Earlier today, Meta CEO Markerburg introduced the Quest 3, their newest MR/VR headset, during the keynote on day one of his company’s two-day virtual event Meta Connect 2023.
Price and Models
The Quest 3 is priced at $399 for the 128GB model and $499 for the 512GB model.
Bundled Offers and Eligibility
According to Meta’s press release, for a limited time, Quest 3 purchases will include a bundle with “Asgard’s Wrath 2,” a game valued at $59.99. The 512GB model will also feature a six-month trial of Meta Quest+. Both offers are subject to eligibility and auto-renewal terms.
Advanced Mixed Reality Capabilities
The Quest 3 aims to offer a spectrum of mixed reality experiences, allowing users to engage with both virtual and physical worlds simultaneously. The device features high-fidelity, full-color Passthrough technology, which provides a detailed view of the user’s physical environment. The device can automatically map spaces and recognize elements like walls and furniture, allowing for interactive experiences that blend the virtual and physical worlds. Users can play a virtual piano on their coffee table or open a portal to another dimension in their living room. The device can also map your space and interact with elements like walls and furniture, allowing for experiences like throwing a virtual ball in a game and watching it bounce off your actual wall.
User Experience and Interface
Upon wearing the headset, users are greeted with a full-color Passthrough view, enabling them to choose their level of immersion. A double-tap on the side of the headset allows for a seamless transition between fully immersive and blended reality environments, overlaying virtual elements on physical surroundings.
Performance Metrics
The Quest 3 is the first device to feature the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform, developed in collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies. This new platform reportedly doubles the graphic processing power of the Quest 2 and offers fast load times and detailed visuals in games like “Red Matter 2” and “The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners.”
Extensive App and Game Library
Meta plans to introduce over 100 new and upgraded titles for the Quest 3 by the end of 2023. The device is also backwards-compatible with Quest 2, providing access to an existing library of over 500 immersive games and experiences. Xbox Cloud Gaming will also be available on the Quest 3 starting in December. Specific experiences like “Drop Dead: The Cabin” and “First Encounters” are also highlighted.
Display and Optics
The device features a 4K+ Infinite Display, achieving a nearly 30% leap in resolution compared to the Quest 2. It also introduces a next-gen pancake lens optical stack, resulting in a 40% slimmer optic profile. The display offers 25 pixels per degree and 1,218 pixels per inch. The optical design allows for an eye box that covers a wider range of interpupillary distances (IPDs), ranging from 53 to 75 mm.
Customization and Comfort
The Quest 3 offers a redesigned, thinner profile with a more customizable fit. It also introduces multiple color options for the facial interface and straps. The device features a lens distance adjustment wheel and an innovative optical design that accommodates a wider range of interpupillary distances. It also has a soft adjustable strap design that accommodates glasses, different hairstyles, and face shapes.
Audio and Entertainment
The Quest 3 offers enhanced spatial audio capabilities, with a 40% louder audio range compared to the Quest 2. It also provides enhanced sound clarity and bass performance for a more immersive experience. The device offers a nearly 15% wider field of view and features a social co-watching experience.
Setup and Accessories
The device is designed for easy setup through a mobile device and offers a range of accessories for added comfort and personalization. The Quest 3 understands your environment and automatically handles the boundary of your play space. A new slate of “Made for Meta” licensed accessories is also in the works, including Zenni® VR Prescription Lenses and Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeed earbuds.
Availability
The Quest 3 is available for pre-order in 23 countries and from select retailers, including Target and Walmart in the US, Best Buy in the US and Canada, Argos and Currys in the UK, FNAC/DARTY in France, ALTERNATE and MediaMarkt in Germany, Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera in Japan, and Amazon in all of the above markets.
Featured Image via Meta
