As Oculus Touch celebrates its first anniversary, its creator has introduced a far-reaching update to the Rift. Core 2.0, now in beta, aims to provide a better link between the headset and your PC in order to get the best possible results out of both pieces of hardware.

Perhaps the most impactful functionality introduced as part of this update is Dash, which makes it easier to switch between apps and interact with friends without taking off your headset.

One intriguing component of Dash is Oculus Desktop, a feature that presents your standard Windows desktop and traditional apps in virtual reality. The Dash interface can be pulled up at any time, giving easy access to your friends list, frequently used apps, and other content.

Next, there’s Home, which has been rebuilt from the ground up. Users can now customize their virtual living space, adding decorative collectibles and even some interactive items.

There’s currently one room layout with a few hundred built-in items — a blog post announcing the Core 2.0 software update teased some “rare masterpieces” created by the Oculus Rex team, who were responsible for First Contact and Dreamdeck. Over time, these customization options will grow.

New items are unlocked by donning the Rift and spending time in VR, although there will be a limit on how many item packs users can earn during the beta. Trophies and game cartridges are tied to particular achievements and the games present in your library. Some upcoming additions will draw from community creations, and there will even be a way to decorate Home with sculptures from Oculus Medium.

Home will also let users hang out with one another in real time. Although this functionality won’t be ready for the beta, it’s said to be one of the team’s top priorities going forward – and you’ll still be able to visit other users’ spaces in the upcoming preview.

To opt into the Oculus Core 2.0 beta, Rift owners need to join the Public Test Channel. Testers are encouraged to provide detailed feedback so that the development team can address some of the ways its currently “rough around the edges,” and introduce new features in a timely manner.

Related Posts

This extraordinary humanoid robot plays basketball like a pro, really

Digital Trends has already reported on the G1’s ability to move in a way that would make even the world’s top gymnasts envious, with various videos showing it engaged in combat, recovering from falls, and even doing the housework.

How to Use Pollo AI Video Generator: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here we’re talking about the Pollo AI video generator which can be used with a variety of prompts, and I’ll talk you through using each one.

This 49-inch curved Samsung ultrawide is down to $799.99 and basically replaces two monitors at once

You’re getting a massive 49-inch curved Dual QHD panel, 120Hz refresh rate, USB-C, HDR400, and an adjustable stand that’s built for serious productivity but still fast and smooth enough for after-hours gaming.