Rumors are swirling about the Meta Quest 3 Lite, a budget model set to replace the Quest 2, the world’s most popular VR headset. With the Quest 2 being around for four years, Meta is likely to phase it out of its lineup soon.
In October 2023, Meta launched the Quest 3, a VR headset with mixed reality features. Now, rumors suggest that a new low-cost model, the Quest 3 Lite, could be added to the lineup.
Initial rumors of the Quest 3 Lite surfaced on WeChat in October 2023, indicating that Meta might price the entry-level model as low as $199.
If these rumors hold true, Meta could introduce an entry-level Quest 3 Lite that is sold without controllers. With Meta’s excellent hand-tracking technology from the Quest 2, a Quest 3 Lite equipped with a newer processor could potentially become Meta’s first hands-only VR headset.
While some VR games support hand tracking, a majority still require controllers. Although Apple’s Vision Pro is a hands-only headset, it is unlikely that Meta would release a Quest 3 Lite without controllers.
Meta Quest 3 Lite may actually be "Meta Quest 3S"
u/LuffySanKira on Reddit shared graphics likely from a Meta User Research Zoom meeting.
While these graphics are unverified, Meta does engage in feedback sessions like this. pic.twitter.com/DjkZnVMP6b
— Luna (@Lunayian) March 16, 2024
Recent leaks suggest that Meta’s upcoming VR headset may be called the Quest 3s. Redditor LuffySanKira initially posted images but later deleted them. Luna shared the graphics on X.
The leaked images show the alleged Quest 3s with a triangular arrangement of passthrough cameras and sensors, while the Quest 3 features mixed reality sensors in three vertical lines. The Quest 3s appears more similar to the Quest 2 with a thicker body and angular design, whereas the Quest 3 has a slimmer body and a rounded, capsule-like shape.
Speculations on the authenticity of the images have arisen, suggesting they could be early mockups based on prototypes. If the Quest 3s does launch this year, Meta might announce it as early as June or during the Meta Connect event in October.
The single available image of the supposed Quest 3s reveals some details, including mentions of two configurations with storage options of 128GB or 256GB. The display resolution is expected to match that of the Quest 2, while the Quest 3 is said to feature a sharper pixel resolution. The presence of a Beat Saber logo hints at the need for controllers, as the game does not support hand tracking.
It is likely that mixed reality in color will be a feature, along with a faster processor than the Quest 2’s. The type of lenses, whether pancake or Fresnel, remain unclear.
I anticipate the Quest 3s or Quest 3 Lite to have a starting price of $299, aligning with the original Quest’s pricing. This makes it an affordable option, comparable to gaming consoles.
While the rumors and leaks are intriguing, it’s important to take them with caution. Notably, Meta recently reduced the price of the Quest 2 for the second time in three months, now selling it at an all-time low of $199.
With the 256GB version of the Quest 2 out of stock, this clearance sale might pave the way for a new budget model. The Quest 2 remains a strong VR headset, and at $199, it offers excellent value compared to the pricier Quest 3.
Support for the Quest 2 is assured until at least 2027, ensuring continued access to games and apps. If you’ve been contemplating a VR headset purchase, now is a great time to snag a classic Quest 2 at its lowest price.
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