Microsoft's decision to deprecate its Windows Mixed Reality (WMR) platform in 2024 left many VR enthusiasts with hardware that seemed destined for obsolescence. However, a new development promises to breathe life back into these devices. An unofficial SteamVR driver, aptly named 'Oasis,' is set to launch later this month, offering renewed compatibility for WMR headsets.
Introduced in 2017, Windows Mixed Reality aimed to provide an accessible VR experience through partnerships with manufacturers like Acer, Asus, Dell, Lenovo, HP, and Samsung. Despite initial enthusiasm, the platform struggled to gain significant traction. In October 2024, Microsoft ceased support for WMR with the rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2, effectively rendering many WMR headsets inoperable on updated systems. Users who refrained from updating could continue using their devices, but the writing was on the wall: WMR was on its way out.
In conclusion, 'Oasis' represents a significant step toward preserving the usability of Windows Mixed Reality headsets in a post-WMR-support world. While challenges remain, the initiative offers a beacon of hope for users seeking to continue their VR experiences without investing in new hardware.
Source: Road to VR 'Oasis' WMR Driver Expected Later This Month, Bringing New Life to Microsoft's PC VR Headsets
Introduced in 2017, Windows Mixed Reality aimed to provide an accessible VR experience through partnerships with manufacturers like Acer, Asus, Dell, Lenovo, HP, and Samsung. Despite initial enthusiasm, the platform struggled to gain significant traction. In October 2024, Microsoft ceased support for WMR with the rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2, effectively rendering many WMR headsets inoperable on updated systems. Users who refrained from updating could continue using their devices, but the writing was on the wall: WMR was on its way out.Enter 'Oasis': A Beacon of Hope
In response to the deprecation, Matthieu Bucchianeri, a software engineer with experience in Microsoft's mixed reality division, embarked on a personal project to revive WMR headsets. The result is 'Oasis,' an unofficial SteamVR driver designed to bridge WMR headset support directly to SteamVR, eliminating the need for Microsoft's Mixed Reality Portal. Bucchianeri has announced a tentative global release date of August 29th, pending Valve's approval for release on Steam.Key Features of 'Oasis'
The 'Oasis' driver boasts several features aimed at restoring full functionality to WMR headsets:- 6DoF Tracking: Supports full six degrees of freedom tracking for both headsets and motion controllers.
- Motion Controller Support: Ensures compatibility with various WMR motion controllers, including button inputs and haptics.
- Display Options: Offers rendering at 90 Hz or 60 Hz, catering to different performance preferences.
- Compatibility: Designed to work with any Windows Mixed Reality headset, with confirmed testing on models like the Acer AH101, HP Reverb G1, and HP Reverb G2.
Limitations and Challenges
While 'Oasis' presents a promising solution, it comes with certain limitations:- GPU Compatibility: The driver is currently restricted to Nvidia GPUs due to the way SteamVR interfaces with GPU drivers. Efforts to gain AMD's permission for compatibility have been unsuccessful, with Bucchianeri stating that the effort is "dead in the water."
- Operating System Support: Although 'Oasis' works with Windows 11 version 24H2 and above, configurations involving Windows 10 or earlier versions of Windows 11 are not officially supported. Users on these systems will not receive technical support.
- Open Source Status: Due to the nature of the development process, which involved deep reverse-engineering, 'Oasis' will not be open source. Bucchianeri has emphasized the importance of respecting non-disclosure agreements and intellectual property rights, stating that sharing the code could inadvertently expose proprietary information.
Implications for the VR Community
The release of 'Oasis' has significant implications for the VR community:- Revitalizing Existing Hardware: Users who invested in WMR headsets now have a pathway to continue using their devices, extending the lifespan of their hardware and reducing electronic waste.
- Community-Driven Solutions: The development of 'Oasis' underscores the potential of community-driven initiatives to address gaps left by corporate decisions. It highlights the dedication of developers like Bucchianeri to support and sustain the VR ecosystem.
- Potential for Broader Compatibility: While current limitations exist, the success of 'Oasis' could pave the way for future developments that address GPU compatibility issues and expand support to a wider range of systems.
Looking Ahead
As the August 29th release date approaches, anticipation builds within the VR community. Users are eager to see how 'Oasis' performs in real-world scenarios and whether it can deliver on its promise to restore functionality to WMR headsets. Bucchianeri has indicated that more information will be shared leading up to the release, and users are encouraged to stay tuned for updates.In conclusion, 'Oasis' represents a significant step toward preserving the usability of Windows Mixed Reality headsets in a post-WMR-support world. While challenges remain, the initiative offers a beacon of hope for users seeking to continue their VR experiences without investing in new hardware.
Source: Road to VR 'Oasis' WMR Driver Expected Later This Month, Bringing New Life to Microsoft's PC VR Headsets