Virtual reality enthusiasts eagerly await the arrival of Meta’s Quest 3 VR headset, set to launch later this year. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently had the opportunity to test a prototype of the device, shedding light on what users can expect and how it will compare to Apple’s upcoming mixed-reality headset. Gurman’s hands-on experience revealed several notable improvements and enhancements over its predecessor, the Quest 2.
The prototype, codenamed Eureka, boasts a lighter and thinner design compared to its predecessor. The head strap has been reinforced and now incorporates fabric on the sides instead of plastic, contributing to a more comfortable and secure fit. However, the most significant update is found in the front of the device, which features an advanced sensor suite. Three vertical pill-shaped sensor areas house two color video pass-through cameras, two standard cameras, and a depth sensor. This substantial upgrade provides enhanced capabilities compared to the Quest 2, eliminating the need for users to designate the boundaries of their play space.
Additional improvements include tracking cameras on the front lower sides of the headset, a volume rocker on the bottom, and a wheel for adjusting interpupillary distance (IPD). Unlike the Quest 2, users can now adjust the Quest 3’s IPD without removing the headset, offering greater convenience and customization options.
Gurman reports that the clarity of the VR displays in the Quest 3 is comparable to the Quest 2, despite rumors of a slightly higher resolution. However, mixed-reality applications and overall performance receive significant upgrades. The addition of dual RGB cameras provides a remarkable improvement in pass-through, allowing users to use their phones while wearing the headset—a previously challenging task on the Quest 2. The Quest 3 also features Qualcomm’s next-generation Snapdragon XR2 chipset, resulting in shorter app launch times and more consistent frame rates in games.
However, the Quest 3 lacks certain features present in the Quest Pro, such as face and eye tracking, which would enable foveated rendering. Meta is exploring alternative methods to improve peripheral tracking without implementing controller-mounted cameras, another feature absent in the Quest 3.
Regarding pricing, Meta has yet to finalize the cost, but insiders involved in the development speculate that it may be higher than the Quest 2’s $400 price tag. It is possible that Meta will continue offering the Quest 2 at a lower price point alongside the Quest 3. Furthermore, Meta does not have immediate plans to release a new Quest Pro, as the initial version reportedly faced challenges. The company intends to unveil the Quest 3 in October, aligning with previous statements made by company executives regarding the release timeline.
As the launch date approaches, VR enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the Quest 3, which promises improved features, design, and performance, setting the stage for an immersive and dynamic virtual reality experience.
