ShapesXR, the whole 3D and XR prototyping gig, right? It’s like 2021 and bam, they pop out with this new thingamajig for animations. Now you can jazz up your XR prototypes. They claim it makes stuff more lifelike. But like, do we really need stuff to be more lifelike? It’s a prototype, not a Broadway show. Anyway.
So, they’ve added this “Animation” feature. And get this—it’s frame-based or something. You don’t even have to touch a line of code, which is a relief because, let’s be honest, coding is not everyone’s jam. You can mess around with UI motion, storytelling beats—whatever that means—maybe some interactive jazz hands. They talk like it’s gonna immerse you into the XR world or something. I guess it’s like diving into a digital pool, minus the wetness. Weird thought.
Their CEO, Inga-someone-or-other—I always lose track of names—was going on about how animation is like, in their DNA. Sounds like they were born with a drawing tablet in one hand. They’ve dreamt of this since forever, apparently. Something about keeping the speed and creative mojo flowing. Neat, I suppose?
But here’s the kicker: apparently you can animate on any device with a browser. Like, whoa, fancy. From your dusty old monitor to those fancy XR headsets like Quest or Pico. It’s all about that collaboration vibe—real-time, baby! Side note: the word ‘collaborate’ always makes me think of my group projects in school. Not always a fun time.
And hey, they’re tossing in some sample spaces and a virtual tutor. Because, of course, you need someone (or something?) to walk you through the ropes when your animation skills are, uh, shaky. More power to you if you don’t end up needing it.
So, ShapesXR is free—sort of. Free like a donut with strings attached. You get this free app on Quest 2 and the Pico Store with all the fun tools, but they slap some restrictions on you. One editable space, 10 states per space, 20 MB limit on assets. Not exactly living large unless you fork out for a Business or Enterprise license.
And there you have it. XR animation, free-ish, with a sprinkle of restrictions and a side of digital inspiration. Or distraction. Take your pick.
