Firefox Reality is introduced by Mozilla. Since virtual reality is a technology that is becoming popular, many companies are adapting their products to make it easier to connect to it. Mozilla, the developer of the popular Firefox browser, is the most recent of these, and its announcement today opens up new ways for users of VR Oculus, Daydream and Viveport eyewear to interact on the web.
Among the various web browser developers, Mozilla is undoubtedly one of the most committed when it comes to virtual reality. In particular, the company contributes to the WebVR project and provides access to virtual reality experiences directly from the Internet. Firefox Quantum Browser also provides access to WebVR content via Oculus Rift, HTC Vive or Windows Mixed Reality headsets.
Specifically, Mozilla today announced Firefox Reality version 1.0. Firefox Reality is its first web browser designed exclusively to work with virtual reality and augmented reality glasses. The software is already available in the app stores of Oculus, Viveport, and Daydream. According to the company, Firefox Reality offers the opportunity to navigate the 2D websites and have immersive experiences.
Last April, Mozilla announced that it was working on this browser and emphasized that it was an open source project whose purpose was for other vendors to integrate it into their platforms. In addition, the company made it clear that Firefox Reality is on its way to answer the questions about what the Virtual Reality experience should look like in web surfing. Andre Vrignaud, head of the strategy for mixed reality platforms at Mozilla, said:
We needed to review everything, including navigation, text input, environment, search options and much more. This took years of research and countless discussions with users, content creators and hardware partners. This resulted in a browser created for the virtual reality medium it serves. It makes a big difference, and we think you’ll love all the features and details we’ve designed specifically for a mixed reality browser.
It makes sure that users have the possibility to browse the Internet through voice commands that are interpreted by the VR glasses and thus try to lessen the input of text when searching for content on the web. They also announced that users would be able to enjoy an immersive experience from the very first moment while promising to offer a wide range of video games, environments and new experiences through alliances with developers from around the world.
In addition, Mozilla announced that Firefox Reality will use the Quantum search engine that it recently introduced in its mobile version. It will ensure the performance and speed of the new browser based on Virtual Reality. Concerning privacy, the company has added an anonymous tab just like in the original version.
At the moment this version 1.0 lacks some essential features like bookmarks or 360-degree video support. However, Mozilla promises to make these features available as soon as possible with the 1.1 updates, and Firefox Reality is now also available for standalone VR headsets such as the Oculus Go, Lenovo Mirage Solo or HTC Vive Focus.