Oct 14, 2024 4:15:00 PM

Meta Quest 3S: Cheaper, is it nearly as good as the Quest 3?

Explore the new Meta Quest 3S, a more affordable VR headset alternative. Discover if the lower price affects its performance compared to the original Quest 3.

Is Meta Working on the Meta Quest 3S?

The VR market is abuzz with speculation surrounding Meta's upcoming headset, the Meta Quest 3S , as evidence mounts for its anticipated launch. Major vendors like Meta and Apple have long maintained a veil of secrecy about their upcoming products, igniting widespread speculation and leaks among tech enthusiasts. The excitement surrounding the Quest 3S has only intensified, particularly in light of recent developments.

Earlier this year, The Verge reported on a leaked internal meeting at Meta where the Vice President for VR mentioned a new “accessible headset” slated for release in 2024. This statement sparked interest and speculation, meaning the Meta Quest 3S is potentially an affordable alternative in the competitive VR landscape.

In late May, a slip on the Meta app store hinted at the headset's name, identifying the Quest 3S as compatible with a VR yoga app. This clue, coupled with various tech enthusiasts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) sharing renders and design concepts, suggests that the headset's unveiling is imminent.

A major leak surfaced from 91 Mobile in September, which disclosed information from an FCC filing about the Meta Quest 3S. While the filing didn't provide exhaustive specifications, it did confirm the inclusion of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6E, essential for fast performance and seamless connections during immersive gaming experiences. This FCC certification bolsters the belief that the Quest 3S is indeed on the way, and it may offer mixed reality features that could enhance the VR experience for users.

The recent price drop of the Meta Quest 2 signals that Meta may be clearing out inventory in anticipation of the new headset. As the launch date approaches, these developments indicate that the Quest 3S could provide an affordable option within the VR market, catering to a wide audience with something for everyone.

Speculation suggests that the Meta Quest 3S will include several key specifications and enhancements. With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6E, users can expect faster connections and improved gameplay experiences, crucial for popular VR games and applications like Horizon Worlds. Additionally, the new headset is expected to feature a wider field of view and a higher refresh rate, resulting in smoother graphics and more immersi ve interactions. Upgrades may also include ergonomic improvements, making it comfortable for extended use.

While details are still emerging, the Quest 3S is anticipated to harness powerful hardware, potentially leveraging the XR2 Gen chipset to support advanced VR and mixed reality applications. This could allow for enhanced graphics and overall performance, providing users with a robust gaming experience.

However, as with any new product, there are pros and cons to consider. The Meta Quest 3S may offer significant advantages such as improved graphics, fast performance, and a diverse game library. Still, potential drawbacks could include the price point, compatibility with existing accessories like the Meta Quest Link cable, and the level of mixed reality capabilities compared to premium models.

Overall, the Meta Quest 3S is poised to be a game-changer in the VR headset market. By providing a more affordable option with impressive features, it could reshape the VR landscape, making high-quality experiences more accessible and driving innovation across the industry. As we await further details, the Quest 3S is expected to become a popular vr headset. Stay tuned for more news and updates as Meta prepares to unveil this exciting new addition to their lineup.

Growing Anticipation for the Meta Quest 3S

Earlier this year, The Verge reported on a leaked internal Meta meeting, where the company’s Vice President for VR mentioned a new “accessible headset” set for a 2024 release date. This revelation sparked interest, with many speculating that the Meta Quest 3S would serve as an affordable alternative in the increasingly competitive VR market. This aligns with Meta’s strategy to offer standalone VR devices at various price points, ensuring wider accessibility without compromising performance.

In late May, a leak on the Meta app store provided another key clue, referencing the Meta Quest 3S in connection with a VR yoga app. This slip, combined with tech enthusiasts on platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) sharing renders and conceptual designs, suggests that an official unveiling is imminent.

Key Leaks and Certification Details

In September, 91 Mobiles reported on an FCC filing that hinted at the technical capabilities of the Quest 3S. While the filing did not disclose the complete specifications, it confirmed features such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6E, critical for seamless and fast connections during gaming and productivity tasks. These features indicate Meta’s focus on creating an immersive experience while retaining the affordability of the device. The potential addition of mixed reality features further solidifies the Quest 3S as a compelling option for both casual users and businesses.

Meanwhile, Meta’s recent price reduction of the Meta Quest 2 likely signals efforts to clear inventory ahead of the Quest 3S launch. For many VR enthusiasts, this move underscores Meta's commitment to innovation, paving the way for a cost-effective, high-resolution headset that could reshape expectations in the VR space.

Speculated Features and Enhancements

The Meta Quest 3S is expected to build on the strengths of its predecessor while addressing several areas of improvement. Key rumoured features include:

Meta Quest 3 compatibility with existing apps and games, ensuring continuity within the Meta ecosystem.
A Qualcomm XR2 Gen chipset for enhanced processing power, graphics, and support for mixed reality applications.
Resolution upgrades with sharper visuals and a wider field of view, ideal for immersive environments.
Camera improvements for augmented and mixed reality applications, as well as inside-out body tracking.
A redesigned head strap and optional Elite Strap for better comfort during extended sessions.
Support for accessories like the Meta Quest Link cable, enabling PC VR gaming.
Integration with the Meta Quest Store, ensuring access to many VR games and applications.

Speculation also points to potential extra storage models, addressing growing demands for storage space as games and applications increase in size. Meta may offer options with expanded storage capacity to accommodate large file sizes and additional apps, making the device suitable for power users and enterprises alike. Enhanced battery life could further improve its appeal as a versatile and standalone device.