Pico’s new platform policy makes life easier for independent XR developers
Pico now lets individual developers publish their own apps — paid or free — directly through the Developer Console, lowering the barrier to entry for anyone looking to break into XR.
Pico announced this week that solo developers can now independently release their XR apps, including paid titles, entirely online via the Pico Developer Console. The new policy is aimed at making it faster and simpler for both veteran XR creators and total newcomers to get their work out to a global audience.
A clear, digital path to launch
The app submission process has been fully digitized. According to Pico, the workflow is designed to be intuitive enough for first-time XR developers, removing friction points that typically slow things down.
Developers get access to a suite of support resources: transparent review standards, streamlined approval processes, extensive documentation, technical support, analytics, and even traffic incentives. Standout apps may be featured with special placements or included in advertising campaigns to boost visibility.
All content from individual developers will be surfaced in the dedicated Discover Indies section. During the initial launch window, apps that perform well can snag extra promotional opportunities and bigger showcase spots.
Pico says this is just the beginning. The company is investing in developer tools and support, including the Pico Developer Center, an emulator, and SDKs for Unity, Unreal, and Web-based platforms.
Pico’s recent moves: More features, more Flexibility
Pico has been busy rolling out new features for its headsets. The latest OS update, 5.13.0.U for the Pico 4 Ultra, introduced the ability to convert 2D photos into 3D images, support for Spatial Photos from the iPhone 16, and a performance tuner for app optimization. Hand tracking tech has also gotten a bump, with a new hand tracking-only mode now available.
The company has expanded its full-body tracking setup by adding a dedicated motion tracker for the waist, which especially improves tracking accuracy in seated or lying positions. On top of that, Nvidia’s GeForce Now cloud gaming service is now available directly on Pico VR headsets, opening up even more options for users and developers alike.
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