Project Iris | Google Reportedly Shifts Focus from AR Headset Project Iris to Software Platform

In a surprising turn of events, recent reports suggest that Google has decided to shelve its ambitious AR headset project, Project Iris. Initially positioned as a competitor to the forthcoming offerings from Meta and Apple, Google has allegedly changed its strategy and is now focusing on developing a software platform instead. This move aims to allow Google to license its “micro XR” platform to other headset manufacturers, akin to its successful Android ecosystem for smartphones. While the fate of Google’s glasses-shaped AR headset remains uncertain, collaboration with Samsung on a mixed-reality platform offers a glimmer of hope.

The Demise of Project Iris

Insider, a reliable source, indicates that Google has discontinued Project Iris. Citing information from three individuals familiar with the matter, the report suggests that the company faced internal challenges, including layoffs and shifting strategies, during the development process. Furthermore, the departure of Clay Bavor, Google’s head of VR/AR, four months ago, seems to have contributed to the project’s fate. Kurt Akeley, a distinguished engineer previously associated with Project Iris, is now listed as “retired” on his LinkedIn profile.

A Shift Towards Software

Despite shelving Project Iris, Google has not abandoned its AR ambitions. Instead, the company has redirected its focus toward developing a software platform. By creating a “micro XR” platform, Google intends to provide a licensing opportunity to other manufacturers of AR headsets. This strategic shift aligns with Google’s successful approach of providing Android to a broad ecosystem of smartphones. By opting for software development, Google aims to leverage its expertise to establish a significant presence in the expanding AR market without the burden of hardware production.

Collaboration with Samsung

While the fate of Google’s glasses-shaped AR headset remains uncertain, rumors suggest that association with Samsung could pave the way for a different mixed-reality device. Earlier this year, Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm announced a partnership to develop a new mixed-reality platform. Although details regarding this collaboration have been scarce, insiders claim that Google’s initial work on goggles-shaped AR headsets laid the foundation for Samsung’s upcoming device. This wouldn’t be the first time Google and Samsung joined forces to deliver cutting-edge technology, as evidenced by their collaboration on modifying Android for the Galaxy Fold series.

The Legacy of North

To bolster its AR capabilities, Google acquired North, a renowned AR glasses company, in 2020. Although the details of the acquisition were undisclosed, it appears that many North employees, including co-founders Stephen Lake, Matthew Bailey, and Aaron Grant, still work for Google. This acquisition likely brought valuable expertise to Google’s AR endeavors, even if the specific plans for North’s technology remain uncertain in light of the Project Iris setback.

Looking Ahead

While Google’s decision to shelve Project Iris may disappoint some AR enthusiasts, the company’s renewed focus on software development and potential collaboration with Samsung keeps the AR future bright. Google’s intention to license its “micro XR” platform to other headset manufacturers hints at a strategy that could help establish its presence in the AR market, even without a standalone hardware offering. As Google Vice President Sameer Samat stated at Google I/O 2023, the collaboration with Samsung will be further detailed later this year, fueling anticipation for what lies ahead in the realm of mixed reality.

Conclusion

Google’s reported decision to halt Project Iris, its AR headset venture, signals a shift towards software development for the AR market. The company aims to create a software platform, potentially licensing it to other manufacturers, while collaborating with Samsung on an upcoming mixed reality device. Despite challenges during the development of Project Iris, Google’s acquisition of North and its talented employees provide a strong foundation for continued innovation in the AR space. As the AR market evolves, Google’s strategic moves will undoubtedly shape its role in the future of augmented reality.

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