The Meta Quest 3: Features & Implications for the Quest Pro
In the rapidly evolving sphere of VR, anticipation runs high as we await the unveiling of the - the Meta Quest 3. Promising advancements and improvements on their mixed reality features, this upcoming release by Meta looms on the Horizon with a speculated release date of September 2023. Particularly intriguing are speculations of how these enhancements may put the future of the higher-tier Meta Quest Pro under the microscope.
Meta Quest 3
Projected Features of Meta Quest 3
The Meta Quest 3, starting at $499, is designed to offer full compatibility with all existing Meta Quest 2 games, ensuring an uninterrupted gaming experience for users upgrading from the previous model. The hardware improvements are considerable, with double the processing power, superior resolution, and a 40% slimmer design compared to its predecessor. Enhanced controllers and a full-color mixed reality passthrough feature further elevate the user experience.
The mixed reality passthrough is particularly noteworthy, as it leverages the headset's cameras and depth sensors to allow users to view their physical surroundings, integrating virtual elements with the actual environment seamlessly.
In terms of processing power, Meta has stated that the Quest 3 will be "our most powerful headset yet," outperforming even the pricier Quest Pro. This could be due to the anticipated next-gen Snapdragon chip in the Quest 3, likely the XR2 Gen 2, compared to the Snapdragon XR2 in the Quest Pro.
Meta Quest Pro: Enough extra features to fork out the extra $500?
Distinct Features of Meta Quest Pro
While the Meta Quest 3 comes packed with impressive capabilities, the Quest Pro has its unique advantages. The standout differences lie primarily in the realm of tracking. The Quest Pro boasts eye and face tracking, which are absent in the Quest 3. Additionally, the Pro model features ten advanced virtual and mixed reality sensors supporting six degrees of freedom inside-out tracking.
It's also worth noting that both the Quest 3 and Quest Pro offer full-color passthrough, ensuring an augmented reality experience irrespective of the model chosen.
Meta Quest 3 promises to bring full-colour Mixed Reality features like the Quest Pro.
Future Implications for Meta Quest Pro
Even with the Quest 3's promising features, the Quest Pro is not being left behind. Meta has announced a significant performance boost through a software update for both the Quest 2 and Quest Pro. Specifically, the Quest Pro can expect up to a 26% CPU increase and up to an 11% GPU hike.
The entry of the Quest 3 into the market could potentially impact the Quest Pro's relevance. However, it seems Meta is making strategic decisions to retain the Pro's value, particularly for users who value advanced tracking features.
Navigating the Future with Meta Quest 3
The upcoming release of the Meta Quest 3 is an important development in the VR industry. If it delivers on its potential for mixed reality at a more accessible price, it could significantly change the VR market for both users and developers.
With these anticipated capabilities, the future of the Meta Quest Pro is uncertain. Only time will tell how Meta chooses to position the two devices and what impact this will have on the VR industry. The release of the Meta Quest 3, however, indicates continued progress in VR technology & offers exciting development in terms of Mixed Reality content creation becoming more accessible.