In an effort to bring its planned virtual reality platform Metaverse closer to actual reality, Meta is launching a new headset designed to handle similar tasks to work computers.
Available from October 25 for just under $1,500, the Meta Quest Pro could become an everyday household and office device replacing the phones, tablets and laptops people use today, Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg said at the company’s Connect conference on Tuesday.
Meta, whose long-term bet on VR has yet failed to bear fruit since its purchase of VR headset pioneer Oculus, says the lightweight mixed-reality device is designed to bring “physical and digital worlds one giant step closer together.”
The use of mixed reality – as opposed to pure virtual reality – means wearers will be able to see their office or home surroundings, with virtual work screens projected into their field of vision.
With a curved battery on the rear, the Meta Quest Pro is set to feel less front-heavy than other VR headsets, while Meta promises a slim front with sharper visuals.
The company says outward-facing cameras capture four times as many pixels as its Meta Quest 2 headset.
Zuckerberg also announced plans to expand the company’s VR ambitions with the help of Microsoft, and CEO Satya Nadella said Windows apps and Microsoft Teams would work with Meta’s “virtual office” of Horizon Workrooms. This virtual meeting room and workplace is set to offer features like a whiteboard and sticky notes that can be seen by all colleagues. ©dpa Deutsche Presse-Agentur GmbH
