Meta introduces its most affordable mixed reality headset

During the recent Connect event, Meta unveiled the Meta Quest 3S, a headset that promises the same mixed reality features and performance as the Meta Quest 3 at a more affordable price. The Quest 3S is positioned as an entry-level headset for those new to mixed reality experiences and as an economical upgrade for existing Quest and Quest 2 users.

Building on the success of the Meta Quest 3, the Quest 3S inherits and enhances the full-colour Passthrough capabilities, enabling users to blend virtual and real-world environments for immersive experiences. Moreover, Meta has significantly improved the Quest ecosystem in 2024, which will benefit the Quest 3S upon its release.

Some of these improvements include the updates made to the Meta Horizon OS for spatial computing. That includes enhanced support for 2D applications like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram and improvements to spatial audio and Passthrough colour and contrast to deliver a more engaging mixed reality experience. Additionally, the introduction of Travel Mode allows users to utilize the Quest even while in transit, with plans to expand this feature to train travel.

The Meta Quest 3S is compatible with Meta's extensive library of applications and games, including exclusive titles like Batman: Arkham Shadow (included with the headset). Performance enhancements for Quest 3-specific games will also benefit Quest 3S users, offering improved graphics and faster load times.

In conjunction with the Quest 3S launch, Meta has also reduced the 512 GB Meta Quest 3 price to £409.99/$499.99/€479.99. As for the Meta Quest 3S, it will come for £289.99/$299.99/€329.99.

KitGuru says: If you were waiting for a cheaper VR headset to jump on the VR bandwagon, the Meta Quest 3S might be precisely what you were waiting for.

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