TL;DR
SideQuest is set to revive Microsoft’s social VR platform AltspaceVR this fall. The move signals renewed interest in social virtual reality, though details remain limited. This development could impact the VR social landscape significantly.
SideQuest will relaunch Microsoft’s social VR platform, AltspaceVR, this fall, according to an announcement on r/Vive. This move aims to bring back the social virtual reality space that was previously shut down by Microsoft, marking a significant development in the VR social ecosystem.
According to a post on r/Vive, SideQuest is planning to revive AltspaceVR, a social VR platform acquired by Microsoft in 2017, with a relaunch scheduled for this fall. The platform was previously shut down in early 2023, but the post indicates a concerted effort to bring it back, though official details are still emerging. Learn more about social VR platforms.
While the exact scope and features of the relaunch are not yet confirmed, the initiative appears to be driven by SideQuest, a platform known for supporting VR content and community engagement. The post does not specify whether Microsoft is directly involved in the revival or if it is entirely managed by SideQuest.
Microsoft has not officially announced any plans regarding AltspaceVR’s relaunch, and the details about the platform’s new features, target audience, or integration with other Microsoft services remain unclear at this time.
The revival of AltspaceVR could significantly influence the social VR landscape, offering a renewed space for virtual gatherings, events, and community building. Given AltspaceVR’s prior popularity among VR users and its integration with Microsoft services, its return could attract both existing users and new audiences.
This move also reflects broader industry trends toward social connectivity in virtual environments, especially as VR hardware becomes more accessible. The platform’s relaunch might encourage more developers and creators to invest in social VR content, potentially shaping future platform standards.
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History of AltspaceVR and Its Closure
AltspaceVR was one of the earliest social VR platforms, launched in 2013 and acquired by Microsoft in 2017. It gained popularity for hosting virtual meetups, events, and social experiences, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when virtual gatherings surged.
In January 2023, Microsoft announced the shutdown of AltspaceVR, citing strategic shifts and resource reallocations. The closure disappointed many users who relied on the platform for social interaction, and it left a gap in the social VR ecosystem.
The recent announcement by SideQuest suggests a potential reopening, although Microsoft has not publicly confirmed any plans to reacquire or relaunch the platform itself.
“SideQuest’s plan to revive AltspaceVR indicates a renewed focus on social VR experiences, though details are still scarce.”
— an anonymous researcher
Details of the Relaunch and Microsoft’s Role
It is not yet clear whether Microsoft is actively involved in the relaunch or if the platform will operate independently under SideQuest. The specific features, user base, and integration with existing Microsoft services remain unknown, and official statements are awaited.
Awaiting Official Details and Platform Launch
Further information is expected from SideQuest in the coming months, including official confirmation of the relaunch date, platform features, and any collaboration with Microsoft. Users and developers will likely monitor updates closely as the platform prepares to return to the VR social scene.
Key Questions
Will Microsoft be directly involved in the relaunch of AltspaceVR?
It is currently unclear whether Microsoft will participate directly. The announcement from SideQuest does not specify Microsoft’s involvement, and no official Microsoft statements have been made.
What features might the new AltspaceVR include?
Details about the platform’s features are still unknown. The relaunch could potentially include improvements or new integrations, but official information is pending.
When exactly will AltspaceVR relaunch?
A specific launch date has not been announced; the platform is scheduled to relaunch this fall, with further details expected soon.
Will existing AltspaceVR users be able to access the new platform?
It is not yet confirmed how existing users will transition or whether their accounts will be preserved. Official guidance is expected closer to the relaunch date.
How does this affect the future of social VR platforms?
The revival could boost social VR’s popularity and encourage more content development, potentially influencing the competitive landscape among VR social spaces.
Source: r/Vive
