Extension exposes presence on the device to suspend actions and resume context. See limits, privacy and fallback.
Direct answer
The OpenXR extension XR_EXT_user_presence allows an application to know whether the system considers the user present on the device and receive changes to that state. This can pause training, audio, capture, or timer when the headset is removed and resume in a controlled manner. Because the extension is optional and not ratified, presence should not be used as proof of identity, attention, or consent.
Presence can protect task state
When removing the headset, the app can freeze counts, hide sensitive information and prevent accidental progress.
Resumption must ask for context
Returning does not mean that the person is ready. Show where you left off and confirm critical actions before continuing.
Sign does not identify the person
Use sensor does not authenticate operator or prove attention. Login, authorization and supervision remain separate.
Absence of the extension is a normal scenario
The application needs to check support and work with session events, manual pause, or conservative policy.
Nexus Reading
Map out what pauses, persists, and expires. Test quick removal, user switching, long suspension and return with unstable network.
FAQ
User presence confirms identity?
No. The signal indicates presence according to the system, not who is using the device.
Is extension mandatory in OpenXR?
No. It is optional and not ratified.
What should you pause?
It depends on the task; timers, capture, private audio, and irreversible actions are common candidates.
Essential guides to delve deeper into the decision
This editorial analysis was produced by Nexus from the official sources below, consulted on October 19, 2026. The text is original and interprets practical implications for companies.
- Khronos — XR_EXT_user_presence: status, presence events, and unratified status.
- Khronos — OpenXR 1.1 specification: session cycle and extension negotiation.
Date reported by main source: OpenXR 1.1 specification, extension revision 1; analysis on October 19, 2026.