Tag: Meta Quest 3S

  • Meta’s Next Headset: Lighter than Quest 3 with External Puck

    Meta’s Next Headset: Lighter than Quest 3 with External Puck

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta launched the Quest 3S Xbox Edition, a themed version of the regular Quest 3S.
    2. The next Meta VR headset will not be a direct successor to the Quest 3 and will move away from the Quest branding.
    3. The upcoming headset is expected to be priced around $800 and may not include controllers.
    4. It will feature higher resolution displays and improved eye and face tracking, while also being lighter than the Quest 3.
    5. Meta plans to release the new headset next year, with a potential Quest 4 following in the subsequent year.


    Earlier this year, Meta launched the Quest 3S Xbox Edition, a special version with an Xbox theme, which is an alternative to the regular Quest 3S (curr. $249 on Amazon). Around the same time, UploadVR reported on information about what was once thought to be the successor to the Quest 3.

    Insights on Future Headsets

    Now, VR expert Nima Zeighami has provided new insights into the future of Meta’s VR headsets and how they will differ from the recent Quest models. According to a post on X, Zeighami claims that Meta does not intend to position its next headset as a direct successor to the Quest 3. In fact, they say that Meta is planning to completely move away from the Quest branding.

    New Branding and Pricing

    Instead, it seems that Meta will finally embrace its full branding, although for the moment, Zeighami is still referring to the device as ‘the next Meta headset.’ As shown in the embedded tweet below, Zeighami mentions that this new headset will likely be priced around $800, and it may not even come with controllers.

    To help balance this cost, Meta is expected to include displays with much higher resolution along with enhanced eye and face tracking. Moreover, the upcoming Meta headset is said to be lighter than the Quest 3, which weighs about 515 g. Meta might achieve this by moving some of the components to an external accessory, often called a ‘puck.’ As it stands, Meta plans to release its next headset next year, with a true Quest 4 potentially arriving the following year.

     

  • Apple Vision 2 Pro VR Headset Leaked with Rumored M5 Upgrade

    Apple Vision 2 Pro VR Headset Leaked with Rumored M5 Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve is expected to reveal the Deckard VR headset soon, while Meta has not released a new headset since the Quest 3S last year.
    2. Apple’s new VR headset, model number A3416, may be launched globally, based on recent FCC documents.
    3. The FCC report focuses on connectivity, indicating that Apple’s headset will use Wi-Fi 6 instead of newer Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7.
    4. A technical drawing suggests Apple’s upcoming headset will have a design similar to the existing Vision Pro, with potential upgrades including the new Apple M5 chipset.
    5. Rumors indicate a price tag of $3,499 for Apple’s VR headset, with a possible launch before the end of the year, but the branding remains uncertain.


    The virtual reality (VR) world is still on the lookout for the much-talked-about Valve Deckard headset, especially after whispers that Valve might reveal it in September. On the other hand, Meta has yet to bring out a new headset since last year when they introduced the Quest 3S, which is currently priced at $299 on Amazon. Furthermore, Vivo launched the Vivo Vision in China over a month ago, but they have not started selling their first VR headset in any way.

    Apple’s New Developments

    Recent documents from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) suggest that Apple could be the next to launch a new VR headset on a global scale. The FCC released some initial details regarding an unreleased Head Mounted Device, which Apple has labeled with the model number A3416.

    Connectivity and Specifications

    As is often the case, the FCC’s report mainly centers on connectivity features rather than other hardware specifications. The body indicates that Apple’s upcoming VR headset will keep Wi-Fi 6 connectivity instead of upgrading to Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7. Interestingly, this situation seems to mirror what we see with the new MacBook Pro laptops.

    The FCC also disclosed a technical drawing of the A3416. The image, shown below, depicts a headset that maintains a similar overall design and hardware to the current Vision Pro. This leads us to believe that the main upgrades to Apple’s Vision Pro will likely revolve around the new Apple M5 chipset, similar to what’s found in the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro series. While there are rumors of a $3,499 price tag and a potential launch before the year wraps up, it’s still unclear if Apple will brand its next VR headset as the Vision Pro or the Vision Pro 2.

