When apps and games are slowly inching towards mixed reality, why not browsers?! That is what Mozilla had thought, so they came up with a VR and AR compatible version of their browser called Firefox Reality. It is the first cross-platform, privacy-friendly open-source browser which is tailor-made for VR and AR headsets. Mozilla already has the prototype version running on HTCVive, but the company hasn’t disclosed any information regarding the list of devices compatible with the new software.
Navigation is done through the remote that comes with the headset. The whole system, when viewed through the headset, seems as if the browser window is floating in space waiting for your commands. But if you have used the desktop version, you know that browser buttons tend to be very small in size.
In the demo version, this was the case as it was a bit cumbersome to hit the buttons using the controller. But this is just the developmental version, in future, we can expect Mozilla to optimize the software.
But there is a cloud of concern that surrounds Mozilla’s new decision to go for Mixed Reality. The primary reason for this is that every VR/AR headset comes with a browser right out of the box. If you look at the Google cardboard, you will have the VR version of Chrome, Oculus has their own version for Gear VR, and Microsoft uses the VR optimized version of their Edge browser on the Windows Mixed Reality platform.
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So why should Mozilla make such a move? Well, in spite of recent events like the Cambridge Analytica, Mozilla wants users to use their Mixed Reality app for the same reason that they use their desktop app – privacy and user security. Google and Facebook have admitted to recording user data, but Mozilla doesn’t do that. So, users who value privacy and speed are going to be Mozilla’s target base. Mozilla is also bringing their quantum browser (the fasted version of Mozilla) to VR/AR as well.
If you think that only games and apps can take advantage of Mixed Reality, then you are mistaken. The browsing is going to be one of the most interactive ways in which you can tap into the potential of VR or AR devices. Imagine you are browsing on a mixed reality headset or device, you can have access to 2D content, 3D content or even 360-degree videos that were only once accessible through a flat faced monitor.
Things are moving fast in 2018 and Mixed Reality platforms are getting thumbs up from developers all around the world. Let’s hope we can see the consumer version of Mozilla Reality soon!