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Business

GeForce Now adds GOG syncing and 90fps game streaming in VR headsets

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

NVIDIA GeForce Now: The Future of Cloud Gaming is Sharper, Smoother and More Accessible

NVIDIA’s GeForce Now continues to push the boundaries of cloud gaming, recently unveiling a series of updates at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) that promise a more immersive and convenient experience for players. These enhancements, particularly for virtual reality and account integration, signal a growing trend towards seamless, accessible gaming across devices.

VR Gaming Gets a Performance Boost

Virtual reality gaming on GeForce Now is about to acquire a significant upgrade. Starting March 19th, GeForce Now Ultimate members will experience streaming at 90 frames per second (fps), a leap from the previous 60 fps. This improvement is designed to enhance smoothness, responsiveness, and overall realism, particularly on headsets like the Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest. The increased frame rate addresses a key challenge in cloud gaming – latency – making VR experiences experience more immediate and less disconnected.

Pro Tip: A higher frame rate isn’t just about visual fidelity. It directly impacts the reduction of motion sickness in VR, making longer play sessions more comfortable.

Streamlining Access with Expanded Account Linking

NVIDIA is simplifying access to your existing game libraries by expanding account linking options. In addition to existing integrations, GeForce Now will soon support GOG accounts, alongside Gaijin single-sign-on. This means players can easily access and play games they’ve already purchased from these platforms without needing to repurchase them. The addition of in-app labels will clearly indicate which games are available through your connected subscriptions, eliminating confusion and streamlining the game selection process.

Novel Games Joining the GeForce Now Roster

GeForce Now is consistently adding new titles to its cloud gaming library. Recent additions include Xbox titles like Brutal Legend and Contrast, as well as anticipated releases such as Remedy’s Control Resonant and Samson: A Tyndalston Story. This continuous expansion of the game catalog is crucial for attracting and retaining subscribers, offering a diverse range of gaming experiences.

The Rise of RTX Technology in the Cloud

NVIDIA’s commitment to cutting-edge graphics technology extends to GeForce Now. The introduction of servers powered by GeForce RTX 5080 GPUs has been described as a game-changer, delivering visual quality that is virtually indistinguishable from a high-end gaming PC. This demonstrates NVIDIA’s strategy of bringing premium gaming experiences to a wider audience through cloud technology.

What Does This Imply for the Future of Gaming?

These updates highlight several key trends shaping the future of gaming:

  • Accessibility: Cloud gaming removes the barrier to entry for players who don’t have access to expensive gaming hardware.
  • Cross-Platform Play: Account linking and expanded device support enable seamless gaming experiences across multiple platforms.
  • Performance and Fidelity: Investments in powerful GPUs and technologies like DLSS 4.5 are pushing the boundaries of visual quality and performance in the cloud.
  • Subscription Models: Cloud gaming services are increasingly adopting subscription-based models, offering players access to a vast library of games for a monthly fee.

FAQ

Q: What is GeForce Now?
A: GeForce Now is a cloud gaming service that allows you to stream games to your devices without needing to download or install them.

Q: What devices are compatible with GeForce Now?
A: GeForce Now is available on Windows and Mac PCs, NVIDIA’s Shield, Android TV, smartphones, Fire TV sticks, and many other devices.

Q: What is the difference between GeForce Now membership tiers?
A: GeForce Now offers different membership tiers with varying levels of performance, features, and access to RTX GPUs.

Q: Does GeForce Now require a fast internet connection?
A: Yes, a stable and fast internet connection is essential for a smooth cloud gaming experience.

Did you know? NVIDIA’s GeForce Now utilizes RTX technology to enhance image quality and performance, even in the cloud.

Ready to experience the future of gaming? Explore GeForce Now today and discover a world of gaming possibilities.

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Business

Nintendo’s Virtual Boy accessory lets you play VR Mario and Zelda on Switch 2

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Nintendo’s Virtual Boy Returns: A Glimpse into the Future of Retro VR

Nintendo is bringing back a piece of gaming history – and a rather eccentric one at that. The Virtual Boy, the company’s 1995 foray into virtual reality, is being resurrected as an accessory for both the Nintendo Switch and the forthcoming Switch 2. This isn’t simply a nostalgia play; it’s a fascinating indicator of where Nintendo sees the future of immersive gaming, and how it plans to bridge the gap between retro appeal and modern technology.

