Meta Cancels High-End VR Project due to Market Concerns

After the lukewarm response to Apple’s Vision Pro, Meta has decided to scrap its own high-end VR project slated for 2027. While the company had initially planned to create a top-tier device with a similar price tag to Apple’s offering, market concerns prompted them to abandon the endeavor.

One of the significant reasons Meta chose not to move forward with its project was the high cost of OLED microdisplays, which were intended to be used in their upcoming headset. These displays are known for their exceptional performance and quality, but they come with a hefty price tag. Estimates suggest that each display costs around $350, which would translate to approximately $700 per headset.

However, the future looks promising for OLED microdisplay pricing. As new production capacity comes online and industry giants like Samsung and LGD ramp up their manufacturing, it is expected that OLED microdisplay prices will see a significant drop in the near future.

Despite this setback, Meta remains committed to the development of VR headsets and is actively working on other projects. One such example is the Meta Quest 4, set to launch in 2026 at a more affordable price point of around $500. The company has opted to utilize lower-cost LCD displays for this upcoming headset.

It should be noted that Apple, who was also considering OLED microdisplays for its VR devices, has reportedly approached both Samsung and LG for future supply. However, conflicting reports suggest that Apple may have abandoned its plans for a second-generation Vision Pro altogether.

As both the VR and AR markets continue to grow, OLED developers are keenly interested in their importance. To stay informed about the various producers, supply chain companies, and emerging technologies in the OLED industry, our OLED Toolbox offers a valuable resource.

Additional relevant facts:
– Meta is a leading virtual reality (VR) company and was previously known as Facebook Reality Labs.
– The canceled high-end VR project was supposed to be released in 2027.
– Meta’s decision to scrap the project was influenced by the lukewarm response to Apple’s Vision Pro.
– OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) microdisplays were intended for use in Meta’s high-end VR headset.
– The high cost of OLED microdisplays, estimated to be around $350 per display, was one of the main reasons for the project’s cancellation.
– Market concerns about the affordability of the high-end VR device also played a significant role in Meta’s decision.
– Meta is actively working on other VR projects, such as the Meta Quest 4, which is expected to launch in 2026 with a lower price point of around $500.
– Meta opted to use lower-cost LCD displays for the Meta Quest 4 instead of OLED microdisplays.
– Apple, who initially considered OLED microdisplays for their VR devices, has approached Samsung and LG for future supply.
– Conflicting reports suggest that Apple may have abandoned its plans for a second-generation Vision Pro.
– The VR and AR (Augmented Reality) markets are experiencing significant growth.
– OLED developers are interested in staying informed about producers, supply chain companies, and emerging technologies in the OLED industry.

Key questions and answers:
1. Why did Meta cancel its high-end VR project?
Meta decided to cancel the project due to market concerns and the high cost of OLED microdisplays intended for the headset.

2. What is the estimated cost of each OLED microdisplay?
Each OLED microdisplay is estimated to cost around $350.

3. Is Meta still working on other VR projects?
Yes, Meta remains committed to VR development and is actively working on projects like the Meta Quest 4, which is expected to launch in 2026.

Key challenges or controversies associated with the topic:
– The affordability of high-end VR devices remains a challenge for VR companies like Meta.
– The competition in the VR market, especially with major players like Apple, can create controversies and impact market strategies.
– The reliance on expensive components, such as OLED microdisplays, can limit the feasibility of high-end VR projects.

Advantages:
– High-quality OLED microdisplays offer exceptional performance and visual experience in VR headsets.
– As future production capacities increase and industry giants ramp up manufacturing, OLED microdisplay prices are expected to decrease, making them more accessible for VR devices.

Disadvantages:
– The high cost of OLED microdisplays can significantly increase the price of VR headsets, potentially limiting their market appeal.
– The availability of OLED microdisplays might be limited, especially when major companies like Apple approach suppliers for their VR devices.

Related links:
– OLED-Info
– OLED Executive Summit