Hands-on experience with the Quest 3 headset reveals Meta’s unwavering commitment to mixed reality.
The highly anticipated Meta Quest 3 is poised for launch this year, with rumors suggesting a substantial increase in power and a revitalized design compared to its widely acclaimed predecessor, the Meta Quest 2. To shed light on what lies ahead, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman graciously shared insights after personally testing a prototype of Meta’s VR headset. This unprecedented encounter offers us a glimpse into the interface, video pass-through mode, software features, and gaming prowess of the Quest 3. Furthermore, it allows us to ponder how it might measure up against Apple’s long-awaited AR/VR headset, rumored to be unveiled at WWDC 2023.
Gurman commended the prototype, code-named Eureka, for its significantly lighter and thinner form, a testament that aligns with earlier leaks regarding the Quest 3’s compact dimensions. Notably, the head strap exudes enhanced durability, employing fabric instead of plastic, which adorned its predecessor.
The visor itself underwent a redesign to optimize mixed-reality functionality. Gurman unveiled that it now boasts three vertically oriented, pill-shaped sensor areas housing two color video pass-through cameras, enabling users to perceive their surroundings without removing the headset. Additionally, two standard cameras and the Quest line’s inaugural depth sensor reside within these areas. Two tracking cameras are positioned on the lower front sides of the headset. The lower portion conveniently accommodates a volume rocker and an IPD adjustment wheel, enabling users to fine-tune the distance between their pupils without necessitating the removal of the headset. Notably, the power button and USB-C port retain their placement on the side of the headset.
Gurman attested, The actual clarity and VR displays within the Quest 3 feel akin to those in the Quest 2—despite rumors of a marginally higher resolution. However, two aspects revealed significant improvements: video pass-through for mixed reality and the device’s swifter performance. The comparison between the video pass-through capabilities of Meta’s offering and Apple’s rumored headset remains to be seen, but Gurman proclaimed that the dual RGB cameras elevate the Quest 3 to an entirely new level when juxtaposed with the Quest 2. Astonishingly, Gurman even managed to use his phone while wearing the headset. In terms of performance, the Quest 3 is expected to incorporate the next-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 chipset, surpassing its predecessor’s capabilities.
Naturally, the Quest 3’s enhanced specifications may come at a higher price point, as previous rumors have indicated. Gurman concurs with this notion, highlighting, Meta has yet to finalize the pricing for the device, but individuals involved in its development anticipate it may exceed the Quest 2’s $400 price tag. Additionally, he suggests that the company might choose to continue offering the Quest 2 at a reduced price.
According to rumors, Meta intends to launch the Quest 3 in late 2023, with Gurman hinting at a potential announcement in October. As for Apple, the tech giant is anticipated to unveil its headset at WWDC 2023 on June 5th.
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