VR on Switch: More Than Just a Gimmick?

The new Virtual Boy accessory allows players to experience VR versions of four existing Switch titles: Super Mario Odyssey, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. These aren’t newly developed VR builds, but rather utilize the VR functionality originally created for the Nintendo Labo VR set. What we have is particularly significant for Switch 2 owners, as Labo creations are generally incompatible with the new console.

Cardboard vs. Hardware: Choosing Your VR Experience

Nintendo offers two versions of the Virtual Boy accessory: a traditional hardware unit resembling the original console, and a more affordable cardboard version priced at $25. Interestingly, the cardboard headset is actually the preferred option for these games. The hardware version, designed to sit on a stand, restricts head movement, while the cardboard headset offers greater freedom. The hardware unit does include red filters to mimic the original Virtual Boy’s aesthetic, but these can be removed.

The hardware version retains value for those interested in playing actual Virtual Boy games, as they were designed for a static viewing experience. Still, the trade-off between portability and authenticity is a key consideration for consumers.

The Legacy of the Virtual Boy: A Pioneering Failure

Launched in 1995, the original Virtual Boy was a bold, if ultimately unsuccessful, attempt to bring virtual reality to the masses. It was a technologically ambitious device, being one of the first consumer-level VR headsets. However, its limitations – a monochromatic red display, lack of head tracking, and cumbersome design – led to its swift discontinuation after just 14 games were released in the US.

What Which means for the Future of VR Gaming

Nintendo’s revival of the Virtual Boy isn’t about recreating the past, but about recontextualizing it. It demonstrates a willingness to experiment with VR technology, even in a limited capacity. The fact that Breath of the Wild’s VR mode is still available on the Switch 2 suggests Nintendo sees potential in integrating VR experiences into its flagship titles.

This move also taps into the growing trend of retro gaming and the desire for unique, immersive experiences. While the Virtual Boy accessory isn’t a high-end VR solution, it offers a novel way to revisit beloved games and experience them in a new light.

FAQ

What games are compatible with the Virtual Boy accessory?

Super Mario Odyssey, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker.

Is the cardboard Virtual Boy headset better than the hardware version?

For these four games, yes. The cardboard version allows for more freedom of movement.

Will the original Labo VR headset work with the new Virtual Boy accessory?

No, Virtual Boy games will not work with the original Labo VR headset.

When will the Virtual Boy accessory be available?

February 17.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for the most immersive experience, consider the cardboard version of the Virtual Boy accessory. It offers greater freedom of movement and is significantly more affordable.

Explore more about Nintendo’s innovative gaming accessories on the official Nintendo store.

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Business

Steam Frame vs. other VR headsets – YouTuber shares first comparisons after hands-on

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Valve’s Steam Frame: A Glimpse into the Future of VR – And Where It Fits In

The virtual reality landscape is heating up. Valve’s recent unveiling of the Steam Frame, and tech YouTuber Linus Sebastian’s hands-on impressions, offer a fascinating snapshot of where the technology is headed. It’s no longer just about raw power; it’s about usability, accessibility, and a seamless integration into existing gaming ecosystems. This isn’t just another VR headset; it’s a potential inflection point.

The Rise of Wireless and Standalone VR

For years, VR has been hampered by wires and the need for a powerful PC. The Steam Frame, like the Meta Quest 3, embraces a fully wireless, standalone experience. This is a massive shift. According to Statista, the global VR market is projected to reach $84.04 billion by 2028, and a significant portion of that growth will be driven by the convenience of standalone headsets. The freedom to move without being tethered unlocks new possibilities for immersive gaming and experiences.

The Quest 3 currently dominates this space with its aggressive pricing and ease of use. However, the Steam Frame aims to differentiate itself through a more open platform. This is crucial. Currently, the Meta ecosystem is somewhat walled-off. Valve’s commitment to compatibility with Steam and other PC VR platforms could be a game-changer for users who already have extensive VR game libraries.

