While companies like Facebook and Apple are increasing their investment in augmented and virtual reality technologies, Google has largely discontinued many of its own initiatives in this area over the past year.

Google recently announced the cessation of active development for Tilt Brush, a virtual reality application that gained prominence as one of the first successful software offerings for VR. This program enabled users to create digital artwork and immersive environments by utilizing VR controllers as virtual painting tools.

Although Google will no longer release new versions of the application, the source code will be made publicly available on github, allowing developers to create their own modifications and experiences. The application will remain accessible for download through VR headset app stores.

According to a statement published by Google, “[W]e want to continue supporting the artists using Tilt Brush by putting it in your hands.” The company intends to empower users by open-sourcing the project, providing insight into its development, and encouraging further innovation based on the existing framework.

Google initially acquired the development team behind Tilt Brush, Skillman & Hackett, in 2015.

Earlier in January, Patrick Hackett, a co-creator of Tilt Brush, revealed his departure from Google to join I-Illusions, the studio responsible for the VR game Space Pirate Trainer. LinkedIn records indicate that Drew Skillman, the other co-founder, ceased work on the VR project in 2018 and is currently a member of the Google Stadia team.

Last month, Google also discontinued Poly, its library of 3D models, which allowed users to distribute digital art, including creations made with Tilt Brush.

A representative from Google did not provide any additional information.

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