OWD project: WebXR docs

[Elchi3]

Problem statement

In 2021, we worked with Meta on creating WebXR browser compat data and MDN WebXR reference docs, see #35.
We documented features from 10 WebXR specifications and wrote 131 new MDN reference pages.

Since then, a few things have evolved. There is now https://wolvic.com/en/ and in 2024 we will see Apple Vision Pro and visionOS. They all support WebXR, so it will become a standard with multiple implementations.

We haven't updated the WebXR guide pages, there are no how-tos, and there is no coherent WebXR tutorial. Also, it is likely that the WebXR standard has evolved and that reference pages need updating and new features need to be documented.

Proposed solutions

The Divio system describes a 4-part scheme and has been guiding us to create great sets of documentation (https://documentation.divio.com/).

We should make sure to have updated reference docs and compatibility information for all relevant XR devices in 2023/2024.

We should create guides that describe the different WebXR modules for VR, AR, Inputs, and integration with APIs like WebGL, WebGPU, Gamepad, and more.

Task list

There are ideas from two years ago when we worked with Meta, see this MDN content issue mdn/content#7276

We should talk to Wolvic, and Apple Vision Pro, and other XR Subject Matter Experts to figure out a good content plan for WebXR docs now that the technology becomes available more broadly.

Roughly, we would need:

• Updated reference docs
• Guide pages to give an overview of WebXR
  • Especially guides for Performance and accessibility.
• How-to pages with practical code snippets to get particular tasks done using WebXR and related technologies
• One or more tutorials that build a sample WebXR application that works cross-browser and cross-device using WebXR, and related technologies such as WebGL, WebGPU, Audio, Gamepad, etc.

Priority assessment

• Effort: (given no current OWD writer is an XR SME and needs to get into the topic) ~12 weeks, likely more.
• Dependencies: XR SME is needed for technical guidance and review
• Community enablement: We should talk to the XR community and raise awareness about this project.
• Momentum: High, given Apple Vision Pro in 2024.
• Enabling learners: Ideally, the guides, how-tos and tutorials can enable learners who haven't written XR apps before.
• Enabling professionals: Updated reference docs are important. We don't want to leave them with the 2021 version of MDN's XR docs.
• Underrepresented topics / Ethical web: n/a given how pricey and high-end this tech is. We should make sure to document all accessibility aspects of this tech to include as many people as possible.
• Operational necessities: no.
• Addressing needs of the web industry: I currently have no surveys or market studies to quote here. Please let me know if anyone has data points.

More information

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For questions, please reach out to [email protected].