Meta launched the Meta Quest 3 mixed reality headset at the Meta Connect 2023 event.
The Meta Quest 3 comes with an LCD screen with a resolution of 2064 x 2208 for each eye, offering a visual experience that is tenfold richer than its predecessor, Meta Quest 2. The pixel density is so high that it promises to immerse users in an unprecedented level of detail and depth.
Driving this visual spectacle is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, a processor engineered specifically for VR and AR devices. The chip not only effortlessly manages the increased pixel count but also delivers a 50% boost in graphical performance compared to the previous model.
The Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 also introduces 5G connectivity, a first for the Quest series. However, this focus on high performance and connectivity comes at the expense of battery life. According to official sources, the device will last approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes on a full charge.
The Meta Quest 3 is not confined to the boundaries of virtual reality. Thanks to its new external cameras, the device can project real-world surroundings onto its screen, thus offering a mixed reality experience. This allows for an interactive experience that seamlessly blends the digital and physical worlds — imagine floating windows overlaying your real-world view, much like Apple’s Vision Pro.
And when it comes to audio, the device offers a new level of spatial audio with enhanced sound clarity and bass performance, providing a 40% louder audio range than the Quest 2.
Weighing in at 515 grams, the Meta Quest 3 is slightly heavier than its predecessor. However, Meta assures that comfort is not compromised, thanks to a redesigned headband and a soft rubber surface that makes contact with the area around the eyes.
Scheduled to hit the market on October 10, the Meta Quest 3 is already open for pre-orders. With a starting price of $499 for the 128GB version and $649 for the 512GB variant, this headset is poised to become a household name in mixed reality experiences.
