Firefox Reality, created by Mozilla for use in virtual reality environments, was first released in the fall of 2018. It was subsequently made available on Viveport, Oculus, Pico and Hololens platforms through various app stores.
While the browser was capable of 2D navigation, the expectation was that it would allow users to browse 3D content of the web, such as 360-degree panoramic images and videos, 3D models, and WebVR games. But emerging news says that this will no longer be possible.
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Mozilla pulls the plug on Firefox Reality browser
After a long wait and decision process, Mozilla announced that it has officially decided to pull the plug on Firefox Reality. But instead it directs users who want to use a web browser in VR to Wolvic, Igalia’s upcoming open-source browser based on the source code of Firefox Reality.
In addition, Wolvic is said to be available for download starting next week. So people who already use Firefox Reality won’t have to give up entirely. Instead, they can be redirected to the new browser. Also, Firefox Reality will not be removed from app stores until Wolvic arrives.
In the statement made by Igalia on the subject, the following is said:
Providing a comprehensive operating system, XR needs web browsers to be a part of it. At Igalia, we also believe that the Web is important to the XR space in many ways. It would be pretty scary to enter a new reality without access to what already exists on the web.
Additionally, WebXR opens up new ways to navigate, share and experience information driven from within the browser. Redesigning a browser for a comprehensive operating system is a new experience. This innovation means that the browser selection is currently limited.
It will initially run on Wolvic, Oculus, HTC Vive Focus, Pico Interactive, Daydream, Huawei AR Glasses and open source Lynx devices. However, the browser, which will be available next week, will still be in beta as Mozilla tries to transfer some of the features it previously provided to it.
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