The first mixed-reality headset is here, and it did not come from Apple, but rather, from Meta who recently unveiled the Quest 3 headset to the world. The device resembles the design of the Quest lineup with its device that covers the eyes, only that it adds more to it with the addition of cameras facing outwards to bring the augmented reality features.
Meta Unveils the Quest 3, a Mixed-Reality Headset Coming Soon
In a move that has taken the tech world by storm, Meta and its CEO Mark Zuckerberg have officially unveiled its mixed-reality headset, the Quest 3. The Quest 3 is set to be the successor of the Quest 2 VR and marks a significant advancement for Meta in the field of augmented and virtual reality.
The CEO shared this exciting news on both his Facebook and Instagram accounts, telling the world of their new device to bring AR and VR experiences.
(Photo : Meta)
Unlike its predecessors, which focused solely on virtual reality experiences, the Quest 3 leaps forward by incorporating both virtual reality and augmented reality capabilities. This means users will be able to seamlessly switch between immersive virtual worlds and the integration of virtual elements into their real environment.
While Meta has released preliminary details about the Quest 3, including its starting price, more information is expected to be revealed at the upcoming Meta Connect event scheduled for September 27. The Quest 3 is set to hit the shelves later this fall and will be available for purchase at a starting price of $499.99 for the 128 GB headset.
Additional storage options and prices may vary.
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Meta Goes Ahead of Apple with an AR/VR Headset
The timing of Meta's announcement is noteworthy as it comes just ahead of Apple's highly anticipated Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2023. Speculations were rife that Apple would unveil its mixed-reality headset, dubbed the Reality Pro, during the event.
However, Meta's unveiling of the Quest 3 has stolen the limelight and shifted the focus away from Apple's potential announcement.
Mixed-Reality Headset Race
The Quest 3's mixed-reality capabilities open up a world of possibilities for users, allowing them to not only immerse themselves in virtual experiences but also overlay virtual elements onto their real-world surroundings. This has implications across various industries, including gaming, education, entertainment, and productivity.
Past news regarding the Quest 3 did not expect anything behind a mixed-reality device, only a better performing VR that will succeed the Quest 2. Still, Meta is not leaving the Quest 2 in the dust as it will have a performance upgrade and would be offered at a cheaper price of $299.99 for the 128GB device.
With Meta's strong foothold in the social media landscape, it will be interesting to see how Quest 3 integrates with the company's existing platforms, such as Meta's social metaverse, Horizon Worlds.
Meta's ambitious foray into mixed reality with the Quest 3 has set the stage for a new era of immersive experiences, leaving competitors racing to catch up in this rapidly evolving field.
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