Using WebVR with Windows Mixed Reality

Article
01/19/2021

Important

Most modern web browsers have deprecated support of WebVR in favor of WebXR, the new standard for creating immersive web experiences for VR headsets. Please install the new Microsoft Edge for WebXR support.

What is WebVR

WebVR is an open specification that lets you experience VR right from a browser. If a website implements WebVR support and provides 3D content, it can display immersive content in the headset, with user consent.

What is the difference between WebVR and browsing the web in VR

WebVR is a technology that allows a website author to add VR functionality to a page. The WebVR API is used by a page to display 3D content (such as 360-degree video, or a 3D model, or a 3D game) to the entirety of your headset. Example: Viewing a 360 Video on cnn.com/vr. If a page supports WebVR, it will add a button or other UI element that you can select to enter VR.

Browsing the web in VR means using the Edge browser while you're wearing your headset, as a 2D app slate within the Cliffhouse.

Do all websites support WebVR

No. Website authors must opt in to use WebVR and they may create optimized sites for specific browsers, headsets, and controllers. Some WebVR content is optimized for mobile VR devices only. Also, keep in mind that web sites need to explicitly create and provide WebVR content. The number of sites that have some WebVR compatible content is growing every day.

Can I use my Vive/Oculus etc to view WebVR content in Microsoft Edge

No. A Windows Mixed Reality headset is required to use WebVR in Edge. However, you can access WebVR content in another browser; see the complete list of compatible devices and browsers at: WebVR.rocks.

Where can I find the WebVR developer documentation

The developer documentation is located here: WebVR Developer Documentation.

I've found a website with WebVR that doesn't work in Windows Mixed Reality. What do I do

You can report broken sites directly to the Microsoft Edge browser team in the issue tracker, or via twitter using #EdgeBug hashtag.

You can also log bugs using the Windows Feedback Hub app under category:

Microsoft Edge -> Website Issues

What is a good page to test if WebVR is working

See webvr.info samples.

How do I set up WebVR

To experience WebVR content on a Windows Mixed Reality headset (using hardware or simulation), you must:

Ensure your headset is connected.
Launch Microsoft Edge, either on the desktop or within Mixed Reality.
Navigate to a WebVR enabled page.
Select the Enter VR button within the page (the location and visual representation of this button may vary per website). It may look similar to:
The first time you try to enter VR on a specific domain, the browser will ask for consent to use immersive view, select yes:
Your headset should begin displaying the WebVR content.