Khronos releases OpenXR Spatial Containers windowing API for XR
The extensions add system-managed spaces for XR apps, built over 18 months with Android XR, Meta, PICO, Collabora, Godot, Unity and Varjo.
The OpenXR Working Group within Khronos has released Spatial Containers extensions, adding a cross-platform windowing API for XR, according to gamingonlinux.com. The release also includes a sample so developers can try building applications with the new extensions.
Spatial Containers are system-managed spaces in which applications can display XR content, functioning in a similar way to windows on a desktop. The aim is a single windowing approach that works across XR platforms rather than one built separately for each runtime.
The extensions were developed over 18 months through collaboration among OpenXR runtime and game engine vendors, including Android XR, Meta, PICO, Collabora, Godot, Unity and Varjo. Among those involved were Jared Finder, XR platform and SDK lead at Android XR; Nikita Lutsenko, Distinguished Software Engineer, Wearables at Meta; Praveen Babu J D, OpenXR Tech Lead at PICO; and Dr. Rylie Pavlik, Principal Software Engineer at Collabora and OpenXR Specification Editor.
Godot stated that it will support spatial containers in an upcoming release.
Valve's Steam Frame was recently introduced as an XR device where the new extensions may be used.
Quick answers
What are OpenXR Spatial Containers?
They are extensions that add a cross-platform windowing API to XR, letting applications display content in system-managed spaces similar to desktop windows.
Which companies worked on the Spatial Containers extensions?
Android XR, Meta, PICO, Collabora, Godot, Unity and Varjo took part in the 18-month collaboration.
Will Godot support Spatial Containers?
Godot stated it will support spatial containers in an upcoming release.