Google’s Acquisition of HTC’s XR Talent Sparks Speculation on HTC’s Future Plans

In a strategic move, Google has expanded its tech prowess by bringing on board several XR engineers from HTC. This development, according to Google, is set to “boost the advancement of the Android XR platform across various headsets and glasses within the ecosystem.”

This latest announcement marks a significant shift in the XR (extended reality) landscape. Last month, Google revealed its Android XR platform, positioning Samsung as likely the first to release a headset powered by this tech. While it’s exciting to see familiar companies diving into consumer XR, there’s a shadow of doubt about Google’s long-term dedication, particularly given its history of abruptly ending projects.

In a detailed discussion with Road to VR, Google has tried to allay some of these concerns, but the tech giant’s track record—marked by the discontinuation of numerous products, such as its Daydream platform from 2016—still looms large.

To bolster its current XR ventures, Google recently confirmed a deal with HTC to acquire a talented group of the latter’s XR engineers. Though specifics are sparse, many believe Google is leveraging HTC’s hardware expertise to solidify its footing in the evolving XR market.

Reflecting on the partnership, Google shared, “For over a decade, we’ve poured resources into XR. Just last month, we launched the Android XR platform alongside our industry partners. Now, with the latest agreement, we’re eager to incorporate several members of the HTC VIVE engineering team into Google, pending standard formalities. This team boasts an impressive VR track record, and we look forward to collaborating to further enhance Android XR for headsets and glasses.”

Interestingly, this isn’t Google’s first major transaction with HTC. Back in 2017, Google spent a whopping $1.1 billion to integrate HTC’s smartphone engineering crew. By the following year, HTC had combined its smartphone and VR arms, signaling a deeper commitment to its XR path.

Given the confidential nature of the deal, HTC’s current position remains somewhat uncertain. Primarily based in Taoyuan, Taiwan, HTC focuses on crafting XR devices for both professional and tech-savvy consumers. Their notable product, the Vive Focus Vision, is a $1,000 standalone mixed reality headset that blends features from past models like the Vive Focus 3 (2021) and Vive Elite XR (2023).

Though HTC occasionally ventures beyond XR, these projects haven’t always gained traction. Take, for instance, the HTC Exodus 1, a blockchain-powered phone from 2018, which led to a follow-up release the next year. In 2019, they tapped into the budding 5G craze with an at-home hub. However, these products have since been phased out, and we’ll just have to see what’s next in HTC’s lineup.