In today’s Meta Connect Keynote, we finally received more information about the highly anticipated Meta Quest 3 mixed-reality headset. With a strong emphasis on bringing mixed reality gaming and productivity to the masses, Meta has taken a significant step forward with the Quest 3, delivering impressive performance enhancements compared to its predecessor, the Meta Quest 2.
During the keynote presentation, Meta unveiled several exciting features of the Quest 3. One major announcement was the integration of Xbox Cloud Gaming support, enabling users to stream Xbox Game Pass games onto a virtual screen displayed on any surface, such as a dinner table, using a Bluetooth controller. This integration opens up a whole new world of gaming possibilities for Quest 3 users.
Unleashing the Power of Compatibility
The Quest 3 boasts enhanced connectivity options, with support for Air Link and the ability to connect to a PC using a Quest Link Cable. This means users will have access to SteamVR games and enjoy backward compatibility with Quest 2 VR games and AR apps. The headset offers impressive visual quality, with a resolution of 2064 x 2208 per eye on pancake lenses, similar to the Quest Pro, and a refresh rate of 90Hz. Additionally, users have the option to experiment with a 120Hz refresh rate, pushing the boundaries of visual immersion.
One of the standout features of the Quest 3 is its pair of RGB color passthrough cameras and depth projector. These features enable users to seamlessly interact with the real world without needing to remove the headset. Whether it’s checking your phone or ensuring you don’t stumble down the stairs, the Quest 3’s augmented reality capabilities provide a level of convenience and safety that sets it apart from other headsets in the market.
Powering the Quest 3 is the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, which Meta claims offers double the GPU processing power for faster load times. During the keynote, a side-by-side comparison of Walking Dead: Saints and Sinners being played on both the Quest 2 and Quest 3 clearly showcased the latter’s superior performance, with improved draw distances and faster load times. This advancement in processing power ensures a smooth and immersive gaming experience.
Utilizing the passthrough camera, the Quest 3 digitally maps the user’s surroundings. This enables mixed-reality games like Stranger Things to overlay virtual assets onto the physical world, such as opening portals in your living room or placing digital trophies in a virtual trophy case. This integration of augmented reality with gaming creates a truly interactive and captivating experience.
The Quest 3 features a redesigned controller that eliminates the tracking ring, resulting in a slimmer form factor. Additionally, the headset itself weighs approximately 515 grams, and Meta claims it has a 40% slimmer optic profile, enhancing overall comfort during extended usage.
Meta states that the Quest 3 delivers an average of 2.2 hours of battery life. For convenience, Meta offers a separate charging dock that wirelessly charges both the headset and controllers for $150. However, users can also opt to use regular AA batteries for the controllers.
Looking ahead, Meta has plans to launch a suite of productive apps specifically geared towards enterprise use. These apps aim to provide companies with the tools to transition from traditional physical workspaces to virtual environments, opening up new avenues for collaboration and productivity.
Pre-Order Details
Excited consumers can pre-order the Quest 3 starting at $500 for the 128GB version, while the 512GB model will be available for $650. The official shipping of the Quest 3 will commence on October 10. To sweeten the deal, each Quest 3 will come with a complimentary copy of Ashard’s Wrath 2, a fantasy FPS melee adventure game.
As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the Quest 3 for review, it is important to note that this article merely scratches the surface of its capabilities. Stay tuned for our in-depth analysis, where we will thoroughly explore and compare the Quest 3 with its predecessor, the Quest 2. With the Quest 2 currently reigning as our favorite VR headset, the Meta Quest 3 has some large shoes to fill.
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