Microsoft has announced that it will shut down its virtual reality platform AltspaceVR on March 10, 2023. Microsoft acquired the platform in 2017 when AltspaceVR was on the verge of collapse due to financial reasons. The company is now directing more resources toward its mixed reality platform Microsoft Mesh.
AltspaceVR was one of the first virtual reality social networking apps that allowed users across headset and web platforms to join 3D chat rooms to play games, watch videos, and attend events. The app had a significant following, but Microsoft has stated that it will be focusing on Microsoft Mesh as the future of connection and collaboration.
"We look forward to what is to come, including our launch of Microsoft Mesh, a new platform for connection and collaboration, starting by enabling workplaces around the world," the company said in a statement.
As AltspaceVR will no longer be available after March 10, Microsoft has stated that users can download their data and content from the VR platform before it's shut down. The company has also noted that the AltspaceVR team will be working on Microsoft Mesh to help bring the new platform to life.
Overall, it's a sad day for the AltspaceVR community, but it's exciting to see what Microsoft has planned for the future of mixed reality and collaboration.