Eye Tracking and Foveated Rendering: The Next Level of Immersion

Linus Sebastian highlighted the Steam Frame’s advanced eye-tracking as a standout feature. This isn’t just a gimmick. Eye tracking enables foveated rendering, a technique that dramatically improves visual fidelity where the user is looking while reducing the rendering load elsewhere. This allows for sharper images and higher frame rates without requiring exponentially more powerful hardware.

Imagine playing a fast-paced action game and having crystal-clear visuals focused on your target, while peripheral details remain slightly softer. This is the promise of foveated rendering. Companies like Varjo are already utilizing this technology in their high-end professional VR headsets, but the Steam Frame aims to bring it to a wider audience. A recent study by the University of Maryland showed that foveated rendering can reduce GPU load by up to 60% with minimal perceived visual difference.

The Display Dilemma: LCD vs. OLED and Micro-OLED

While the Steam Frame boasts impressive specs, Linus’s criticism of the LCD displays is valid. LCDs struggle to deliver the deep blacks and high contrast ratios of OLED or Micro-OLED panels. This impacts the overall sense of immersion. Apple’s Vision Pro, with its Micro-OLED displays, currently sets the standard for visual quality, but at a significantly higher price point and with compromises in comfort and gaming focus.

The Bigscreen Beyond 2, while incredibly lightweight and featuring Micro-OLED, remains a niche product due to its high cost and reliance on external base stations. The choice of LCD for the Steam Frame likely represents a trade-off between cost, performance, and manufacturing complexity. However, as OLED and Micro-OLED technology matures and becomes more affordable, we can expect to see these displays become more prevalent in mainstream VR headsets.

The Competitive Landscape: Where Does Steam Frame Fit?

The VR market is becoming increasingly crowded. The PSVR2 offers a solid, albeit tethered, experience for PlayStation gamers. The Meta Quest 3 provides excellent value and a growing ecosystem. The Apple Vision Pro targets a different segment – professionals and early adopters willing to pay a premium for cutting-edge technology. The Steam Frame aims to carve out its own niche by offering a compelling combination of features, including wireless freedom, eye tracking, and an open platform.

Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the importance of ergonomics. A comfortable headset is crucial for extended VR sessions. Valve’s focus on a well-balanced design is a smart move.

Future Trends to Watch

  • Improved Passthrough Technology: The ability to seamlessly blend the virtual and real worlds is becoming increasingly important. Apple’s Vision Pro demonstrates the potential of high-resolution, low-latency passthrough.
  • Hand Tracking Advancements: More accurate and intuitive hand tracking will eliminate the need for controllers in many applications.
  • Haptic Feedback Integration: Advanced haptic suits and gloves will provide a more realistic sense of touch in VR.
  • Metaverse Interoperability: The ability to seamlessly move between different virtual worlds is a key goal for the future of the metaverse.

FAQ

Q: Is the Steam Frame worth waiting for?
A: If you’re a PC VR enthusiast looking for a wireless, high-fidelity experience with eye tracking, it’s definitely worth considering. However, the price and availability are still unknown.

Q: How does foveated rendering work?
A: It dynamically adjusts the rendering resolution based on where your eyes are looking, prioritizing clarity in your field of view.

Q: What are the main advantages of a standalone VR headset?
A: Wireless freedom, portability, and ease of use are the biggest benefits.

Q: Will the Steam Frame support all SteamVR games?
A: Valve has stated its commitment to compatibility with SteamVR, but some games may require optimization.

Did you know? The first commercially available VR headset, the Sensorama, was invented in 1962 by Morton Heilig. It offered not only visuals but also smells, vibrations, and stereo sound!

Want to learn more about the latest advancements in virtual reality? Explore more articles on Notebookcheck and stay ahead of the curve.

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Tech

Bigscreen Beyond 2: Very light VR headset features micro-OLED displays

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Future of Light and High-Resolution VR Headsets

As VR technology continues to evolve, reducing weight while increasing display quality are significant milestones. The Bigscreen Beyond 2 exemplifies this trend with its remarkable lightweight design and micro-OLED panels.