    FCC via MacRumors

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  • Get Game Master Sandbox with VR Support Free on August 1

    Get Game Master Sandbox with VR Support Free on August 1

    Key Takeaways

    1. Target Audience: Dungeon Full Dive – Game Master Edition is designed for fans of traditional pen-and-paper RPGs looking to transition to a digital format.

    2. VR and Desktop Modes: The game features complete VR support and a conventional desktop mode, enhancing immersion for players using headsets like the Meta Quest 3S.

    3. Custom Campaigns: The Game Master Edition allows for personalized campaigns, map creation, and player invitations, while the Player Edition is free for participants.

    4. Gameplay Limitations: Players must manually manage game mechanics, such as initiative and combat, leading to critiques about its cumbersome gameplay and user interface.

    5. Pricing and Future: The Game Master Edition is currently priced at $50 but will be free starting August 1, due to TxK Gaming Studios closing down after unsuccessful funding attempts.


    Dungeon Full Dive – Game Master Edition is a creation from the indie game studio Txk Gaming Studios, targeting enthusiasts of traditional pen-and-paper RPGs who wish to transition their gameplay to a digital format. It was launched in Early Access on October 18, 2023, and is exclusively available for the Windows platform. What really makes it stand out is its complete VR support in addition to a conventional desktop mode. By using a headset such as the Meta Quest 3S, which is priced around $450 on Amazon, players can dive into the game from their character’s viewpoint, enhancing the immersive experience.

    Custom Campaigns and Accessibility

    Dungeon Full Dive serves as a venue for personalized pen-and-paper campaigns, whether you’re engaging in Dungeons & Dragons or another gaming system. The Game Master Edition is the premium version that permits GMs to craft sessions, develop intricate 3D environments, and invite players. The “Player Edition” allows others to join these sessions for free. With its integrated editor, game masters can create maps, position miniatures, and maneuver the camera at will. The worldbuilder has received acclaim for its imaginative possibilities and adaptability. Nevertheless, reviews point out certain drawbacks—such as the limited assortment of enemies, items, and miniatures, along with the absence of support for importing custom assets.

    Gameplay Dynamics and User Feedback

    The gameplay in Dungeon Full Dive primarily serves as a visual and immersive tool rather than a fully automated gaming experience. Players must manage initiative, dice rolls, hit points, and combat manually. This is viewed as a significant shortcoming by many, as features like inventory management and automated combat systems are lacking, leading to a somewhat cumbersome game session. The user interface has also been critiqued, particularly by those not using VR. Some players find the controls to be clumsy, mentioning the absence of tutorials and an interface that seems counterintuitive and hard to work with.

    Due to these critiques, the game has garnered a mixed rating of 55% on Steam, with feedback from only 77 reviews. In the end, Dungeon Full Dive is still quite a way from being a fully realized virtual tabletop experience. However, for gamers who appreciate narrative and immersion, it provides a delightful and distinct adventure—and it will soon be entirely free.

    Pricing Changes and Future Developments

    Currently, the Game Master Edition of Dungeon Full Dive is priced at around $50 on Steam, but starting on August 1, it will be available for free download. The motive behind this shift is less than cheerful: TxK Gaming Studios is closing down. Despite their extensive attempts to secure funding, the team was unable to sustain the studio. Although development is coming to an end, the servers will stay active for the time being, with no immediate plans to shut them down.

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  • Sharp Launches Haptic VR Glove and Controller with Texture Sensing

    Sharp Launches Haptic VR Glove and Controller with Texture Sensing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sharp Corporation has introduced a prototype VR haptic glove and controller that simulates textures on fingertips.
    2. The glove features basic controller inputs but does not offer force feedback or fine finger tracking capabilities.
    3. It uses multi-segmented tactile actuators to create vibrations that mimic rough or smooth textures.
    4. The glove is designed to be attached to existing VR controllers for improved precision in use.
    5. The product is still in development, with an uncertain timeline for commercial availability.


