Meta, previously known as Facebook Reality Labs, launched the Quest Pro as a professional XR (Extended Reality) headset. While the device had some notable merits, such as a semi-open design for mixed reality applications, excellent Touch Pro controllers, and state-of-the-art lenses in a standalone VR/AR headset, it also faced several shortcomings. Among these were the subpar colored pass-through feature and the uncomfortable head mount, making it less competitive in the top-tier headset category. Additionally, the initial price of $1,500 was seen as quite steep.
Within a few months of its release, Meta decided to lower the price to $1,000, which coincided with the announcement of the Quest 3, promising significant improvements. This move suggested that the Quest Pro might not have a long product life, and indeed, recent reports indicate that Meta will not be ordering new components for the Quest Pro, leading to its discontinuation.
It appears that Meta is shifting its focus away from the high-end VR market, including the suspension of development for a second-generation Quest Pro. Instead, the company intends to concentrate on more affordable headsets in the Quest series. The Quest 3, set to launch in October, boasts superior specs compared to the Quest Pro, with higher resolution, more RGB cameras, and the same exceptional lenses.
While some virtual reality enthusiasts may be concerned about Meta’s decision to abandon the high-end market, the Quest platform’s success has largely been driven by providing a well-balanced and powerful VR headset at an affordable price. Meta’s expensive research in this area has been a source of hope for VR enthusiasts, especially when other manufacturers have struggled to match the quality of Meta’s headsets.
One possible reason for discontinuing the Quest Pro and stepping back from high-end VR is that Meta may not want to directly compete with Apple’s Vision Pro, which is attempting to enter the high-end market. However, even with the Quest Pro’s initial attempt at a high-end series, certain issues were not adequately addressed, leading to doubts about the viability of such a product line.
As a result, Meta’s decision to focus on more budget-friendly headsets like the Quest 3 might be a strategic move to cater to a wider consumer base and maintain its competitive edge against other companies. The future impact on Meta’s research into better VR/AR headsets, including those with varifocal displays and retinal resolution, remains to be seen. For now, it seems that Meta’s priorities lie in delivering improved VR experiences at a more accessible price point.