Tag: mixed reality headset

  • Meta Quest 3S Launches at Meta Connect for $299 Starting Price

    Meta Quest 3S Launches at Meta Connect for $299 Starting Price

    The highly anticipated Meta Quest 3S MR headset has been officially revealed at Meta Connect 2024. This new headset serves as an affordable option, ideal for those exploring mixed reality for the first time or looking to upgrade from their Meta Quest or Meta Quest 2.

    Specifications and Features

    The Meta Quest 3S is equipped with the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip, which is also found in the pricier Quest 3 headset (currently available on Amazon for $649). Unlike the Quest 3, it does not feature pancake lenses; instead, it utilizes Fresnel lenses with a slightly narrower field of view. A significant advantage is that it offers the full color Passthrough functionality similar to the Quest 3, accessible via a dedicated “Action Button” for toggling between passthrough and immersive experiences.

    With a resolution of 1832 x 1920 and refresh rates of 90Hz and 120Hz, the Quest 3S boasts a horizontal field of view of 96° and a vertical field of view of 90°. It includes 8GB of RAM and options for either 128GB or 256GB of storage. The device features a 4,324mAh battery, which, while smaller than the Quest 3’s 5,060mAh battery, still allows for up to 2.5 hours of usage, slightly better than the Quest 3’s 2.2 hours.

    Compatibility and Accessories

    Meta has ensured that the Quest 3S is compatible with several accessories from the Quest 3 lineup, including the Elite Strap, Elite Strap with Battery, Carrying Case, Compact Carrying Case, Link cable, controller-specific Charging Dock, and Active Straps. Additionally, it will come with an exclusive Breathable Facial Interface designed to keep users cool during vigorous gaming sessions or workouts.

    The Meta Quest 3S is now available for pre-order, with a release date set for October 15. The price for the 128GB version is $299.99, while the 256GB version is priced at $399.99. Both versions include a pair of Touch Plus controllers.

    Special Offers

    From now until April 30, 2025, every order of the Quest 3S will include a complimentary copy of Batman: Arkham Shadow, a game exclusive to the Quest 3 and Quest 3S, launching on October 22, 2024. Additionally, Meta will provide a free three-month subscription to Meta Quest+.


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  • Introducing TikTok’s Apple Vision Pro Native App: A Sleek and Impressive Interface

    Introducing TikTok’s Apple Vision Pro Native App: A Sleek and Impressive Interface

    TikTok has recently launched a new app for Apple’s Vision Pro headset, bringing the popular video platform into the realm of augmented reality. This move allows users to enjoy TikTok in a way that is familiar yet takes full advantage of the capabilities of the Vision Pro.

    The Familiar Layout with Additional Windows

    The app’s layout closely resembles the mobile version, complete with videos playing vertically and buttons for liking, commenting, and sharing. However, TikTok has optimized the layout for the Vision Pro, making it easier to view comments and creator information without obstructing the video.

    Designed for the Vision Pro

    TikTok had previously announced its plans to develop an app specifically for the Vision Pro. The app is designed to allow users to watch videos either with a view of the real world or in a completely virtual space, such as on the moon. Additionally, it is designed to seamlessly integrate with other apps on the headset.

    A Cautionary Approach from Streaming Giants

    While TikTok is diving headfirst into augmented reality, other major streaming platforms are taking a more cautious approach. Disney, for example, fully supports Vision Pro users by offering movies in 3D. Similarly, Amazon Prime Video has also joined the bandwagon. However, Netflix and YouTube have chosen to stick to the basics, suggesting users watch through the browser. Although, YouTube might consider developing an app for the Vision Pro in the future.

  • Sony Unveils Maker-Focused Mixed Reality Headset

    Sony Unveils Maker-Focused Mixed Reality Headset

    Sony Introduces Spatial Content Creation System at CES 2024

    Sony has unveiled its most recent innovation at CES 2024 – a spatial content creation system tailored for individuals in the realm of 3D design and animation. In contrast to its PlayStation VR equivalent, this headset-and-controller duo is not targeted at gamers but at professionals necessitating precision and intricacy in their endeavors.

    Enhanced Displays and Robust Platform

    The innovative Sony headset showcases high-resolution 4K OLED screens, operated by the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 platform. This amalgamation assures that professionals can relish a genuinely engrossing encounter with top-notch image quality and clarity.

    Bridging the Divide Between Virtual and Physical Domains

    Kenichiro Yoshida, Sony’s CEO, accentuated the system’s capacity to amalgamate virtual elements with physical environments, broadening the scope of creation. This fusion is enabled through a special controller arrangement. Instead of conventional joysticks, the system incorporates a finger-worn ring and a handheld pointer. These instinctive tools emulate natural gestures, empowering creators to maneuver virtual objects seamlessly, almost as if they were physically present in the space.

