Meta has unveiled its latest VR headset, the Quest 3, and at the forefront of the announcement is the headset’s mixed reality capabilities.
Unlike previous models, this device is tailored not just for virtual reality but for a seamless blend of digital and physical worlds. This means you can see the real world and interact with things around you while wearing the device.
Meta Quest 3 NZ release date and price
The Quest 3 is coming to NZ on October 10th and will cost NZD$929.99 for the 128GB version and $1,199 for the 512GB version.
Meta Quest 3 Specs
- Optics: The Quest 3 is equipped with ‘Pancake’ lenses, providing a 110° field of view. The adjustable lens separation varies between 58mm and 70mm. Furthermore, the device supports a range of Interpupillary Distances (IPDs) from 53mm up to 75mm. The depth adjustment feature is also present, for optimizing visual comfort and clarity.
- Display: The Quest 3 boasts an LCD setup, offering a resolution of 2064×2208 pixels per eye. The device operates at a max refresh rate of 120Hz. It’s worth noting that the Quest 3 does not have a local dimming feature.
- Performance: The Meta Quest 3 is driven by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset. This is complemented by 8GB of RAM, ensuring the technical capabilities to handle demanding applications.
- Connectivity: The device supports 6GHz Wi-Fi
- Additional Features: The Quest 3’s Passthrough feature has True Color and High-Resolution capabilities. Additionally, depth sensing is integrated into the device.
- Power: The battery is housed within the visor, and users can anticipate a battery life that ranges between 1.5 to 3 hours on a full charge.
- Controllers: The Quest 3 will be accompanied by the Touch Plus controllers, which are distinguishable by their ringless design and the inclusion of TruTouch Haptics.
Meta Quest 3 Improvements
The Quest 3 offers double the graphic processing power over its predecessor, the Quest 2. This can be attributed to the headset’s Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform. Developed in partnership with Qualcomm Technologies, the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform is more powerful, meaning better-looking games, seamless navigation, and better battery life.
Like the Quest 2, the Quest 3 is an autonomous headset. It does not require a PC, console, or external battery pack. It operates independently. Its spatial awareness allows users to interact with their physical environment, blurring the lines between the virtual and real.
One of the main standouts here is the dual full-colour cameras at the front of the device. These are capable of enhanced passthrough video quality, underscored by Qualcomm’s claim that the XR2 Gen 2 can achieve an average passthrough latency of 12 milliseconds. With improved passthrough capabilities, users not only can immerse themselves entirely in VR, but they can also opt for a “blended” experience that overlays digital content onto the real world.
Transitioning between these settings is intuitive. Besides using the controller, a simple double-tap gesture on the side of the headset will change mode.
Meta Quest 3 Gaming
Meta claims over 100 new or enhanced titles will be rolled out for the Quest 3 this year alone, with many harnessing the power of mixed reality.
In addition, the Quest 3 boasts backwards compatibility, ensuring enthusiasts have access to an extensive library of more than 500 VR and MR experiences right from the outset.
There’s also support for the upcoming integration of Xbox Cloud Gaming this December, allowing iconic titles like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5 to be experienced on a portable 2D platform within the headset.
Meta Quest 3 controllers
The Quest 3’s Touch Plus controllers utilize infrared sensors for positional tracking, having removed the traditional tracking ring. These controllers also feature advanced haptic feedback for improved in-game vibrations. Additionally, the Quest 3 offers hand tracking, allowing users an alternative to using controllers.