Meta intends to launch numerous new items during their Meta Connect event in September 2024. According to speculations and leaks, a new, more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3 VR headset will be released. It will most likely be dubbed the Meta Quest 3S. Some leaks were from developers, while others were indirectly caused by Meta. However, other than establishing the product’s existence, there is little trustworthy information available. If Meta needs suggestions, I have a few!
1.Keep It Under $300
My family and I adore our Meta Quest 3, and I’m confident it’s the best VR headset available. If they’re producing a cheaper version, it should cost less than $300 USD to attract more new gamers of all ages. Many were priced out of the Quest 3. If the Quest 3S is launched before Christmas, it would be an excellent gift for anyone who already owns a gaming PC or console. The present pricing of $499.99 USD appears expensive to more experienced gamers who may spend the most money in the quest store or on games.
2.Give It a Slimmer Design (At the Expense of Reduced Battery Life)
For under $300, some compromises must be made, and the Quest 3’s battery life is the one exception. Battery life is commonly complained on VR headsets. However, my family has never had a problem with the battery life of the Quest 3. I don’t believe most people would (or should) play VR for more than two hours at a time. The Quest 3 has a long battery life and charges in 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the charger’s quality.
3.Use the Quest 3 Lenses
People desire and expect a lightweight, sleek design from their VR headsets. The Quest 2 lenses (Fresnel lenses) are curved and hence take up more space. They act similarly to a satellite dish, bouncing light to a single spot. The Quest 3 features flat lenses (Pancake lenses) that fold light rather than bounce it. They enable for a 40% thinner design. Pancake lenses are now the finest solution for VR. Even if the new device costs less than $300, asking someone to pay the price of a game system for outdated technology is unreasonable. Furthermore, if it uses Quest 2 lenses and has the weight and feel of a Quest 2, it should be called the Meta Quest 2S, in my opinion.
4.Use the Quest 3 Controllers
Meta sells the Meta Quest 2 touch controllers, Meta Quest 3 Touch Plus Controllers, and Meta Quest Touch Pro Controllers through the Meta Store. All controllers function on the Quest 2, however Quest 2 controllers are exclusive to the Quest 2. Remove the Quest 2 controllers and ship the Quest 3S with the Touch Plus Controllers. This would be especially useful for homes that currently have a Quest 2 or 3 and are thinking about getting a Quest 3S for co-op gaming. The new controllers in the house should function with both devices. Do not introduce another “special” controller that is only available with the 3S.
5.It Should Have Backwards and Forwards Compatibility
Given that buyers of the Quest 3S may already own a Quest 2 or Quest 3 headset, it’s critical that the 3S be compatible with prior Meta VR devices. New Quest 3S owners will want to play both old favorites and the trendiest new games.
According to speculations, the 3S will be as compatible as I hope, employ Quest 3 controllers, and be reasonably priced. Leaked images, albeit from unreliable sources, constantly show a hefty Quest 3S with the old Quest 2 lenses. However, I’ll hold my breath till the formal announcement! Here’s hoping my Wishlist will become a non-virtual reality.
