Google is investing $250 million in a deal with HTC to strengthen its efforts in the extended reality (XR) space. This agreement includes the integration of select HTC Vive engineering team members into Google, whom the company describes as “an incredibly strong technical team with a proven track record in the VR space.” HTC, known for its pioneering work in virtual reality, introduced the first consumer version of the Vive VR headset in 2016 in collaboration with Valve. More recently, the company launched the Vive XR Elite, following its standalone Vive Focus Vision headset.
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As part of the deal, Google will receive a non-exclusive license to HTC’s extended reality technologies. This means HTC retains the right to use its intellectual properties and will continue developing and supporting its own XR headsets. The agreement also opens the door to potential future collaborations between the two companies.
Google hopes this partnership will accelerate its progress in the headset and smart glasses ecosystem. In December, the company outlined its vision for a unified Android XR platform, which aims to support a range of virtual and mixed reality devices. Among these devices is “Project Moohan,” an Android XR headset developed in collaboration with Samsung, set to debut this year.
HTC’s expertise in XR hardware and software aligns well with Google’s ambitions. While Google has previously dabbled in XR technologies, including its ill-fated Google Glass and the discontinued Daydream VR platform, this deal signals a renewed commitment to becoming a key player in the XR market.
The agreement is subject to standard closing conditions and is expected to be finalized by the end of the first quarter. With this move, Google is positioning itself to compete more aggressively in the growing XR landscape, joining other tech giants racing to define the future of immersive experiences.
