For MacBook Pro M4 users interested in free VR software, there are several options available, though they might not be specifically tailored for the M4 chip. Here are some free VR tools that can be used on a MacBook Pro:
1. Unity: While not exclusively a VR software, Unity is a powerful game engine that supports VR development. It is free to use for projects earning less than $100,000 per year. Unity can be used on MacBook Pro, including those with M1 chips, but it may require some workarounds for VR development, such as using "Build & Run" instead of direct testing via Oculus Link, which is not supported on macOS[1][9].
2. A-Frame: This is a web-based framework for building VR experiences. It's ideal for web developers and allows you to create immersive VR content that can be viewed on various devices, including those connected to VR headsets. Since it's web-based, it can be used on a MacBook Pro without needing specific hardware[3].
3. VR Builder: This is a free, open-source Unity plugin that simplifies VR development by providing a drag-and-drop workflow and visual tools for interactions. It supports multiple VR platforms, including Meta Quest, but requires Unity as a base[3].
4. Jahshaka: A free, open-source toolkit for creating VR content, Jahshaka offers real-time scene building, 3D modeling, and more. It's versatile and can be used on laptops, but its compatibility with specific VR headsets might vary[3].
5. Immersed: This free software allows you to use your MacBook Pro in a VR environment by projecting your laptop screen into a virtual space. It's more about enhancing productivity in VR rather than creating VR content[5].
For viewing VR content, there are also apps like Simple360, which is primarily for iOS but can be used to view 360° content on compatible devices. However, it's not specifically designed for MacBook Pro users[4].
In summary, while there are free VR software options available for MacBook Pro users, they might require some creativity and workarounds to fully utilize VR capabilities, especially for development purposes.
Citations:[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/oculus/comments/rvrkx1/unity_vr_development_with_a_macbook_pro_apple_m1/
[2] https://www.cgl.ucsf.edu/chimera/data/mac-vr-nov2018/mac-vr.html
[3] https://web.tapereal.com/blog/top-7-free-open-source-vr-creation-tools-2024/
[4] https://apps.apple.com/us/app/simple-360-vr-media-player-app/id6443885142
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTCuDrojaHE
[6] https://www.softwareworld.co/free-virtual-reality-software/
[7] https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vr-virtual-reality-360/id1579274717
[8] https://www.pcmag.com/articles/apple-vision-pro-at-work-for-now-its-just-an-expensive-macbook-accessory
[9] https://www.getapp.com/emerging-technology-software/vr/os/mac/