OpenXR now available on the Microsoft Store for Windows Mixed Reality

What you need to know

• OpenXR is available for Windows Mixed Reality devices through the Microsoft Store.
• Users can now run OpenXR-based applications on Windows Mixed Reality devices.
• Microsoft joins SteamVR, Oculus, Gear VR, and Daydream with its support for OpenXR.

OpenXR is now available for Windows Mixed Reality (WMR) devices through the Microsoft Store. To run apps that rely on OpenXR, users need to download the OpenXR app for WMR. OpenXR is from Khronos and allows developers to create applications for virtual and augmented reality that can run on any platform that has OpenXR APIs.

Unity, Valve, Intel, AMD, Oculus, and several other large companies currently publicly support OpenXR according to Khronos' website. Earlier this year, Microsoft's Alex Kipman weighed in on the importance of OpenXR.

Several major platforms already support OpenXR, including SteamVR, Oculus, and Daydream. The idea of OpenXR lines up well with Microsoft's vision of allowing developers to create code once and then use it on several platforms. It helps WMR gain more apps and games and helps VR and AR as a whole.

Portable (and affordable) power accessories we love

Each and every one of these charging gadgets will keep your favorite gear and gadgets going for longer, and none of them costs more than $30.

VisionTek 8,000 mAh micro-USB power bank ($13 at Dell)

This compact dual-output powerbank can speedily recharge any and all your devices, thanks to a two-amp "fast charge feature," using its micro-USB out port. Its simple design includes an LED indicator, and it costs about as much as a single ticket to the movies.

Panasonic eneloop AA batteries (From $13 at Dell)

Panasonic's rechargeable batteries are among the best available, and just a couple of them will keep your favorite remote, mice or other peripherals powered up when you need them. They're also eco. And the company's affordable charger fits and charges both AA and AAA batteries at the same time.

Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($30 at Dell)

This unobtrusive Qi wireless charging pad looks good (and kind of like a UFO …) and easily charges all your Qi-compatible device up to 5W. Its LED indicator lights up when you're charging. And it costs just $30.