or streaming content via services like Netflix, Hulu.
WMR
When it comes to virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) hybrid solutions, WMR (Windows Mixed Reality), Microsoft’s VR/AR standard, stands as a unique player on the field. Launched in October 2017, this platform leverages integrated sensors and is compatible with a broad range of hardware devices, making it a versatile option for different user requirements.
WMR Top Features
- Employs 2 VR Screens in a Head Mounted Display (HMD) providing immersive VR experience.
- Interoperability with SteamVR, offering extended content offering.
- Supports a virtual environment to run a desktop PC and Microsoft Edge for web navigation.
- A broad range of headset partners including Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung ensuring versatility.
- And most significantly, the capability of motion tracking without traditional external sensors, making setup simpler.
| Manufacturer | Unique Offering |
|---|---|
| Acer | Introduced the first-to-market WMR headset, offering resolution 1440×1440 per eye, with a bundled package includes controllers. |
| HP | Offers a unique ‘Tron-like’ headset design bundled with motion controllers. |
| Samsung | Provides a version with an AMOLED display, and a headset equipped with AKG headphones for a full-fledged audio-visual experience. |
WMR Limitations
- Unavailability on major consoles, which could potentially limit its reach.
- Lower Field Of Vision (FOV) tracking, creating synchronization issues with the hand-controllers.
- Challenges providing a comfortable “hands-free” experience due to certain design elements of the Mixed Reality headsets.
WMR Pricing
With a starting price of $299 for headsets, WMR offers a slightly more accessible entry point into the mixed reality landscape compared to its competitors.
WMR Use Cases
Use case 1 – VR Gaming
WMR creates an immersive VR gaming experience, allowing users to step directly into the gaming environment and interact at a level not possible with traditional gaming systems.
Use case 2 – Professional Applications
WMR powers professional applications through Mixed Reality on SharePoint, allowing businesses to create interactive experiences for their teams.
Use case 3 – First-time VR Users
Designed specifically with first-time users in mind, WMR offers an accessible and easy-to-use platform for those making their initial foray into the world of mixed reality.
Quest 2
An innovative product of the Reality Labs division of Meta Platforms, the Quest 2 is a VR headset that brings a robust and immersive virtual reality experience to users. Initially known as Oculus Quest 2, it was renamed to Meta Quest 2 under the Meta transition in 2022. With its Android-based Quest system software and Qualcomm SnapDragon XR2 processor, this lightweight device is a force to reckon within the VR realm.
Quest 2 Top Features
- Display: Upgraded to 1,920-by-1,832-pixel resolution from 1600 X 1440 pixels, offering a more refined viewing experience.
- Refresh Rate: Increased from 72Hz to 120Hz, ensuring smoother visuals for intense gameplay and experiences.
- Connectivity: Equipped with USB-C, Bluetooth 5, and Wi-Fi 6, the Quest 2 ensures seamless interactions in the virtual world.
- Operability: Can function as a standalone device or synchronize with Oculus Rift-compatible VR software on a desktop computer.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Input | 6DOF inside-out tracking through four in-built cameras and two controllers. |
| Online Services | Access to Quest Store for an array of VR games and experiences. |
| Storage | 64 GB (discontinued), 128 GB, 256 GB versions available. |
Quest 2 Limitations
- Short battery life, with only 2-3 hours of usage between charges.
- Original 64GB storage is discontinued with no room for expansion.
- The Quest 2 requires a Meta account for users aged 10+.
Quest 2 Pricing
The Meta Quest 2 VR headset is reasonably priced at $299 for the 64 GB version, and $399 for the 256 GB version. Despite its high-quality feature-set, the device remains accessible for a broad range of users.
Quest 2 Use Cases
Use case 1 – Gaming
With its high refresh rate and powerful processor, Quest 2 offers an unrivalled gaming experience for all VR enthusiasts. The access to Quest Store provides a vast number of games to choose from.
Use case 2 – Education
Quest 2 provides a rich resource for immersive, interactive learning experiences in fields such as anatomy, history, and astronomy. It turns lessons into memorable adventures.
Use case 3 – Business
For companies looking to conduct virtual meetings or trainings, Quest 2 proves to be an efficient and engaging tool. Its superior connectivity features allow for seamless virtual interactions.
Oculus
Oculus, renowned for its trailblazing VR headset line, Oculus Rift, has helped revolutionize the VR industry. The company was founded by Palmer Luckey with a vision to provide accessible and high-quality VR experiences. The Oculus legacy began with the Oculus Rift DK1 in 2013, and over the years, it incorporated innovative features, setting new standards in the VR space.
Oculus Top Features
- Realistic VR experience: Oculus Rift offered the first realistic VR experience at a reasonable price.
- Software compatibility: The software library of Oculus Rift is compatible with its successor, Oculus Quest.
- Reduced screen door effect: This feature makes individual pixels less noticeable, enhancing the visual experience.
- Outstanding field of view: Oculus Rift DK1 featured a remarkable field of view – more than 90 degrees horizontal, doubling the FOV of previous VR devices.
- Advanced head orientation tracking: Oculus implements accelerometers, gyros, and magnetometers for accurate head orientation tracking without drift.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| 1080p LCD Panel | Later prototypes included a 1080p LCD panel for better clarity and reduced screen door effect. |
| Crystal Cove | A prototype presented at the Consumer Electronics Show in 2014, providing a low-persistence of vision. |
| Oculus Rift CV1 | Launched in 2016, this was the public’s first taste of Oculus’s enhanced VR tech. |
Oculus Limitations
- The Oculus Rift line was discontinued in 2021.
- The resolution of the first Oculus Rift headset was effectively 640×800 per eye, which was a limitation in the early phase.
Oculus Use Cases
Use case 1: Gaming
Oculus serves as an exquisite tool for the gaming industry, offering near-real VR gaming experiences with its range of headsets.
Use case 2: Training Simulations
Oculus’ VR tech provides an immersive environment for conduct of training simulations in various fields like medicine, aviation, and defense.
Use case 3: Virtual Tours
Oculus enables virtual tours of real estate properties, tourist attractions, and museums, providing a unique customer experience.
