Meta’s Horizon OS v76 PTC Introduces Virtual Webcam Feature Using Meta Avatars

Lead: In an exciting development for virtual and mixed reality users, Meta has released Horizon OS version 76 in its Public Test Channel (PTC), enabling Quest users to employ their Meta Avatars as virtual webcams in video calling applications. This innovative feature, available for testing on Quest headsets, allows real-time interactions by incorporating head rotation and estimated lip movements synced with audio from the microphone. The update, available now, is set to enhance the video calling experience by adding a unique VR element to traditional flat screens.

What is the Public Test Channel (PTC)?

The Public Test Channel (PTC) is Meta’s beta release platform for Quest system software. By opting in, users receive early access to upcoming features and updates. However, it’s important to note that not all features tested in the PTC will make it to the stable version.

Key points:
– Provides users with early access to new features.
– Users can experience pre-release builds of Horizon OS.
– Occasionally, functionalities tested may not be included in the final release.

New Features of Horizon OS v76 PTC

Horizon OS version 76 introduces several key enhancements, including:
– **Virtual Webcam Integration:** The newly implemented Android API enables access to the selfie camera, creating a video stream that includes head rotation and estimated lip movements.
– **Selfie Camera Settings:** A dedicated settings tab allows users to customize the background image and field of view, enhancing personalization.

Testing Insights:
– The virtual webcam feature was successfully tested across various sideloaded Android applications, including WhatsApp.
– While the field of view control works, the background setting feature is not yet functional.

User Experiences and Limitations

Many users have found the new feature appealing, yet they have also reported notable limitations:
– The absence of head positional tracking diminishes the expressiveness of body movements.
– Comparatively, the Meta Avatars may not present well on flat screens, lacking the realistic representation offered by competitors like Apple Vision Pro.

User Quote: “Using my Meta Avatar feels less genuine on a flat screen, as it doesn’t capture my body movements, making it feel less like a real webcam experience,” noted one Quest user during testing.

Looking Forward

The introduction of the avatar selfie camera feature follows Meta’s previous enhancements, like the ability to share the first-person view in video calls. The ongoing updates signal a commitment to blending virtual experiences with traditional communication methods.

Conclusion: As Meta continues to innovate, the Horizon OS v76 PTC’s new webcam feature is a promising step toward more interactive and engaging virtual communication. While some limitations remain, ongoing enhancements suggest a bright future for using Meta Avatars in video calls.

Keywords: Meta, Horizon OS, v76, virtual webcam, Meta Avatars, video calling, Quest headsets, Public Test Channel, Android API, mixed reality.

Hashtags: #Meta #HorizonOS #VirtualWebcam #MetaAvatars #VideoCalling #QuestHeadsets #PTC



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