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The Meta Quest 3: Spatial Computing and Mixed Reality Are Things Now

Meta has officially announced the launch of the Meta Quest 3. The device, dubbed the world’s first mass-market mixed reality headset by the company, is slated for release on October 10, and is available for pre-order in two storage formats: 128GB for $499.99 and a 512GB version at $649.99. Those quick to capitalize on the pre-order offer can look forward to a complimentary bundle of Asgard’s Wrath 2, with an additional six-month trial of Meta Quest+ for buyers of the 512GB model. The device’s design has a thinner profile than its predecessor and comes with customizable straps. Users can also adjust lens distances, a nod to the needs of corrective lens wearers.

The Meta Quest 3 boasts of a full-color passthrough that projects a high-fidelity view of the surroundings, allowing users to toggle between the VR realm and a mixed reality environment. The graphics are supposed to be twice as powerful as the Meta Quest 2, and the headsets is built on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform. Meta also promises a galaxy of content with over 100 new titles making their way by the end of 2023. Xbox Cloud Gaming will be available in December, which opens up a whole new range of titles, as well. But, outside of gaming, you might hear a little about something called Augments and these are mixed reality widgets, in effect, that will blend into the user’s real-world environment, something like a real-time weather notifier.

Feature CategorySpecifications/Description
Price– 128GB: $499.99 USD
– 512GB: $649.99 USD
Power– Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
– Double GPU processing power compared to Meta Quest 2
Storage– 128GB and 512GB options
Mixed Reality– 2 RGB cameras with 18 PPD
– 10X the resolution of Quest 2, 2X the resolution of Quest Pro
Audio– Integrated stereo speakers with 3D spatial audio
– 40% louder audio range
DRAM– 8GB (33% more memory compared with Meta Quest 2)
Ergonomics– Soft adjustable strap
– Depth adjustment
– Weight: 515 grams
Display & Optics Tech– Display Resolution: 2064×2208 pixels per eye
– Refresh Rate: 90Hz, 120Hz (experimental)
– Field of View: 110° horizontal, 96° vertical
– Optics: Pancake lens
– Lens adjustment: IPD 58mm-71mm
Eye Tracking– Not featured
Controllers– Streamlined, ring-free design
– TruTouch variable haptics
Experience– Mixed reality passthrough
– Direct Touch Hand Tracking
Content Library– 500+ titles
– Full access to entire catalog of Meta Quest apps
PC Support– Supported with Meta Quest Link Cable and Air Link
Charging– Battery Life: Up to 2.2 hours average, varies by use
– Charge Time: Approx. 2.3 hours with 18W power adapter
– Easy Charging with external dock (sold separately)
WiFi– Wi-Fi 6E enabled (region permitting)
Privacy– External LED for camera usage
– Advanced encryption, data sharing options, electronic disconnect, and password/PIN protection