Advancements in Display Technology

In recent developments, micro-OLED technology has emerged as a game-changer for VR displays. Unlike traditional screens, micro-OLED panels are inherently brighter, more vivid, and consume less power, enhancing user experience significantly. The Beyond 2’s 5120 x 2560 pixels and 32 PPD specification promises unprecedented visual clarity. This evolution mirrors how industries have adopted OLED in smartphones and TVs, paving the way for seamless VR experiences that can soon become mainstream.

Did you know? Micro-OLED panels are so small that they mimic the response times of the human retina, providing super-immersive visuals with minimal motion blur.

Achieving Lightweight Design

One of the longest-standing challenges in VR headset design has been bulkiness without compromising on performance. The Bigscreen Beyond 2 tackles this by weighing between 3.8 to 3.84 oz. By carefully managing components such as Adjustable Pupillary Distance (PD) with a simple screwdriver, Bigscreen successfully reduces the headset’s weight, making it a premium choice for avid VR users.

The Role of Pupillary Adjustment

Most VR headsets allow automatic PD adjustments, but the Bigscreen Beyond 2 opts for a manual adjustment to maintain its lightweight design. This intriguing design choice underscores a potential trend where users might gain more control over their VR device functionality at the expense of convenience.

[Link to related article: Comparing Automatic and Manual PD Adjustments in VR Headsets]

Eye-Tracking: A Step Toward Immersive Interactions

Bigscreen’s Beyond 2e variant introduces eye-tracking capabilities, which could be a revolutionary feature in the future of VR. Although foveated rendering—a technology that could drastically reduce computational power needs—took root in VR, it remains under development. Eye-tracking can significantly enhance experiences in applications like VRChat by enabling more natural interactions.

Pro Tip: Mind the Price!

The Beyond 2 starts at $1,019, while the Beyond 2e with eye-tracking is priced at $1,219. These prices reflect the device’s cutting-edge technology, which as the market progresses could become more accessible and affordable.

Venturing into External Connectivity

While the Beyond 2 offers wired connectivity of up to 16 ft, future VR headsets might emphasize wireless capabilities to further reduce VR setups’ clutter. The shift to 6DoF via SteamVR underscores this trend, paving the way for more versatile and user-friendly systems.

Future VR Headset Predictions

Emerging trends suggest that the future of VR devices will focus on achieving a perfect balance between portability, visual fidelity, and advanced interactive features. The move towards standalone yet interconnected systems is evident, as companies explore new technologies to enrich user immersion without sacrificing ease of use.

Integrated AR and VR Opportunities

Integrating AR and VR functionalities could lead to true standalone experiences, and as technology advances, this integration might allow users to transition seamlessly between reality and virtual environments.

[Read more on the coming convergence: The Future of AR and VR]

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes micro-OLED panels advantageous for VR?

Micro-OLED panels offer superior color accuracy, reduced power consumption, and faster response times, enhancing the overall VR experience.

Is eye-tracking technology in VR accessible now?

While not yet mainstream, eye-tracking is being introduced in some premium models and is expected to become standard as its cost decreases over time.

Will VR setups become entirely wireless?

Given the current technological trajectory and consumer demand for convenience, it’s probable that future VR setups will predominantly offer wireless or semi-wireless solutions.

Conclusion and Call to Action

As VR technology continues to evolve, it is essential for enthusiasts and professionals to stay updated. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest industry insights, and share your thoughts in the comments below about how these upcoming trends might shape your VR experiences.

Explore more on VR technologies at Notebookcheck.

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Tech

Upcoming VR headsets 2025: What devices to expect?

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Samsung & Google: “Project Moohan” Takes Center Stage

2025 is expected to spotlight Samsung & Google’s “Project Moohan”, the first headset based on Google’s spatial operating system, Android XR. Scheduled for release in 2025, the device is poised to shake up the VR landscape. With specifications still under wraps, enthusiasts are eager to learn more about its use of the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, promising improved CPU and GPU performance over previous models like the Meta Quest 3. This advancement could redefine mixed reality experiences, drawing interest from both users and developers.

