Meta focuses on cheaper Quest models and stops work on competitor Apple Vision Pro | Tech News
Meta is reportedly planning to launch a cheaper version of its latest mixed reality headset, the Meta Quest 3. The new model, expected to be called the Quest 3S, could be announced at the Meta Connect event scheduled for September 25 and 26.
The Meta Quest 3, launched in June last year, had sparked rumors of a Lite model. Bloomberg reports that Meta could lower the price of the headset by selling the controller separately. However, buying the controller and headset separately could bring the total cost closer to that of the Quest 3. It’s possible that the Quest 3S will come with controllers, but they may be different from those offered with the Quest 3.
According to Bloomberg, Meta could also introduce AR glasses called Orion, which would follow a similar concept to the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.
In addition, according to The Information, Meta has abandoned plans for a mixed reality headset that would compete with the Apple Vision Pro.
The headset, scheduled for launch in 2027 and internally named La Jolla, was expected to feature micro-OLED displays similar to those of the Vision Pro. Following a product review meeting, Meta instructed its Reality Labs staff to stop working on the device. The decision may have been influenced by the Vision Pro’s disappointing market performance.
However, Apple is focused on launching a cheaper, less-featured headset aimed at the iPhone’s high-end price range.
The Information further reports that Meta has stopped producing the Quest Pro in 2023 due to poor reviews and low sales. However, the company is continuing to develop the Quest 4, a successor to the Quest 3, which is expected to launch in 2026.
First published: 26 August 2024 | 11:04 am IS
