WebXR

Niladri Das
2 min readJun 11, 2024

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WebXR stands for Web Extended Reality, and it’s a set of standards that allows web browsers to deliver immersive experiences like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). Here’s a breakdown of what WebXR offers:

  • VR and AR in the Web Browser: Traditionally, VR and AR experiences required dedicated apps or software. WebXR allows developers to create these experiences directly within web browsers, making them more accessible and platform-independent.
  • Standardized Approach: WebXR provides a consistent API (Application Programming Interface) for developers to work with. This means developers can write code that works across different browsers and VR/AR devices with WebXR support.
  • Access to XR Hardware: WebXR gives web applications access to features of VR and AR devices like motion tracking, position sensors, and controllers. This enables developers to create interactive experiences that respond to the user’s movements in the real world (AR) or virtual world (VR).

Here are some benefits of using WebXR:

  • Wider Reach: WebXR experiences can be accessed by anyone with a compatible web browser and VR/AR headset, eliminating the need for app downloads or installations.
  • Future-Proofing: Since WebXR is based on web standards, experiences should continue to work on new AR/VR hardware as it becomes available.
  • Cross-Platform Development: Developers can target both VR and AR experiences with a single codebase, reducing development time and effort.

Here are some things to keep in mind about WebXR:

  • Browser Support: Not all web browsers currently support WebXR, although most major browsers are working on implementing it.
  • Device Compatibility: WebXR experiences might require specific VR/AR headsets or mobile devices with appropriate sensors for full functionality.
  • Development Stage: WebXR is still under development, so some features or functionalities might be evolving or not fully standardized yet.

Overall, WebXR has the potential to revolutionize how we experience the web by making VR and AR experiences more accessible and user-friendly. As browser and device support continues to grow, WebXR is expected to play a significant role in the future of immersive web experiences.

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