    Japan-based Sharp Corporation has recently introduced a prototype for a VR haptic glove and controller designed to create delicate tactile sensations on the fingertips, enabling users to perceive textures in a virtual space. The glove features basic controller inputs, including a joystick and three buttons located between the thumb and forefinger, which could facilitate navigation and interactions within virtual environments.

    Not a Force Feedback Glove

    It’s important to clarify that this is not a force feedback glove that allows users to grasp or sense the shape of objects by providing resistance against the fingers. Instead, the device employs “multi-segmented tactile actuator elements” on each fingertip to simulate rough or smooth textures. These components are essentially electrodes on the transducer surface that send out vibration patterns.

    Limited Finger Tracking Capabilities

    In contrast to other full-glove controllers, this prototype does not offer fine finger tracking, raising questions about how it will utilize the unique texture-sensing abilities of each fingertip. Sharp indicates that they are developing a method to attach the glove to a popular VR controller, like those found with the Meta Quest 3S, which would enhance precision in positioning.

    The glove was initially offered at a price of ¥100,000 (equivalent to $680) for early testers, but pre-registration for this opportunity has now closed. Sharp appears to be striving to reduce development time by involving users from the outset. The company envisions developers incorporating tactile data into VR settings using existing GUI-based image editing software, though they have not provided specific details on this process.

    Uncertain Future of the Product

    As the device is still in both development and testing stages, it remains unclear when, or if, it will become a commercially available product. It is somewhat revealing and possibly concerning that all images on the project page are computer-generated renders rather than actual photographs, but we remain hopeful for its future.

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  • Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition Sale at $399 While Supplies Last

    Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition Sale at $399 While Supplies Last

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Limited Edition headset is priced at $399 and features a unique black and green color scheme.
    2. The bundle includes the headset, Meta Quest Elite head strap, optional glass spacer, limited edition Xbox Controller, Meta’s Touch Plus controllers, and a universal power adapter.
    3. Buyers receive a three-month trial of Meta’s Horizon+ service and a three-month subscription to GamePass Ultimate.
    4. The headset has an OLED display with a resolution of 1832 x 1920 per eye, a 60Hz refresh rate, and a maximum field of view of 186 degrees.
    5. This limited edition product is available while stocks last at Meta’s store, Best Buy (USA), Argos (UK), and EE (UK).


    Following the recent leaks of the retail packaging, the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Limited Edition headset is now priced at $399 while supplies last. This model features the same specifications as the Meta Quest 3S 128GB but comes in a unique black and green color scheme that is exclusive to this edition.

    What’s Included in the Bundle

    For the price of $399, you receive the headset, a Meta Quest Elite head strap, and an optional glass spacer, all packaged together. Additionally, the box contains a limited edition Xbox Controller, Meta’s Touch Plus controllers, and a universal power adapter.

    Subscription Benefits

    You will also get a complimentary three-month trial of Meta’s Horizon+ service, granting you access to games, monthly updates, discounts, and more. Plus, there’s a three-month subscription to GamePass Ultimate included. You can start playing games immediately without needing extra hardware, but if you own an Xbox console, you can stream your entire game library for remote play.

    Hardware Details

    In terms of hardware specs, the headset is equipped with an OLED display that offers a resolution of 1832 x 1920 per eye, with a refresh rate of 60Hz and a maximum field of view (FOV) of 186 degrees. It operates on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor with 8GB of system RAM and features 128GB of internal storage. Expect a battery life that lasts up to 2.5 hours. It currently supports over 100 games from Microsoft’s Xbox library.

    Given that this is a limited edition product, it will only be available while stocks last. For more details, you can visit Meta’s official store page. Besides Meta’s online store, the headset can also be found at Best Buy (USA), Argos (UK), and EE (UK).