    Smooth Transition to Reality

    In instances where users require a hiatus from the virtual realm, Sony offers a solution. The front section of the headset can be flipped up, facilitating users to effortlessly transit back to the physical world. This adaptability guarantees that creators can uphold a connection with their surroundings while still savoring the immersive advantages of the virtual workplace.

    Pioneering 3D Innovation

    Sony is no novice to the domain of 3D innovation. Their prior Spatial Reality Display acquainted users with this technology; however, the new system escalates it a notch higher. It integrates "proprietary rendering technology" that furnishes real-time, high-definition textures and authentic character expressions. This meticulous attention to detail vows to transform the process of 3D modeling and visualization.

    Launch Date and Rivalry

    While Sony has not revealed the precise launch date and cost of their system, they have affirmed that it will be accessible later this year. It will contend with Apple’s Vision Pro, slated to debut in stores next month. Nevertheless, Sony’s emphasis on professional creators and user-friendly controls may confer them an advantage in this budding market.

  • Huawei Challenges Apple’s Vision Pro with its Mixed Reality Headset.

    Huawei Challenges Apple’s Vision Pro with its Mixed Reality Headset.

    Report: Huawei Allegedly Developing High-End Mixed Reality Headset

    Rumors indicate that Huawei is currently developing its own mixed reality (MR) headset to rival Apple’s Vision Pro. This forthcoming wearable is projected to be a premium model akin to Apple’s device.

    Augmented Immersion via Top-Tier Processor

    The chatter suggests that Huawei’s MR headset will house a top-tier chipset, promising users a heightened level of immersion and fluidity. One of the main challenges in such gadgets is heat dissipation, a problem Huawei supposedly plans to tackle by incorporating a robust cooling system.

    Supplemental Battery Component

    Insiders disclosed that Huawei’s MR headset will possess an external battery attachment, mirroring the setup of Apple’s Vision Pro. Nevertheless, additional specifics about the device have not been divulged. Interestingly, rumors abound that Huawei’s former subsidiary, Honor, might be venturing into the mixed reality headset realm as well. This hints at a concerted effort by Chinese brands to penetrate the premium wearables sector in order to mount a stronger challenge against Apple.

    Unverified Reports

    It should be noted that these accounts are presently unverified, so it is advised to approach this information with caution. Critical details such as the launch date, specifications, and functionalities of the Huawei MR headset remain undisclosed. Nonetheless, if the objective is to compete with Apple’s Vision Pro, Huawei’s offering could potentially be more affordably priced compared to Apple’s $3,500 model.

    Final Thoughts

    Although information about Huawei’s mixed reality headset is somewhat scant, the grapevine indicates that the Chinese tech company is eyeing entry into the high-end wearable market. Armed with a flagship-grade chipset and a focus on managing thermal concerns, Huawei’s MR headset may deliver an enriched immersive experience for users. Stay tuned for further updates on this potential rival to Apple’s Vision Pro.

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  • Apple Vision Pro Set to Launch in March 2024, Global Availability Postponed Until 2025

    Apple Vision Pro Set to Launch in March 2024, Global Availability Postponed Until 2025

    Apple Vision Pro to be Released in March 2024

    Apple introduced its mixed reality headset named Apple Vision Pro at an event last June. Unlike the company’s other products, the device did not immediately go on sale after the event. Instead, Apple announced that the headset, which combines virtual and augmented reality, would be available for purchase in 2024. Now, the exact release date has been revealed. Here are the details…

    Mark Gurman Reveals Release Date

    If you’re a tech enthusiast and a dedicated follower of TechHere, you’ve likely heard the name Mark Gurman. Gurman, especially knowledgeable about Apple, frequently reveals details about the company’s products that others may not know. Now, he has come forward with a claim about Apple Vision Pro. According to him, the much-anticipated mixed reality headset will first be available for purchase in the United States in March 2024.

    Delayed Release

    However, this was not Apple’s original plan. The company intended to release the product in January. Unfortunately, some issues in the supply chain and longer-than-expected testing disrupted these plans. As a result, the release of Apple Vision Pro was delayed by two months. So, when will the mixed reality headset be available for purchase in the rest of the World?

    Global Availability

    According to Gurman’s research, the device will be available for purchase in Canada and the United Kingdom by the end of 2024. Unfortunately, its release in the rest of the world will extend until the last months of 2025. Of course, queues for the $3,500 Apple product may not form in many countries. Still, such limited availability may not be well-received by users.

    Affordable Model in the Pipeline

    However, waiting until 2025 may not be as bad as it sounds. It is already known that Apple is working on a kind of affordable Vision Pro model. This model is expected to be released no later than the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026. This way, users can have a product with very similar features at a much lower cost.

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