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In keeping with the ambitious goal of dominating the mainstream metaverse, Meta introduces the most advanced VR headset yet, the Meta Quest Pro.
Formerly codenamed Project Cambria, Meta has unveiled its highly anticipated mixed reality headset, the Meta Quest Pro. The sleek and intricate piece of hardware made its debut earlier this month at the company’s annual Connect conference before arriving in stores on October 25.
The Quest Pro marks Zuckerberg’s foray into the high-end VR hardware market, retailing for $1,499. Meta may be trying to recoup some of the billions it has invested in its Reality Labs unit. Last year, the Reality Labs division lost Meta $10.2 billion, and it has already lost the company more than 5 billion dollars in 2022.
The main advantage of the Meta Quest Pro over the comparatively cheaper Quest 2 is its advanced mixed reality capabilities. A more expansive lens design utilizing pass-through cameras allows Quest Pro users to see the Real world in their peripheral vision. Meaning they don’t have to remove their headphones to complete daily tasks.
Using Quest Pro for work streamlines multitasking by allowing multiple screens to be open simultaneously. Users can view the screen’s side by side or switch between them. Those looking for the feel of a traditional VR experience can attach light blockers to the sides of the headset for added immersion.
Inward-facing cameras lend themselves to rendering a user’s face with pinpoint accuracy. Every movement, from raising eyebrows to smiling to chewing, can be translated into a virtual reality avatar. The Quest Pro 2 mimics natural facial expressions, so you can be fully present in meetings and gatherings with friends and bring your true personality to life in virtual reality, according to the company.
Meta has also swapped out its older drivers for new auto-tracking drivers that provide haptic feedback. Unlike previous Rift and Quest controllers, the new controllers do not require tracking rings or cameras on the headset to work, giving the user 360-degree control. The new controllers are compatible with previous Quest models.
A Snapdragon XR2+ processor gives the Quest Pro 50% more processing power than the Quest 2, along with more pixels per inch and 75% higher contrast. The Quest Pro has double the Quest memory at 12GB compared to the previous 6GB.
Instead of targeting gamers, Quest Pro advertises as a tool to increase productivity among creatives, freelancers, and in the office. In his announcement, Mark Zuckerberg described the Quest Pro as «a high-end device designed for work and people who want the best experience we can have in VR today.»
Meta’s Quest Pro will be available for purchase starting October 25.
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