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  • Among Us VR Transforms into 3D Game for PC Release

    Among Us VR Transforms into 3D Game for PC Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Among Us 3D is set to launch this year on Steam for PC, with no specific release date yet.
    2. The existing Among Us VR will be rebranded as Among Us 3D, with a new name and logo.
    3. Among Us 3D will feature cross-play between PC gamers and various VR devices, but not with the classic 2D version.
    4. New features in Among Us 3D will include fresh styles, an in-game currency called Stardust, limited-time events, and a new game mode.
    5. A demo of Among Us 3D will be available during Steam Next Fest from February 24th to March 3rd, 2025, but will have limited features and be accessible only to players aged 16 and older.


    If you’ve always had a desire to experience the VR edition of Among Us due to its immersive first-person view but lack a suitable VR headset, you’re in for some great news. Innersloth, the team behind the beloved game, has shared plans to release a 3D version named Among Us 3D.

    Release Information

    While there isn’t a specific release date for Among Us 3D yet, it’s set to launch this year on Steam for PC users. Additionally, Innersloth plans to rebrand the existing Among Us VR, changing its name and logo to Among Us 3D in the next few months. This means players who already have the VR version will notice the new branding upon starting the game.

    Cross-Play Features

    This transformation of the VR edition will enable cross-play capabilities between PC gamers and VR users on devices like the Meta Quest 3S (priced at $299 on Amazon), Steam VR, PlayStation VR 2, and PICO. The classic 2D version will still be available, but it won’t support cross-play with the new 3D version.

    In connection with this announcement, Innersloth has also unveiled a teaser trailer for the upcoming release. Excitingly, the new Among Us 3D will introduce various new features such as fresh styles and cosmetics for the beans, an in-game currency dubbed Stardust, limited-time events, and an entirely new game mode.

    Demo Availability

    Moreover, a demo of the game is set to be showcased during Steam Next Fest. However, it’s important to note that this demo won’t include all the features and modes that will be available when the game officially launches, including cross-play. It will specifically be accessible to players aged 16 and older. The demo will run from February 24th to March 3rd, 2025.

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  • Asus ROG VR Headset Leak: New Details Nearly a Year Later

    Asus ROG VR Headset Leak: New Details Nearly a Year Later

    Almost a year ago, Meta announced that Asus, Lenovo, and Microsoft were collaborating to launch virtual reality (VR) headsets that would run on its Meta Horizon operating system. Since then, however, none of these companies have shared any updates. In the meantime, Meta introduced the Quest 3S as a more affordable option in the VR market, while they have also stopped production of the Quest Pro.

    New Developments in VR

    Recently, there have been fresh rumors circulating about Asus’s debut VR headset, which is reportedly codenamed ‘Tarius’. Sources suggest the device will be marketed under the Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand, which Asus has recently expanded with various new gadgets showcased at CES 2025, including the ROG NUC (2025), ROG Zephyrus G14, ROG Zephyrus G16, and ROG Flow Z13.

    Features and Specifications

    The Asus ROG Tarius is expected to feature eye and face tracking technology, a capability not available in Meta’s Quest 3 and Quest 3S (curr. $299 on Amazon). It appears that Asus is working on several prototypes that utilize different display technologies. There are claims that the ROG Tarius may be equipped with Micro OLED panels, recognized for their impressive pixel density and brightness. Alternatively, it’s possible that QD-LCD panels with local dimming could be used, which would likely make the headset more affordable. However, specific release information is still not available at this time.

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  • Apple Vision Pro Launches in South Korea and UAE

    Apple Vision Pro Launches in South Korea and UAE

    Apple has expanded the limited list of countries where its first Vision Pro headset is available, adding two new locations. However, the price remains high, with it costing 4,990,000 won (around $3,585) in South Korea and 13,999 dirham (about $3,812) in the UAE.

    Ordering and Experience

    Customers can purchase the headset either in Apple Stores or through the company’s official website in these new regions. Future buyers will also have access to the same premium testing and fitting experience that is available in other Vision Pro-approved countries like the United States.

