Meta’s New Features
Meta’s new software update puts a heavy focus on privacy and security. There is a new app lock feature, which lets you lock specific apps instead of the headset as a whole. Secure in-headset payments for new apps is now a thing, instead of having to go to the Oculus mobile app. Messenger’s one-on-one messages and calls in VR is also adding end-to-end encryption for private messages.
Keyboard tracking got an upgrade too, with support for the Apple Magic Keyboard with numeric keypad. Meta is also adding a pair of new Logitech keyboards: the Logitech K375s and Logitech MX Keys. For accessibility, there’s new Mono Audio option to hear the same audio volume from both the left and right speakers on your headset (or from the headphone jack) instead of the default spatial audio effect.
For more info, see their blog post.
VR Cannabis Store
ADC, a leading cannabis manufacturer and distribution company, has joined up with metaverse company Alt Magic to launch a digital cannabis store you can visit virtually using a smartphone, tablet, computer, or VR headset. The store will offer industry news and products available to purchasse. The store initially opened April 20th to some individuals and is now open to the general public.
Medicare coverage in the US for XR-based treatments
The XR Association (XRA), an organization that promotes developement of the XR industry (virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed-reality, and other immersive technology), has announced that it has endorsed Access to Prescription Digital Therapeutics Act of 2022 (H.R.7051/S.3791). The Act would extend Medicare coverage in the US to prescription digital therapeutics, which would include VR therapy solutions. The Act is sponsored by Reps. Mike Thompson (CA-05) and David McKinley (WV-01) and Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV). It could be very helpful for supporting patients with post-traumatic stress, autism, ADHD, and more.