The headset’s features, such as color passthrough, eye tracking for UI navigation, and integration of Google’s AI assistant Gemini, are designed to offer a seamless, interactive experience. With a price point likely above $1,000, it targets a premium segment, focusing on immersive apps and high-end specifications. Both developments and potential surprises are capturing the attention of the VR community, speculating about its market impact post-launch.

Apple’s Vision: The M5 Update and New Horizons

Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple is preparing a new iteration of the Vision Pro using the M5 chipset, potentially launching in the second half of 2025. Despite remaining close-lipped about the hardware details, there are also whispers of a more affordable “Apple Vision” variant designed to bring mixed reality to a broader audience. As Apple continues to refine its designs and chipsets, the evolution of the Vision series exemplifies the tech giant’s focus on integrating AI and enhancing spatial computing experiences, keeping Apple at the forefront of innovation.

What Could the M5 Bring to the Table?

The vision of a more affordable Apple Vision product fuels speculation about reduced manufacturing costs and its subsequent price point. While concrete details remain sparse, Apple’s strategy to fine-tune the existing hardware indicates a commitment to balancing cost with functionality. With the M5 chip expected to power up the device, how Apple manages these updates could significantly sway consumer favor and market dynamics.

Meta’s Strategic Partnerships: Asus and Lenovo

Meta has extended Horizon OS to developers like Asus and Lenovo, aiming to expand its ecosystem with specialized VR headsets. Although specifics remain elusive, the potential of Asus’s gaming-focused headset and Lenovo’s productivity-focused variant underscore a strategic diversification. As companies like Asus explore features like integrated eye and face tracking, these partnerships hold the promise of introducing highly specialized devices leveraging Horizon OS, potentially broadening VR’s appeal across different user segments.

Asus’s Codename Tarius: What’s in Store?

Reports suggest that Asus’s upcoming headset, codenamed Tarius, may include innovative eye and face tracking, similar to how the Meta Quest Pro functions. By potentially opting for OLED microdisplays, the device positions itself within a high-end category, making it a topic of intrigue among VR enthusiasts keen on dissecting Asus’s unique technological approach. These developments could set the pace for the PC VR games in the market, cementing Asus as a key player.

Valve’s Rumored Deckard: A New Era for VR Controllers

The Valve Index, a stalwart in the VR world, is rumored to be preparing for a significant update with the Deckard headset and new controllers codenamed Roy. This possible upgrade in the first half of 2026, spearheaded by Valve’s innovation, could mean enriching PC VR gaming, potentially adopting features from the so-called “Steam Deck for your face”. With implications for SteamVR and potential wireless streaming capacities, Deckard might redefine how users engage with VR, merging comfort with immersive experiences.

Exploring the Rich Landscape of VR Contenders

Beyond the heavyweights, other players like HTC and lesser-known entities such as Immersed Visor and Pimax are crafting compelling narratives within the VR landscape. HTC’s pivot from the anticipated Snapdragon XR2+ Gen based headset to the Vive Focus Vision indicates a strategic re-evaluation. Simultaneously, devices like the Pimax Dream Air, boasting lightweight design and eye-tracking, promise fresh takeaways on user expectation. Each player’s contribution hints at VR’s diverse future, sculpted by innovation, strategic recalibration, and consumer needs.

The Impact of Emerging Technologies

As these companies push the boundaries of current technology, integrating features like high-resolution micro OLED displays and AI-driven interfaces, the potential for VR’s increased adoption and utility across various sectors is pronounced. Whether in professional settings or consumer entertainment, VR’s trajectory is poised for growth, influenced by these technological advancements and strategic partnerships among key industry players.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Project Moohan? Project Moohan, from Samsung and Google, is a mixed reality headset powered by Android XR, set to launch in 2025 with an advanced Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset.

When can we expect a new Apple Vision Pro? Speculations suggest a possible update using the M5 chip in the second half of 2025, with a more affordable version also under consideration.

Are Asus and Lenovo presenting new devices? Both companies, under Meta’s Horizon OS partnership, are developing specialized VR headsets, focusing on gaming and productivity respectively.

Stay informed by joining the conversation on our Facebook, Bluesky, or X pages. Share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments! For feedback, topic suggestions, or ideas, email [email protected].

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