# OpenXR Spatial Containers extension adds cross-platform XR windowing

> **Key takeaway:** The Khronos OpenXR Working Group released the Spatial Containers extensions, enabling standardized multi-application XR experiences across Android XR, Meta, PICO, and other platforms.

**Published:** 2026-10-21T09:01:33+00:00 
**Source:** GamingOnLinux (Steam, Proton & Deck) 
**Category:** open-gaming 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/openxr-spatial-containers-extension-adds-cross-platform-xr-w.html 

## Summary
The OpenXR Working Group within Khronos has released new Spatial Containers extensions that bring a cross-platform windowing API to XR environments. These system-managed spaces let applications display XR content in standardized containers, similar to desktop windows, enabling multitasking and persistent spatial experiences across compatible devices. The extensions were developed over 18 months with contributions from Android XR, Meta, PICO, Collabora, Godot, Unity, and Varjo. Godot has announced support in its upcoming release.

## What Spatial Containers enable
- **Spatial Containers** are system-managed spaces for XR content, analogous to 2D desktop windows
- Applications can transition between **immersive experiences and multitasking** with real-world or other app content
- Supports **persistent spatial experiences** and on-the-go use cases beyond isolated single-app sessions
- **OpenXR specification extension** — not a proprietary API, developed collaboratively by runtime and engine vendors
- **Godot engine** committed to support in upcoming release; Unity and other engines involved in specification development
- Sample code published for developers to begin building with the extensions

## Why it matters
The extension reduces vendor fragmentation in XR by giving developers a single standard to target across Android XR, Meta Quest, PICO, and Varjo devices rather than proprietary APIs. This aligns with broader industry momentum toward multi-app spatial computing as headsets become lighter and more wearable.