Supernatural VR Fitness App Returns in Early Access with Plans for Future Hardware
The independent VR fitness platform relaunches on Meta Quest, aiming to restore its classic coaching experience while eyeing lighter headsets.
Key points
- Supernatural returns this week in early access on Meta Quest headsets as an independent company.
- The relaunch focuses on restoring original trainers and music tracks that were part of the previous service.
- The team anticipates compatibility with slimmer hardware like Meta VR Glasses, expected next spring.
Supernatural, the virtual reality fitness application, is relaunching this week in early access on Meta Quest devices. The service returns as an independent entity after shutting down earlier this year, bringing back its core workout offerings to users who continued to demand its presence in the market.
The new version of the app will gradually reintroduce the trainers and music tracks that defined the original Meta-owned service. According to CNET, the early-access release includes thousands of workouts and new 3D environments. The company aims to recreate the specific experience that users previously enjoyed, focusing on the rhythm-based, song-driven choreography that characterized the platform before its closure.
The Role of Human Coaching
The fundamental concept of Supernatural remains unchanged, relying on human coaches rather than artificial intelligence companions. Leanne Pedante, Supernatural’s head of fitness, emphasized that the coaching audio comes from a person physically experiencing the workout alongside the user. This approach creates what Pedante described as "invisible empathy," allowing coaches to anticipate user needs based on shared physical exertion during the session.
James Senior, CEO of Supernatural Health, joined Pedante in discussing the service's return. The team highlighted that the 3D volumetric video appearances of trainers before workouts and their real-time guidance during exercises remain central to the product. These elements, combined with the immersive 3D landscapes, were cited as key differentiators for the fitness app in the virtual reality space.
Hardware Evolution and Future Compatibility
The relaunch coincides with anticipated shifts in virtual reality hardware design. Meta is expected to release VR Glasses next spring, which promise a smaller, glasses-like form factor compared to traditional headsets. Supernatural’s team expressed confidence that lighter hardware will be well-suited for fitness activities, potentially reducing sweat accumulation and improving comfort for users during intense workouts.
Other companies are also developing similar portable devices, including Google’s Xreal Aura and Snap Specs. These developments suggest a broader industry trend toward more discreet virtual reality equipment. If successful, such hardware could enable virtual fitness experiences and other VR applications in more portable forms, expanding the utility of the technology beyond stationary headsets.
What should you do?
Users interested in the relaunch should monitor the Meta Horizon Store for the early-access version of the Supernatural app. Those who previously used the service can check for updates regarding the gradual return of specific trainers and music tracks. As the app expands its library, users may want to verify compatibility with their current Quest headset models to ensure optimal performance.
What to do and how to stay safe: Supernatural
- Check the Meta Horizon Store for the availability of the Supernatural early-access release.
- Review your current Meta Quest headset specifications to ensure compatibility with the new app version.
- Monitor official Supernatural channels for updates on the rollout schedule for trainers and music tracks.
- Consider how potential future hardware shifts, like VR Glasses, might affect your long-term fitness app usage.
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Frequently asked questions
When is Supernatural returning?
The app returns this week in early access on Meta Quest headsets, according to CNET.
Will the new Supernatural use AI coaches?
No, the app continues to use human coaches who physically experience the workouts alongside users.
Is Supernatural still owned by Meta?
No, Supernatural is now operating as an independent company following its relaunch.