    Software Features

    New owners will benefit from visionOS 2 on their top-tier headset. This latest software update enables users to edit “spatial” videos using Final Cut Pro, transform regular photos from devices like iPhones into spatial (or 3D) images, and perhaps most usefully, utilize the headset as an external display for their Macs.

    Sales Outlook

    It remains uncertain if these new features will help improve the Vision Pro’s current slow sales. Meanwhile, the significantly cheaper (and easier to fix) Meta Quest 3S continues to be available starting at $299 on Amazon.

    Source: Link

  • Disney Launches AI and Augmented Reality Innovation Team

    Disney Launches AI and Augmented Reality Innovation Team

    Founded more than a hundred years ago as the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio, The Walt Disney Company has evolved into a global powerhouse in the entertainment industry. Employing around 225,000 individuals, Disney reported revenues close to $90 billion and a net income exceeding $2.35 billion in 2023. Recently, the company is taking strides forward by creating a division dedicated to new technologies like artificial intelligence and mixed reality.

    New Leadership

    As per a special report from Reuters, “the media giant explores applications across its film, television, and theme park divisions,” thus it’s not surprising that Jamie Voris will head this new division. Voris previously served as Disney’s Chief Technology Officer, overseeing the app development for the Apple Vision Pro mixed reality headset. This newly formed group is called the “Office of Technology Enablement” and, although it starts with a small leadership team, it is expected to grow to around 100 employees fairly soon, according to a source close to Disney.

    Focus on Emerging Technologies

    Different divisions within Disney have been dabbling in AI and augmented reality for some time, but this new team will concentrate solely on these technologies. One promising area for advancement is enhancing augmented reality experiences in theme parks and even in customers’ homes, thanks to the latest lightweight glasses recently launched by Meta and Snap.

    Market Insights

    In 2023, the AR/VR headset market sold 1.7 million units, with Meta accounting for over 60% of those sales. Competitors include big names like Sony, Apple, and ByteDance, which is the parent company of TikTok.

    The Meta Quest 3S 128 GB, bundled with Batman: Arkham Shadow and a three-month trial of Meta Quest+, is currently Amazon’s top-selling item in the Standalone Virtual Reality Headsets category, moving more than 10,000 units in just the past month. It is priced at $299, which includes free shipping and returns.

  • Apple Analyst Reviews Vision VR Headset, Smart Glasses, and AirPods

    Apple Analyst Reviews Vision VR Headset, Smart Glasses, and AirPods

    While the market for virtual reality (VR) headsets hasn’t become widely popular, Meta is working to make it easier for people to get into it by offering lower prices. They have just launched the Quest 3S, which is currently priced at $299 on Amazon, and it will begin shipping tomorrow.

    Shift in Focus

    In addition, Quest has shifted its focus from the Quest Pro, which was much cheaper compared to the Apple Vision Pro, which is still priced at $3,499. A recent report from Mark Gurman indicates that Apple is planning to introduce new VR headsets, starting with a more budget-friendly option that might use a chipset derived from the Apple A series.

    Pricing Strategies

    Moreover, Apple aims to eliminate the hardware needed for EyeSight in the Vision Pro, which could lead to a price drop of over 40% between different models. However, this still means that the next Apple Vision headset could be priced around $2,000. To put it differently, Apple’s ‘more affordable’ VR headset could still be over six times more expensive than Meta’s less costly alternative.

    Future Releases

    Gurman also anticipates that Apple will unveil the Vision Pro 2 in 2026, which will have enhanced performance, and follow it up with the release of its first smart glasses a year later. Reportedly, Apple is also thinking about launching new AirPods that come with built-in cameras, which Gurman suggests is a way to make up for the huge investment in the visual intelligence technology used in the Vision Pro. Ultimately, since 2027 is still quite a while away, these plans could change, and some products might even get put on hold for different initiatives.

    Mark Gurman & Bloomberg, Roméo A & Unsplash – Image credits