HTC Unveils ‘VIVERSE Worlds’: A Browser-Based 3D and VR Platform Set to Become the ‘YouTube of 3D Content’

HTC has just unveiled VIVERSE Worlds, a new 3D content platform that promises versatility by integrating seamlessly into any website across all devices. This platform stands out as a more streamlined and adaptable solution for hosting and exploring 3D content on the internet.

Unlike HTC’s existing Viverse metaverse platform or Meta’s Horizon Worlds, Viverse Worlds sets itself apart by putting a strong emphasis on the distribution of 3D content. There’s no need for downloading apps here; it offers a web-based interface that caters to both XR headsets and flat-screen devices. Convenient and user-friendly, it opens the door to swift and simple 3D content exploration.

HTC isn’t playing small with this launch. They compare Viverse Worlds to what YouTube achieved for videos, but with a twist for 3D content. It’s pitched as an “open, accessible, and immersive online home,” inviting creators to craft, share, and delve into cutting-edge 3D experiences.

Viverse Worlds aims for high-caliber content through its innovative Polygon Streaming technology. This feature, which was unveiled in 2024, lets users stream intricate, high-poly models efficiently across various platforms and devices. Although web-based content is typically straightforward, rendering restrictions often lead to simple, low-poly visuals—something Viverse Worlds seeks to overcome.

This tech was initially exclusive to Viverse for Business, forming the backbone of Viverse Worlds today. Polygon Streaming selectively streams only the visible 3D elements at the necessary density for users, enhancing 3D content quality without bespoke executables.

HTC, firmly rooted in the enterprise and prosumer XR market, gears Viverse Worlds to appeal both to businesses—those eyeing immersive shopping, 3D manuals, and virtual product displays—and to consumers keen to explore and share an array of XR environments on the platform.

Users can easily follow their favorite creators for updates, gathering all their 3D content in a single place. Adding 3D elements is straightforward too: just copy and paste them into any website as an IFrame at no cost, according to HTC.

Viverse Worlds seamlessly integrates with Sketchfab, a platform hosting millions of 3D models, and accommodates content produced with Viverse Create’s no-code web builder alongside its PlayCanvas browser extension.

While Polygon Streaming and effortless embedding grant Viverse Worlds a potential lead, the competition is fierce. Many platforms like FrameVR, Matterport, and Spatial.io target specific niches rather than aiming for “YouTube” level prevalence, largely due to monetization challenges. Mozilla’s WebXR-based Hubs, a notable counterpart, shut down in 2024 due to financial difficulties.

HTC hasn’t yet revealed its monetization approach, but there’s a chance for insights soon. Public demos of Viverse Worlds are set for Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona from March 3rd to 6th, promising more revelations.

Finally, it’s clear HTC is evolving. Just last month, Google made headlines by acquiring a segment of HTC’s XR engineers for $250 million—a move Google claims will speed up the Android XR platform’s growth in the headset and glasses market. What this means for HTC’s future remains to be seen.