TechCapsules

Port Manor Care Home in Seaford has introduced 360-degree virtual reality headsets within its newly opened Memory Lane Community, a specialist environment for dementia care. The technology enables residents to virtually visit calming beaches, gardens, and other meaningful locations without leaving the facility. Deputy General Manager Ellie West stated that the initiative aims to enhance resident lives by sparking conversations and providing comfort. Resident Sue was among the first to use the headsets, experiencing familiar surroundings that [...]

The official mobile travel guide for Wat Pho, titled Insight Wat Pho, has been launched to enhance visitor engagement at the historic Buddhist temple complex located in Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon district. Released on August 1, 2026, this free application serves as a comprehensive digital companion for tourists and pilgrims alike. It features high-quality audio narration that provides detailed historical and cultural context for the site’s numerous monuments. Additionally, the app includes interactive maps to help users navigate [...]

Nearly a decade after its initial release, Stardew Valley is now fully playable in three dimensions thanks to the Stardew 3DVR mod. Developed by GingasVR and published on Nexus Mods, the update transforms the beloved farming simulator into a 3D experience without using handcrafted models. Instead, the mod automatically generates voxel-like depth from existing sprites, giving buildings and objects a distinct aesthetic reminiscent of Minecraft. Trees and plants are constructed from intersecting flat planes. This approach ensures [...]

Smith+Nephew announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted De Novo classification for its TESSA Spatial Surgery System. This regulatory approval marks the first device in a new FDA category for intra-articular orthopedic stereotaxic navigation instruments. The system utilizes AI, augmented reality, and real-time tracking to enhance arthroscopic procedures. It generates patient-specific 3D anatomical models from preoperative scans, overlaying them onto live 4K video to assist surgeons. The initial indication is for femoral tunnel placement during [...]

Snap will host a Los Angeles event on September 16 to unveil its standalone augmented reality glasses, known as Specs. The company promises the first in-depth look at the $2,195 device, with CEO Evan Spiegel demonstrating its AI assistance, work tools, and entertainment capabilities. Pre-orders opened last month, with shipments expected in the US, UK, and France this fall. Specs feature two sizes, a four-hour battery life, a built-in browser, and AI support from OpenAI and Google. [...]

In a comparative review of budget augmented reality glasses, the XREAL A01 Plus outperforms the Rayneo Air 4 Pro in the $300 price segment. Jason Howell’s analysis highlights the XREAL model’s superior stabilization, effective heat management, and lightweight, portable design featuring swappable faceplates. These attributes make it a practical choice for extended daily use. Conversely, the Rayneo Air 4 Pro distinguishes itself through premium Bang & Olufsen audio and intuitive dual rocker controls, appealing to users prioritizing [...]

Samsung reported its first mobile‑division loss in Q2 2026, citing rising memory costs amid an AI‑driven server shortage. The company announced new products to counter the downturn, including the Galaxy S26 FE, Galaxy Tab S12, and foldable releases slated for the second half of the year. It also previewed Android XR “Intelligent eyewear” developed with Google, with a launch planned later this year. Samsung emphasized sustaining S26 momentum and expanding premium offerings to offset profitability pressure.

The University of Portsmouth has introduced an augmented reality scavenger hunt, shifting engagement from indoor environments to outdoor spaces. This initiative is part of the institution’s broader recruitment and student experience strategy, coinciding with the opening of Clearing for September 2026 starts. The university promotes its unique "Connected Degrees" program, which allows students to integrate a fourth-year placement directly into their three-year course structure. Unlike traditional universities that restrict placements to the third year, Portsmouth offers this [...]