Apple Reportedly Developing Lower-Cost VR Headset with Narrower Field of View
Apple is said to be working on a new VR headset, codenamed N107, that will have a lower price point compared to their current offerings. The headset, which is expected to be released by the end of 2025, is rumored to cost between $1,500 and $2,000. To cut costs, Apple may compromise on features such as a smaller field of view and a possible dependence on a connected Mac or iPhone. Additionally, reports suggest that a successor to the Vision Pro headset is also in development, but its release is not expected until at least the end of 2026.
Meta Quest 3 Estimated to Have Sold Over One Million Units
Statistics indicate that at least one million units of the Meta Quest 3 VR headset have been sold. This figure is based on the number of users who have completed the Quest 3-exclusive tutorial “First Encounters”. Considering that not all buyers may have played the tutorial, the actual sales figure is likely even higher.
Sold Out Meta Quest 2 Hints at Impending Sequel
Meta Quest 2 has reportedly sold out in many countries, hinting at the possibility of a sequel in the near future. Rumors suggest that Meta is working on a new VR headset named “Meta Quest 3S” that will offer similar features to the Quest 3 but at a lower price point. The device is rumored to be released later this year.
Inseye Developing Eye-Tracking Upgrade Module for Meta Quest Headsets
New York-based start-up Inseye is developing an upgrade module called “Inseye Lumi” that adds eye-tracking functionality to Meta Quest 2 and 3 headsets. The module utilizes a combination of infrared emitters and photo sensors to enable eye-tracking capabilities with lower energy consumption and a high sampling rate. The module is primarily targeted towards PC VR use and is expected to be priced at around $160.
Meta Quest Receives Update Allowing for Flexible Window Layout
The latest System Update v67 for Meta Quest introduces a new window layout feature that allows users to freely arrange multiple windows within their virtual environment. This update, available for both Quest 3 and Quest 2, enables users to have up to three additional windows alongside the existing three docked windows. Videos showcasing the new layout have been released, demonstrating the increased flexibility and productivity options for Meta Quest users.
Meta Introduces Official Tool for Manual Quest Headset Updates
Meta has developed a web tool that enables users to manually update their Quest headsets to the latest system version. This tool is intended to assist users in resolving software-related issues if automatic updates fail. To use the tool, users need a computer with at least 2 GB of free storage space and a USB-C cable. This new update tool provides users with greater control over their Quest headset software updates and helps ensure a seamless user experience.
Gamescom 2024 to Feature a Dedicated XR “Megabooth”
Gamescom 2024 will showcase a large XR booth called “Home of XR”, operated by several well-known VR studios including Vertigo Games, nDreams, Fast Travel Games, Soul Assembly, Combat Waffle Studios, and Beyond Frames Entertainment. The booth will feature recently unveiled and upcoming VR titles scheduled for release in late 2024, providing a platform for developers to showcase their latest immersive experiences. Visitors to Gamescom 2024 can look forward to exciting VR gaming and the opportunity to try out cutting-edge XR technologies.
Important questions:
1. What is the expected price range of Apple’s rumored VR headset?
2. What compromises might Apple make to lower the cost of the VR headset?
3. When is the expected release date for Apple’s VR headset?
4. Is Apple also working on a successor to the Vision Pro headset?
5. How many units of the Meta Quest 3 VR headset have been sold?
6. Is a sequel to the Meta Quest 2 VR headset in development?
7. What is Inseye developing for Meta Quest 2 and 3 headsets?
8. What new feature does the latest System Update v67 introduce for Meta Quest headsets?
9. What tool has Meta developed for manual Quest headset updates?
10. What will the “Home of XR” booth at Gamescom 2024 showcase?
Answers:
1. The rumored price range for Apple’s VR headset is between $1,500 and $2,000.
2. To lower the cost, Apple may compromise on features such as a smaller field of view and a possible dependence on a connected Mac or iPhone.
3. Apple’s VR headset is expected to be released by the end of 2025.
4. Yes, Apple is reportedly working on a successor to the Vision Pro headset, but its release is not expected until at least the end of 2026.
5. At least one million units of the Meta Quest 3 VR headset have been sold.
6. There are rumors of a sequel to the Meta Quest 2 VR headset named “Meta Quest 3S” that will offer similar features at a lower price point.
7. Inseye is developing an upgrade module called “Inseye Lumi” that adds eye-tracking functionality to Meta Quest 2 and 3 headsets.
8. The latest System Update v67 for Meta Quest introduces a new window layout feature, allowing users to freely arrange multiple windows within their virtual environment.
9. Meta has developed a web tool that enables users to manually update their Quest headsets to the latest system version, providing greater control over software updates.
10. The “Home of XR” booth at Gamescom 2024 will showcase recently unveiled and upcoming VR titles from various VR studios.
Advantages of Apple’s rumored VR headset:
– Lower price point compared to their current offerings.
– Potential integration with existing Apple products like Mac and iPhone.
– Potential advancements in technology and user experience.
Disadvantages of Apple’s rumored VR headset:
– Smaller field of view compared to other VR headsets.
– Possible dependency on a connected device for full functionality.
– Higher price range compared to some competitors.
Key challenges or controversies associated with the topic:
– Balancing cost and quality to bring a more affordable VR headset to the market.
– Addressing potential limitations or compromises in features compared to higher-end VR headsets.
– Competition with existing VR headset manufacturers in terms of price, features, and user experience.
